Chapters 16 and 17 Summary

Chapter sixteen: After Jantu is taken back to the base camp, Mother does what she can to treat her wound, but the bullet remains inside her body and there is little that can help. Jantu is made comfortable, and Dara spends the night with her, begging the magic marble for one more gift. The next morning, Dara tries to convince Jantu that she will get better, but is met with stony resistance. Meanwhile, Sarun prepares to participate in the military demonstration, insisting that Nea and Mother come along. Dara insists upon remaining with Jantu, who has Sarun move her to an outdoor hammock before he goes. Dara and Jantu listen to the sound of the demonstration, and to the political/militaristic speeches coming over the loudspeaker, Jantu commenting bitterly on the foolishness of those fighting the war. Dara tries to convince...