Summary

Niska's first person narration takes over this chapter as night falls and she carries the heated stones into the shelter. She wakes Xavier up and helps him remove his clothing by the river. Niska then removes her clothing and leads him inside the shelter. Once they are ready, Niska closes the flap tightly for complete darkness. She then talks to Xavier, telling him that she is glad he is here and to tell her if it becomes unbearable in the shelter. Niska acknowledges the four seasons, the earth, the sun, the sky, and the moon. She thanks Gitchi Manitou for Xavier's return then opens herself up the spirits.

Niska knows that Xavier will have trouble hearing her so she does not feel the need to speak loud. In the first round, the heat is relaxing. As she sprinkles water on the rocks, Niska...