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Chapter 16

“I am sorry. I…” Soaring Hawk suddenly felt like that young boy hiding in the bushes watching as Lean Bear offered himself to the men of the village. He could feel his cheeks getting warm.

“No matter,” Lean Bear said, walking back to where Soaring Hawk stood. “I knew you were there. It didn’t bother me. It’s something all boys do. It’s how they learn of such things. But if you would rather, come, let us go inside.”

Lean Bear led the way into his small lodge. Soaring Hawk took a deep breath and followed. Once inside, he let his eyes get accustomed to the semi-darkness. There was no fire in the pit, as it was summer and Lean Bear fixed his meals outdoors. The only light came from the smoke hole in the roof. Soaring Hawk felt his heart beat harder against his chest; his hands were wet with sweat. It ran down his sides as well. His moment of truth was at hand.