CHAPTER 19Runtu stared at the pile of bowls and the basin of now lukewarm water as she almost slammed the last ones down in front of Quwan. "I'm sick of it," she muttered. "If it wasn't for us we'd probably all be dead by now and how do they repay us!" She flung her arms out. "Told we can't help dig us out as we're too weak and would only slow everyone down. So when we ask how we can help we're told to get the fire going, heat up some water and wash the dishes."
"Well it has helped, Runtu," Quwan replied. She could see why the adults refused their offer to help dig but also commiserated with her friend. "We've finished now so let's go and explore."
Runtu stared at her. "Those side caves we were told to stay out of?"
"That or the far end of this main cave."
"I didn't think you'd be inte
