the children. Know what you are fighting against. These are large, strong creatures but they can be killed!'

Katya walked away from the crowd. He walked to the edge of the camp and looked at the distant snowcapped mountains. He wanted to get away from all the people and just think. Something had changed in him after shooting the man eater. He wasn't quite sure what.

He understood that the menace had become real, now. There really were these dangerous creatures and they had finally started coming to Katya's land. What would tomorrow be like? Will the tribe have to live with this ever-present danger for the rest of their lives? Katya sighed. The uncertainty was disheartening.

'Hey!' said Kiara behind him. He looked at her a little surprised.

She gave himsafe to use the ford. I want to be sure that the village is empty,' said Atuqtuaq.

'Can Ukik come with us?' asked Orinon, looking worried.

'He has to stay here to protect the group in case of an attack. As do I.'

Katya was thoughtful. 'What if there are people in the village?'

'Everyone left two years back. There won't be people there,' his father answered.

Orinon chewed his nails. 'What if it's not... not... safe?'

'Then we have to go down south along the river and search for a crossing. It's going to be a far longer route.'

'If the village looks empty should we search it for tools and guns?' asked Katya.

Orinon looked at Katya amazed. Why would his brother want to do such a stupid thing?

'No, don't. Just watch from a