void. Knowing that Ken wasn’t big on outward shows of emotion, Runner didn’t comment on the wistful expression on Ken’s face. Instead he concentrated on the fine Sunday meal that Doreen had made and talked about ordinary things. All the while, the joy in his heart grew as he felt his family drawing nearer to Pringle. He prayed that they hurried.
*****
That night, Reckless sat by a small fire that he’d built away from the main fire in their camp. He stared at the fire, letting the flames work their magic. Their sinuous movements and crackling sounds were hypnotic and he was usually able to enter into a trance by concentrating on them. He’d asked Mike to chant softly for him and had taken a small amount of datura. He wasn’t seeking a big vision, but he wanted to speak with Runner. The datura would allow him to invade Runner’s mind. Mike acted as the tribe’s medicine man, having trained as a youth under their previous medicine man, White Horse. He’d assisted Reckless with visions many times. Watching Reckless’ eyes drift closed, Mike felt the familiar prickle along his shoulders as power swirled around his cousin and Reckless’ spirit lifted.
Reckless called out several times for Runner as he sat alone at a campfire. Soon Runner walked into the firelight and sat down next to him. “Hau, cousin,” Reckless said. “Hau. You will soon be here,” Runner said, sensing Reckless’ irritation. “What troubles you?” “Nothing that involves you,” Reckless said. “Where will we find you?” “There is a little town called Pringle near the Wa-shun Wakan. In two days I will meet you at the general store there.” Runner smiled. “I am very excited to see everyone. I can feel my father.” His smile faded. “What has caused so much turmoil in your heart? Are you sure that I cannot help you?” Reckless shook his head. “It is something that no one can help me with. I must decide this thing on my own. I am angry, confused, and hurt, and I am not sure how to resolve it all.” Runner grunted understandingly. “Brown Stag would tell you to be still and listen to what your true heart is telling you. I do not presume to tell such a powerful dreamer what to do, but I will just remind you to let your soul see the Red Road and follow it. Let everything else fall away so that you can see the right path.” Reckless smiled. “You have learned well. I know that your advice comes from a good place and not one of conceit. Thank you. We will see you in two days’ time.” He held out an arm to Runner, who took it. As they grasped arms, light flooded Reckless’ vision and he dropped back into himself.
*****
Jaylyn walked down by the stream they’d camped next to, watching the moonlight on the water. They would reach their homestead the next day. Their new friends would leave them there and go on their way. It surprised her how quickly she’d become attached to them and she would miss them dearly. She didn’t know how she and Peanut would make out with selling the claim. It should bring a fair price, so they’d have money to live on for a while. Maybe they would settle in Rapid City. She was sure to find work and suitable lodging there. Setting up a house again didn’t appeal to her and she wasn’t looking forward to meeting new people. Jaylyn knew that the depression that threatened to consume her was the cause of her