Two Old Women

The two women are enjoying a comfortable night in their shelter and discussing how much they miss The People. Their bitterness has dissipated, but they still look at each other in fear when they hear Daagoo call their names from a distance. The women decide to reveal themselves immediately. Sa’ tells Ch’idzigyaak to “be prepared for anything […] [e]ven death” (98). Sa’ calls out in the dark to Daagoo. When Daagoo and the search party approach, the two women are brandishing spears and scowls. Daagoo assures them they will be protected as he admires their newfound strength. The women notice how gaunt the men are and invite them in for “dried fish” and “boiled rabbit broth” (102). The men are thankful and amazed at how much healthier the old women are.  Ch’idzigyaak is unforgiving and does nothing but stare angrily and “grunt” (103) at the unwanted visitors. Sa’, on the other hand, reacts much more peacefully to their presence. Daagoo apologizes for the way they were treated, but the women are not so easily coddled. They demand to know what will prevent the same scenario from reoccurring. Daagoo promises them that if The Chief were to make a similar decision in the future, he would “protect [them] with my own life as long as I live” (105).