62 Weary

I'm so tired of being mauled by mountain cats. This is the third time and I want it to be the last.
The wounds are invariably deep and infected. I hate it. I want out of this territory as quickly as possible. 
"We eat then we move. Hao Yang  please wrap this shoulder of mine well, I can't afford to leave a trail of blood scent." I looked at the jerkin, " burn this. Xin, get me my spare one from my bundle." Turning my head to look at Hao Yang , "yes to the idea of thick shoulder and upper chest protection, this mustn't happen to any of you." He nodded and continued dealing with the wound. " It can't be stitched. All you can do is clean it, cauterise it as best you can and wrap it tightly."
As I said it, the searing pain ran down my back and I arched in response.
"Sorry, it must hurt but bear with me, one more.." and with that he touched my back again with the red hot blade. I could have screamed but didn't want to attract any unwanted attention.
He applied powder and then bandaged. "I'll redo this tonight. You sleep with me, I want to keep an eye on this." I nodded, relieved someone was taking charge for once.
"Everyone, get the fire ready for cooking. Let's get whatever we've got done, eaten and on our way. We'll move down from this area to the route the train is taking. In the long run it'll be faster and easier." He looked around, " everyone clear? Good. Niao and I will be up front and set the pace. You three come next and do you soldiering duties of look out. Xin? You at the back?" She nodded, " right, food, clear, go, understand?"
Everyone nodded. I was glad to be leaving this godforsaken area. I looked at Hao Yang  and smiled, 'he's certainly my rock.'

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