THE BLUE FEATHER THE BLUE FEATHER | Page 85

76 JUAN FRANCISCO BLANCO “Yes, the air smells bad, and makes me feel weak. But, the falling rocks may hit my people, and kill many if we leave the cave,” Trall said worriedly. “You and your people need to trust us. Help us carry the supplies we brought with us, and we will be able to shelter everyone from the falling rocks. How many people do you have in your village?” Tital asked. “We have a total of thirteen hundred and forty-three people,” Trall informed them. “Here is how we will have to do it to keep your people safe. You will lead them, and after one hundred and seventy follow, then Viviana will go out, then after another three hundred and fifty, I will go out, then another three hundred and fifty of your people, Bardala will come out, and then another three hundred and fifty villagers, then Jonathan, with the rest of the villagers to follow. How close is the ocean, and do you have enough boats for your entire village?” Tital asked. “It will take us two days to reach the Vedú Ocean, with all the women and young children. We will have to stop often to find food to eat, and to rest along the way,” Trall said. Just then a small earthquake shook everyone, and Trall said, “We only have enough boats for one in five of my people. It will take many days to build more, but there are plenty of good trees. Help me to the front of the cave, and I will lead my people to safety.” “Viviana, I want you to think of a big umbrella to cover the villagers, then I will do the same when I leave. Jonathan and Bardala, both of you do the same. From our map’s information, we will be heading towards the east. We should pick up some unpolluted air blowing in from the ocean soon, or we are going to have to call on some more Spirits,” Tital said.