Svana had taught the others to collect sap and boil it down, but that supply too was exhausted. The men hunted every day, but game too was diminished. Mostly they survived on flour made from the inner bark of a tree and fish from the freezing ocean. Vakr had decided to take their vessel and head downstream with twenty men to see if they could find a new home. Svana was waiting patiently in Helga’s hut for him to return. It had been a surprise to Svana how fast she had gotten used to the village and the people. She had made friends who came to visit during the long days. At night, Vakr’s arms embraced her in safety while they were warmed by their lovemaking and the heat of the fire’s flames. Vakr was so strong and he was so tender and gentle. The feel of his hands on her bare skin was intoxicating and if all she ever had was flour and fish, it would be fine if she was with him. In truth, she was in love with Vakr. Oddly enough her brother seemed happy as well and resigned to the fact he was soon to be married.
