"He must go some time. I am willing," she answered simply.
"Hawk Eye goes with you?" asked Black Eagle.
"He is now asking permission of his mother," replied Raven Wing.
"When do you plan to go?" inquired Bending Willow.
"At once," said Raven Wing.
"That is wise," said Black Eagle. "The boys will easily catch up to the hunters if they ply their paddles with vigor." He did not add that there was safety in numbers, not wishing to needlessly alarm Bending Willow. He could see that she was concerned over the adventure, although she tried to hide her feelings.
The matter being settled, Raven Wing strode over to Hawk Eye's lodge. Since the death of Running Deer, Hawk Eye had taken his father's place with credit. Being two years older than Raven Wing, he naturally had had more experience. Notwithstanding his advantage, in age he was no taller nor stronger than the younger boy.
As Raven Wing neared the tepee, he heard Hawk Eye's mother, Light Between Clouds, say in a low voice;
"You are my only support since the death of Running Deer."