Son of an Indian brave and a white captive, Soaring Hawk is raised in the native customs. As he grows into manhood, he discovers his desire for the love of men. Knowing the fate of those of ‘two spirits’ within his tribe, he leaves the Indian village, disguises his heritage, and enters the white man’s world as Samuel Hawkins. He soon discovers life is difficult for a man who prefers men. While he finds companionship, and forms bonds with many of the men he meets, he is unable to find a relationship which satisfies his deepest need. He also discovers much of what is in the world outside his village conflicts with the values of his native upbringing. He embarks on an odyssey which takes him across the continent and into the arms and beds of many lovers. As he travels, he comes to realize love has many forms. But the one he seeks most continually eludes him. Where will his odyssey lead him? Will he ever come to the end of his search for Soaring Hawk?

The Search for Soaring Hawk

Wolf interjected himself between the man and the beast. He was growling more fiercely than Soaring Hawk had ever heard him before. He launched himself at the attacking animal, sinking his teeth into its flesh just above the shoulder. The bear bellowed in pain, and once more rose up to its full height. In doing so, he dislodged Wolf, flinging him some distance, where he landed with a dull thud on the rocky river bank. Wolf did not move. The bear dropped again to all fours and ran toward the motionless dog.


Soaring Hawk got up. He ran at the invader, yelling as loudly as he could, snatching up and throwing rocks as he did so. Another voice joined his. Turning his head in surprise, he saw a young man running nimbly over the stony ground. He was also shouting and throwing rocks at the bear. The beast raised himself, roaring defiantly, but then, seeming to sense danger, turned and ran off.


Soaring Hawk rushed to the fallen dog. “S’unka, S’unka!”


Chapter 104