The Blue River

The Blue River is both a landmark in the mountains and the route along which Tiuri and Piak begin to part after visiting Menaures. Its surroundings connect Tiuri’s memory of the hermit with Piak’s familiarity with the mountain paths and the sadness of their farewell.

The River and Menaures’s Refuge

Tiuri recognizes Menaures as the hermit who lives by the source of the Blue River. Later, as Tiuri and Piak approach the hut, Piak greets the familiar places with delight, but grows quieter near home. Menaures has anticipated their arrival; after speaking with them, he goes outside and leaves the door open, as he had on their previous visit.

The Road Along the River

After Tiuri takes leave of Menaures and receives his blessing, Piak accompanies him along the Blue River. The friends speak little, subdued by the separation ahead. Near the gorge where Jaro had nearly fallen, Tiuri stops and points out that Piak should turn back in time to reach the hut before dark. Piak hesitates and offers to accompany him farther, perhaps as far as Dagonaut City.