Gunk (Part 2)

Astra headed for the river, in a search for water. The waxy tar, besides keeping off the gnats and effectively hiding her identity, was thick enough to offer some protection for her bare feet and legs. As she shambled toward the river, her coat of black gunk did pick up dirt and plant litter.

The gnats were as thick by the river as they were on the beach. Astra asked herself, "Why didn't the gnats bite me as I was floating down?" The best answer that she could come up with was that the veil and long sleeves of her wardrobe protected her.

Astra was glad to get to the river. Her eyes were having trouble keeping their focus, and she was dizzy. She recognized the early symptoms of heat stroke. The gunk was dark, absorbing heat, and it interfered with ability to sweat and cool off. She hoped that the water would be fresh enough to be potable. She cupped her hands in the river, brought them to her lips, and gulped. The water had a peculiar taste, but she was not surprised, given the land through which it flowed.

Her thirst slaked, she wondered where to go now. She could go up river. She would have water, and hoped there were berries or some source of food near the banks. She did notice that there was a heavy traffic of gulls between this beach and some point toward the west. Astra guessed that the gulls may only be roosting or nesting here. As they did not seem to be diving for the gnats like the gnatcatchers did, so there did not seem to be much food here for them. Perhaps the gulls had found food and water somewhere else? Perhaps scraps left out by men? Going west would be the riskier course, though, as that would involve a departure from the river and a reliable water source.

Astra decided to

1. follow the river.
2. follow the gulls.

Add New Option

Go Back

View Forward Story Tree
View Back Story Tree