Julia G Millan
2024
The tribe moved slowly, forming a row across the steppe. The chief, always at the front, walked with his eyes fixed on the horizon, carrying his weapons: two acacia wood spears with flint tips bound with hemp fibres, another two made of yew wood, two sharp knives crafted from buffalo ribs, and a pair of hand axes also made of flint. The man immediately behind him marched at a short distance, carrying similar gear and dragging a heavy bundle of hides with some belongings. Beyond them, three women walked in single file, though close together. All three held babies in one arm, while with the other hand they held onto other children. Following them were two young women without children, and the emaciated procession was closed by three men, two of whom were engaged in conversation. There could be a distance of about one hundred steps between the chief and the last individual. The midday sun beat down mercilessly on their heads, causing them to take off their hides and tie them around their waists. All individuals were marching naked except for their loincloths; even the women, save one that remained dressed despite the heat. Vultures circled above in silence, sensing the tribe’s imminent demise. Only the cries of the children seemed to disturb the stillness of the summer afternoon. However, they were not alone. Up there, on the pinnacle of the rocky spire shaped by the wind over ages, two other men watched them closely. “It’s Samman. I have no doubt,” one of them said, while the other nodded. “Why have they returned?” the latter asked. “They found no game, Tabal. The southern lands must be even dryer.” The two fell silent for a moment and continued observing. “Why are they so scattered? If wild beasts attacked them, they’d be lost.” “They’re exhausted,” replied Unnum. “They don’t care anymore. Better to die quickly than be devoured by hunger and thirst.” The boy watched the tribe’s slow and listless walk, and the bowed heads confirmed what the leader had said. He added,
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