Azaria by J.H. Hayes Page B

my family. We are hungry."
    Azaria sat back as he took control, gratified she'd decided to accompany them to the Feast. Grayfoot loped up, wagging his tail furiously and circling his human pack. She was happy to see him. "Where have you been, boy?" she repeated her usual refrain, crouching down and scratching behind his ears and around the neck, letting him lick her chin, but taking care not to let him smear the coloring her mother had applied to her cheeks and eyes. "Out with your friends? You always come when I need you, though." His attention was welcome at the moment. He didn't care if she jumped off High Cliff. He loved her no matter what she did.
    Azerban's intimidating display was enough to shame most of the spectators for the moment. The crowd dispersed, except for some of the children who hung around, unconvinced Azaria wouldn't take off into the air at any moment, intent not to miss it again.
    She put her arm around her father's waist and he wrapped one arm around her shoulders, enclosing her protectively. "Thank you, father."
    "I'm happy you waited for us, this was worse than I imagined. Perhaps you should stay close for the night."
    "Okay, father... It's probably a good idea."
    They made their way to the feasting tables where they helped themselves. The offerings were impressive. A large boar was roasting over an open pit. All cuts of savory aurochs meat were laid out, as well as dishes containing duck, geese, fish and wild sheep, surrounded by greens, roasted nuts and fruit. Azaria's family plus Daneel ate together, laughing at how crazy everyone had been acting. Azaria recounted the full story leading up to her decision to make the jump. She told them how wonderful a runner Yumineh was and of how she'd taunted her. She also admitted to how badly she felt for the other girl, because she deserved to win the race.
    Daneel had been caught off guard earlier back at their shelter, when Azaria had explained the drastic measure she took because she didn't want to lose to Yumineh. She’d had fun reacquainting herself with the Fox Camp girl the previous night. She couldn’t imagine where the rivalry had come from. But now that she heard how Yumineh had behaved, she was even more surprised. No wonder Azaria wanted to beat her. And why would Yumineh act like that? Why did she turn the competition into a personal grudge match? She could hardly believe it. Yumineh seemed to be such a sweet girl. Maybe she's just very competitive.
    Shortly after they finished their meal and as the sun's light began to dim, Fahim and Takur, the elderly Ta'araki co-leaders, came out of their shelter and appeared ready to address the crowd. Takur wore dress covered with brown and black vulture feathers. Fahim donned a similar outfit, except the tips of many of the feathers had been dyed a rich red. Azaria was dreading this part of the Feast.
    "Children of the Ta'ar!" Fahim began, her frail, creaking voice replaced by a rich, commanding tone. "This has been an extraordinary Solstice. We give thanks to the Ta'ar for this bountiful Feast. We give thanks to our glorious competitors for their bravery and sacrifice. We honor all who participated. Children of the Ta'ar, acknowledge your brave competitors." Roars of acclamation emanated from the crowd. Fahim was a master at manipulating the audience. "We witnessed an exciting and unusual Long Run competition this sun. It was a trial filled with courage and fortitude - a contest which destiny has fulfilled."
    Azerban’s ears perked. What was she talking about? What destiny?
    “We ask that the three top contestants come forward for recognition. Dogahn! Yumineh! And Azaria! Come forward!"
    The crowd erupted when Azaria's name was called. Some of the children looked up to the sky, expecting her to swoop down upon them. She wanted to turn and run, but hands at her back forced her toward the front. Azerban tried to push forward when he saw the crush of people surrounding her, but his attempts were stymied