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Show 97 With Toho on one side and Mongwi on the other, Chua stumbled out into the sunshine. When Chua had his balance, Mongwi let go of him and picked up two small tightly rolled bundles. "I have woven new sleeping blankets for both of you," Mongwi said. "Toho's is for his trip to the Great Painted Canyons, and Chua's is for saving Sihu's life." He put his hand on Chua's shoulder. "I'm grateful," he said. "Thank you," Chua said, taking the bedroll. He didn't stiffen this time. "Travel safely, my son," Mongwi said to Toho. "I will, Father." "I have made plenty of com cakes for you," Pavati said. She handed him a pouch. "You will need to gather pine nuts as you climb into the Great Painted Canyons. The weather is cold enough now that the cones have dropped off the trees." "You can find sticks to get fresh rabbit to roast over the fire," Mongwi said. "Chew the stalk of the yucca if you do not find water. It will refresh you." "I wish Chua were going with you," Pavati said. "The desert is a dangerous place for a child alone." "He's not a child," Mongwi said. "He has lived twelve summers." "I know that, but I worry," Pavati said. "Just be watchful and safe." "Don't worry, Grandmother," Toho said. "I'll be safe." He smiled. "Maybe I > can talk Chua into coming with me." Chua shook his head. "I can't. I must stay with my mother." |