First, Best and Always

Chapter 44 - Intervention

The mood at the Andrew’s house was somber. Standing Elk was seated in front of the fireplace deep in thought. Aaron was standing on the porch watching the night sky. There was something uneasy, restless in the air and everyone felt it. The twins were unusually quiet, preparing dinner for the family with little or no conversation passing between them. Brandon, always the optimistic one, was scared; he too felt the restless movement that seemed to surround the house. Felt it and prayed that it was not what he thought it was. Aaron entered the house and seated himself at his father’s feet. The elder Andrews looked tired, haggard as if all the strength had been drawn out of him. Looking deep into his oldest son’s eyes he said what they had all been dreading.

“Bring me my things from the attic, and tell your brothers to prepare the sweat lodge.”

Aaron shook his head, “No Pop, I know what you’re thinking, and it’s too dangerous.”

Standing Elk gazed at his son lovingly and spoke again, “What would you have me do?” “The boy isn’t strong enough, he will need a guide, his spirit cannot make this journey alone.”

Just then Brandon spoke up from the corner, “But it doesn’t have to be you Pop, let someone else do it.”

But Standing Elk would not be dissuaded. “I’ve known this child since before the day he and his brother were born, felt their spirits even then.” “There is no one who knows him better than me, no one.” “Besides, you know as I do that it has to be someone he knows, he will not follow a stranger.” “Please son…do as an old man asks, there isn’t much time…”