Summary

In Chapter 21, the companions set up camp. The men catch and cook fish. Deng and Mary share their story with the others. Deng, a doctor, inspects Fatima's scar, praising Vikram's stitches. Fatima explains what happened to their ship, how she almost died. They all wonder if any others on the ships survived. Hassan appears with a chest of beautiful garments. Mary, a former washerwoman, says she will clean and repair them. The others ask Fatima to help draw water; she laments having to work as king. Vikram appears while she is out. He tells her the island changes with its inhabitants' needs.

As time passes, each member of the group finds her respective role. They grow close and bask in their peace. One day, others begin arriving as Deng and Mary suggested. The island shows itself to those in need. Fatima and her...