NYR Page 17

I looked at Running Bear for some sort of assurance that he knew which path to follow. Surely we would take up the trail taken by Spring Salmon?

But Running Bear was walking back and forth, his head in his hands, muttering to himself. It was quickly apparent to me that he did not know which trail to take, nor did he appear to be able to make a decision.

I looked at the ground but as usual, it held no answers. I looked to the skies and there I found the answer I sought for there soared my eagle.

The eagle circled lazily above, enjoying the wind currents high above. Yet each time I had seen him, he had given me guidance when I needed it. Perhaps he would do so once more.

I gazed at him as he circled high above, wondering what his purpose was. Slowly the circles became tighter and lower until at last it became obvious he was looking for something. Finally he flew off, taking a path somewhat more northward than we had been traveling.

I grabbed Running Bear and pointed to the disappearing eagle. He looked at me curiously, unsure of my meaning. I searched my memory for the proper word, one Wise Owl had used for the eagle. Finally it came to me and I used the word for totem.

Running Bear’s eyes lit with hope and a smile crossed his face for the first time since the attack. He nodded once and, without hesitation, resumed his furlong-eating stride in the direction the eagle had traveled.

I marveled at his lack of doubt that this was the correct path. Prior to my arrival in the village I would not have followed some random animal yet now it seemed like the proper path. I hurried to catch up with Running Bear. Our decision was made, this would be the group we pursued.