Later that evening, pushing through the busy chatter of the camp, Val jumped up on a log and whistled to get everyone’s attention. The camp quieted, drawing their attention to the Zop leader. “Hey everyone,” Val called out. “We need to have a discussion. Come, gather around the fire,” he continued to announce. “Those who have cooking duties can sit this pow-wow out.” I could see how everyone looked up to him. His towering stance emphasized his competence. The very way he stood there told me he was a man of admiration. This was where he belonged.
I combed over the camp trying to spot other Zops. They were easy to pick. They carried a particular aura, a blue or purple. Val’s aura flurried in a deep blue and red mixture. Funny, I didn’t see any signs of his men. Since I was considered impure
