The sun hung high over the primitive settlement, casting long, amber shadows across the dusty path as Manu and Fuyu trudged back toward the cluster of huts. The day's labor had been grueling, but while Fuyu seemed revitalized by some internal, secret purpose, Manu was eager for the boisterous company of his peers. Near the center of the village, they encountered a group of young men lounging by the communal well.
"Hey, Manu! Fuyu! Join us," Ron called out, waving a half-eaten fruit. "We're heading down to the stream to see if the girls are finishing their wash."
Manu's eyes lit up, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten at the prospect of juvenile mischief. He looked to his brother, but Fuyu's expression remained a mask of cool indifference. "I'll pass," Fuyu said, his voice level. "I'm tired. I'm heading back to the hut."
