Yon Interloper 16

Arlis and Grunt left shortly after breakfast for all humans dog and pups.Otherwise the young man could not have slipped up unaware.In the day to day security Of uneventfulness and the nipping yipping of the half wolf pups claiming hierchical place he walked right into the cave. Long needing a good hot meal his face was drawn and measured as he looked warily about.Francie saw him first as she returned from the spring with water for clearing dishes.Don't worry,I won't harm you he told her as she caught her breath.Even heavily pregnant she really didn't think him capable As he was very weak .His manner hesitant as to if he should turn and go knowing this was his last stand.Stand or fall he could do no more,go no further. As they stood staring at each other he collapsed in the caves entrance. When Suzanne and Donny returned from the spring where they had been racing boats Francie had already dragged the young man in and was trying to get him to drink water as he was very dehydrated offering sips she would Intersperse with grains of sea salt upon his tongue to aid in it's absorption. The girls softly talked among themselves of what they ought to do.They had many times spoke of safeguarding their home from invaders but never had this Situation been covered. As frail and ill as this young man was you could as easily turn away a child.He lacked mobility as well .He was just here and that was that.Arlis would know what to do.For now they would try to alleviate his suffering. Shortly before sundown Arlis returned with a brace of pheasants and a curiously Unalarmed Grunt at his side.She walked over to the sleeping man sniffed at him thoroughly then went to her pups who riotously greeted her. Suzanne boiled one bird and roasted the rest preparing a simple dressing she baked fireside.As the aroma of the evening meal filled the caves front gallary the visitor stirred. You are o.k. Arlis assured him as he wild eyed took in all gathered around .Drink this broth Francie said offering him a cup.He did drink both broth and spring water and fell back to a dreamless sleep.All reserves utilized for survival. Later he woke to tell them he had not eaten for days and after drinking bad water had been very ill .Suzanne gave him tea from wild blackberry leaves to stop the diahrea and he thanked them repeatedly for the mercy they were showing this stranger who uninvited had appeared in their midst. You sleep now friend,he was answered in return.Just rest please .Sleep .