14 THE FLOCK

CHAPTER 14 THE FLOCK Brightbill had been the leader of the flock ever since his first migration. The geese followed him because they trusted him, and he hoped they'd trust him one last time. "The flock needs to leave," said Brightbill to the other geese. "We've all seen the damage done by the poison tide, and the situation is only getting worse. I think it's best if you find a safer place to live."

The geese glanced at each other, unsure what to say. And then Loudwing spoke up. "What about you, Brightbill? It doesn't sound like you're going anywhere." "My mother and my friends are trapped on this island," said Brightbill. "So I will stay and help them as best I can. But the rest of you should leave."

Glimmer turned to her mate. "Brightbill, you know I'd never leave you and Roz behind. If you're staying, I'm staying." "I'm staying too!" said Loudwing as she waddled over to join Glimmer and Brightbill. Before long, a whole gaggle of geese had joined their leader, committed to staying with him, no matter what. However, not everyone joined. Five other geese were huddled close, whispering. And then a goose named Finefeather stood tall. "There's nothing any of us can do about the poison tide," she said. "We've decided to take Brightbill's advice and leave." The two groups of geese faced each other. For generations, through grueling journeys and harsh weather, their flock had been united. The members had changed, the times had changed, but the flock had always held together. Until now. "Where will you go?" said Brightbill. "We'll fly over the ocean to the mainland," said Finefeather. "And we'll find a lake or a river where we can start a new life." "Good luck to you," said Brightbill. "May the wind be at your tails." Finefeather took a deep breath. Then she beat her wings and led her small flock of geese into the sky.