Chapter 18, Spin Gul Summary

Shabanu safely leads the women through the night. Phulan is distraught, worrying over her ruined wedding, and afraid for her future family. Mama tries to comfort her. As they continue on, Mithoo catches up with them, having broken away from the camel herd. He is nearly grown now.

Things get worse. They run out of water. Then Shabanu hears a shot. Her first instinct is to get away, but they are overcome. Fortunately, it turns out to be Desert Rangers. They have a message that the women should return to Mehrabpur. Mama believes it's a trick by Nazir, and she refuses to go. They are under the protection of the rangers, who provide water and tents. Auntie lies down without complaining, and Shabanu thinks something must be wrong with her. After some time, Dadi and Murad arrive, stained with...