Chapter 67

These were the points of contention that strained Mason's friendship with Osmond. The strength of their relationship, however, outweighed their differences. Osmond's family had gathered in his tent to have a meal, and Mason, his daughter, was there to see it all.

They sat on mats next to Osmond's extended family, which included his mother's wife, three older uncles, five younger siblings, and three children, all of whom were there. They were served supper by Osmond's wife, Helena, and his aunt. It was a strong family, not as large as some others, but full of life and vitality.

Osmond and Mason's father had passed away some years before. As the oldest of the family, Osmond was the one to bestow the blessing. Their supper consisted of meat, river fish, potatoes and maize cooked in a variety of ways, as well as fresh water from a nearby source, which they shared.

Only Mason had the good sense to make a joke about the lavish festival dinner in front of him as he ate his way t