People of the Thunder(163)

Heron Wing blinked. It was masterfully done. A complete defusing of tensions. She stared helplessly at Morning Dew. Are you the same woman I once washed?

Old White glanced at the shocked chiefs and stated, “Hickory Moiety, and the Chief Clan, can feed them if no one else will.” He clapped his hands. “Besides, there is enough wood in that fallen palisade to make a spectacular bonfire!” Old White laid a familiar hand on Great Cougar’s shoulder. “Now, about this tooth.” He pulled the walrus tusk from his pack. “It’s more than fair Trade for that spectacular cup of yours. This comes from the far north, from a beast . . .”

Heron Wing didn’t hear the rest as Morning Dew reached down and helped her to her feet. “Forgive me, my friend,” she whispered into Heron Wing’s ear. “It was the only way.”