In Chapter 1 of 'Fiela se Kind,' Elias van Rooyen ceases his efforts in chopping

yellowwood beams due to an intense fog engulfing the Forest (Bos). Unlike his diligent
woodcutters, Elias appreciates preserving his energy and attributes any
accomplishment to good planning and fortune, both of which were rare in the Bos.
Discovery of a wagon parked by the highroad nearby Diepwalle prompts Elias to strike a
deal with its owners from behind the Lange Kloof mountains. These strangers wish to
purchase wood directly from the woodcutters, bypassing the log buyers in Knysna.
Elias, unafraid of the log buyers’ potential retaliation, brokers a deal to provide these
men with finished beams, a strategy that will reduce their journey's time and burden.
Elias, living with his wife Barta and their four children in Barnard-se-eiland, is the only
non-woodcutter there, producing wooden beams for a continuous income. Unlike his
counterparts, he does not barter his efforts only for coffee, sugar, and flour from the log
buyers in town. But his profits are barely enough to scrape by, even when he catches
his meat. In the dense fog, Elias’s three-year-old son, Lukas, goes missing. Despite
Elias's insistence that the boy must be hiding somewhere, the community's growing
anxiety is difficult to ignore. Even Elias grapples with fear as he remembers the lethal
perils of wandering off alone in the Bos, especially where 'grootvoetes' (a term for
elephants) roam. With the van Rooyen household plunging into grief and chaos, Elias is
torn between staying with his distraught wife and physically joining the search. Hard
decisions have to be made as the day ends without any sign of the missing Lukas,
intensifying the community's fear of losing the boy to the unforgiving Bos. In the
continuation of Chapter 1 of 'Fiela se Kind,' the focus turns to the mounting search for
the missing Lukas. At nightfall, the women, Malie and Sofie, fortify the lanterns for the
search party. They dismiss the threat of encountering 'grootvoetes,' or elephants, stating
that the nearest ones are in Gouna’s Bos. Martiens arranges tasks for people; only
Anna gets to rest, Gertjie must stay with Barta, and Malie and Sofie are to construct a
substantial fire on the island to guide Lukas home if he wakes. At dawn, Koos van Sofia
departs for Diepwalle to inform the forest-warden of the missing child. By afternoon, 14
woodcutters join the search, and the following day, the town's constable arrives to
assist. He beckons a message to the magistrate, and by evening, the lumberjacks have
to help the constable, who is lost and injured in Jonkersberg's ravine. When the
constable suggests accepting the possibility of Lukas being dead, Martiens refutes,
arguing that the Bos makes children tougher. By the fourth and fifth days, the search
party grows to 24 and 30 members, respectively. On the sixth day, they are 40. On the
eighth day, Martiens reluctantly recognizes the grim reality everyone had started to
accept: Lukas is likely no longer alive. A devastated Barta stands supported by Sofie
and Malie, dressed in funeral clothes loaned by Gertjie. Seven months later, after heavy
August rains, the forest-warden finds parts of a small child's skeleton by the Gounariver,
which could also have been a baboon’s. Elias reels with the possibly final evidence of
his son's fate.
Chapter 2 of "Fiela se kind" introduces Benjamin, known and loved as the darling of his
family, alongside his siblings - Dawid, Tollie, Kittie, and Emma. They live in Lange Kloof,
a ravine stretching 100 miles amidst the mountains. Their house, Wolwekraal, is
situated on the west of Lange Kloof; his mother always claimed it was the most beautiful
part of the ravine, despite their co-existence with the unpopular Laghaans clan.
However, Benjamin's status in the family seems to be built around his position as the
youngest member.

Chapter 3 partially opens with signs of trouble disturbing the household: an encounter
with a puff adder and the predation of a favorite chick by a hawk, which Fiela dismisses
as ordinary occurrences. The family is preoccupied with the arrival of an ostrich, coming
from the east, which promises future prosperity. Benjamin runs ahead, energetic as
always, despite Fiela’s admonitions to keep behind the bird. Fiela converses with
Selling about the ostrich and the increasing presence of traveling traders in the area. In
anticipation, she readies pelts for potential sales. Despite intensifying heat, a horse cart
of traders approaches them from the Kloof's west while her children and the ostrich
raced into view from the east. As Fiela and Selling anticipate the horse cart heading
their way, their indispensable ostrich is rushed ahead into the paddock. Fiela has grand
ambitions for this ostrich to breed with the male they already own, potentially offering
significant monetary gain. The horse cart finally arrives, and it isn’t a typical trader’s cart
but two government officials collecting data for a census. This revelation alarms Fiela,
sparking worry regarding her youngest son Benjamin’s security. The specific reasons for
this fear are unrevealed in this section, leaving an air of mystery and concern hanging
over the otherwise routine proceedings of Fiela’s household. In this continuation of
Chapter 3, government officials carry out a census at Fiela's home. Fiela, apparently
aware of the potential danger this could pose for her adopted child Benjamin, tries to
outwit the officials. When asked about her children, she claims Benjamin as her own,
intending to protect him as one of her five children. They query the records, with Fiela
presenting her family data from the bible, stating that Benjamin, currently twelve, was
born February 13, 1862. Uncertainty arises when the officials identified Benjamin as a
white child in this otherwise brown family. Fiela, unflinching, stands her ground, fiercely
insisting that she had cared for Benjamin like a foundling lamb from when he was left on
her doorstep nine years prior, unclaimed. One of the officials recalls a significant event
about a boy who got lost in 'Die Bos' when he was about three - almost aligning with
Benjamin's adoption, casting an unsettling light on the circumstances of Benjamin's
early childhood. Fiela, staunchly defiant, dismisses the plausibility of the three-year-old
child traveling through the treacherous mountains to her house from 'Die Bos'. Despite
her belligerent defense, the air of complexity around Benjamin's maternity and past is
intensified as the section ends, leaving Fiela in suspense about the fate of Benjamin. As
Fiela continues to stand her ground, she asserts that Benjamin had not wandered far.
She argues that if Benjamin had ended up on the semi-constructed road that existed
nine years ago, he would have been found by the numerous workers present there. She
concludes her argument by insisting that Benjamin arrived clean and tidy; he couldn’t
have traveled through treacherous lands. Despite her valiant defense, matters gradually
escalate. One of the officers suggests the situation is beyond their authority and must
be handled by higher officials—an alarming suggestion that instills further dread in
Fiela. Fiela desperately pleads them to abandon this matter; however, their interest in
Benjamin grows. To Fiela's dismay, they interact with Benjamin, questioning him about
his past - a past Benjamin knows nothing about. The situation intensifies when one
officer suggests taking Benjamin with them, to which Fiela responds fiercely, affirming
that Benjamin is her child and that everyone in the Kloof accepts this. She reminds the
officer that he had registered Benjamin as Komoetie in the government book, insisting
that it remains so. The officer accuses Fiela of lying, but Fiela retorts, claiming neither of
them knows the full truth. Enraged by their continued probing and the officer's attempts
to lure Benjamin with offers, Fiela maintains her robust standoff, demanding that they
leave her child alone. With no resolution, the officials decide to investigate further back
in Knysna. The chapter ends with the family left in uncertainty, fearing for Benjamin’s
future.

In chapter 4, the narrative time progresses from February to April. Fiela's initial
constant anxiety over a potential government intervention gradually lessens. While she
remains vigilant for any surprises, Fiela gets increasingly involved in everyday life
activities and plans. One day, Selling, her husband, tries to console her by saying that
the officials won't return. The chapter gives glimpses of the family's attempts to
domesticate an ostrich hen called Pollie. As March ends, they plan on setting the
ostriches free on the fields; Fiela assigns family members to monitor the ostriches.
Regarding Benjamin, Fiela continues to hold her ground against any possibility of him
being the lost child Lukas while Benjamin, oblivious to this, keeps himself occupied with
childhood games. Fiela's focus then shifts towards getting their ostrich, Skopper, to
mate with Pollie to increase her ostrich farm. In her discussion with Selling, we learn
about her ambition of acquiring more land for farming. Meanwhile, she strategizes
methods of getting Skopper and Pollie to mate, including feeding them a special
substance obtained from a farmer in Oudtshoorn. By the end of the chapter, Fiela's
worries about any impending government intervention temporarily fade when Benjamin
rushes home to inform them about Pollie's "dancing", a sign that she might be ready for
mating. With Pollie's readiness and Happy and safe Benjamin, Fiela anticipates the
future optimistically.
Chapter 5: Elias van Rooyen, contemplating over a potential strategic plan, seeks
solitude at the backdoor to organize his thoughts, which were interrupted by Barta, his
wife. Elias, expressing his back pain, blames Barta's frequent nagging, which he
perceives as piling on unnecessary pressure. Elias feels the burden of his lumber work
lessens with his sons - Willem, working under Martiens Willemse, and Kristoffel, working
at Klein-Skuinsbos under Soois Cronje, contributing to their household economy.
Competition in lumber industry with Johannes Carelse and Kosyne incites insecurity in
Elias due to their increasing popularity amongst customers. When Elias shares with
Barta about his expedition to Gouna's forest in search for young yellowwood, she
misinterprets it as an effort to haul more logs causing some dispute. Elias, perturbed by
Nina's unkempt appearance, asks Barta to groom their daughter. He learns from Nina
that Anna, their neighbor, has become reluctant to lend them supplies like coffee.
Frustration brews in Elias due to stigma among the lumber community towards those
who transition out of their trade. Earlier, Davids Olwage had shared a story of
encountering elephants strategically maneuvering a steep path by using a tree for
leverage. This incident gives Elias the idea to use this tree as a trap, sawing it from
behind and leaving just enough trunk to serve seemingly safe for the elephants. A
successful execution of this plan could result in acquiring valuable elephant tusks.
Execution of this plan would require help which could mean Elias's sons or borrowed
oxen to haul the tusks hence the need for Elias's careful approach to avoid attracting
immediate detection by the elephants. His optimism is punctuated by tensions emerging
from survivor's duties and aspirations for prosperity. Chapter 5 continues with Elias
having major expectations about using a tree to trap elephants for their valuable tusks.
During his wait in the forest, he's startled by a logging team passing by. Frustratingly,
the team leader, Freek Botha, questions the experienced Elias about his supposed
search for young yellowwood and his boys’ involvement in other lumber teams. Elias
maintains his story, careful not to disclose his actual plan. Later, when Elias sights three
elephants, he believes himself to be on the brink of a huge payoff. However, to his utter
disappointment, the elephants seem to sense danger and cautiously retreat. Elias is left
bitter and exhausted, his grand plan falling apart. He loses his equipment, adding to his
difficulties. The chapter ends with an unexpected twist; Elias is visited by the forest
warden, who brings a message from the magistrate in Knysna. The magistrate has
found compelling evidence that Elias's long-lost son, Lukas, may be alive and living with
a Brown family in the Lange Kloof. Elias is left in a state of shock, struggling to absorb
this shocking revelation about Lukas. His initial excitement is couched in uncertainty
and his needs to verify the claim in court.
Chapter 6 finds Fiela beginning her day early in the morning. Her first task of noting the
weather results in a decision that they will not be tapping aloe on that day due to the
northwesterly wind. Fiela delegates duties to the children: having Tollie stay indoors due
to a previous injury caused by an ostrich, instructing Benjamin to tidy the yard and clean
the chicken coop. Selling, Fiela's husband wakes with a sickly feeling due to the
northwesterly wind, but Fiela insists he must work since a customer, Rossinski, will visit
in the following week. Unusually, Fiela announces that she plans to place their female
ostrich, Pollie, in the same enclosure as their male ostrich, Skopper. The family is
surprised and worried by this news, as ostriches can be violent to each other,
sometimes to the extent of killing one another. Fiela insists, saying that she has
prepared them carefully for this moment and that it's time they breed. As she tries to
move Pollie into Skopper's enclosure, the two census men from the previous chapters
arrive unexpectedly. Fiela manages to get Pollie out of the cage and the family watches
in suspense as Pollie and Skopper encounter each other, uncertain of their reactions.
The chapter ends with the anticipation of the reaction of the ostriches to each other and
the impact of the men's arrival. In the second section of Chapter 6, Benjamin engages in
a conversation with Fiela, questioning the cause of their skin color difference. With Fiela
correlating their difference to nature's variety, Benjamin's unrest escalates; he wonders
if there are intentions to take him away. Fiela attempts to reassure him but contemplates
the unavoidable day when they’ll need much more than her protection. Meanwhile,
tension increases as Fiela interacts with the census men who have reappeared at their
home. Fiela reluctantly lets them interact with Benjamin, while balancing the introduction
of Pollie, the female ostrich, to Skopper, the male ostrich, for breeding purposes. The
census officers serve Fiela with disheartening news: new magistrate Mr. Goldsbury,
wants to see Benjamin in Knysna. Fiela resists, asserting that Benjamin is her child and
offers to show him to the magistrate herself. The census men, however, insist on their
terms leaving Fiela distraught and angered. The chapter concludes with Fiela
soul-searching for the most viable course of action under tremendous pressure.
Eventually, she submits to the idea of having to let Benjamin be taken to Knysna while
desperately holding on to the hope that Benjamin will return home on Saturday. As the
third part of Chapter 6 unfolds, preparations intensify for Benjamin's forced journey to
appear before magistrate Mr. Goldsbury in Knysna. Fiela bravely communicates with
Benjamin, instructing him on how to respond to the magistrate's inquiries. The family
works together to prepare Benjamin physically and mentally for this intimidating
encounter. Great care is taken to ensure that Benjamin appears neat and presentable.
Fiela also packs a concealable amount of money, as a subtle representation of family's
stability. Despite everyone’s brave front, fear and concern run deeply among them,
seeping into Benjamin, who expresses dread of not returning. The adults, and even
Benjamin’s older brother Dawid, question the likelihood of him being Elias's lost son.
Fiela vehemently dismisses these doubts, clinging onto hope. In the midst of tension,
moments of normalcy still occur. The family interacts lightly, inducing a sense of
normality in Benjamin, even comparing it to their trip to visit their Aunt Rosie. Benjamin
is constantly comforted and reassured by Fiela, though he is aware of the gravity of the
situation. The chapter concludes at the crack of dawn as the carriage arrives to pick
Benjamin. Pervasive sadness creeps in as Benjamin is lifted onto the carriage, with
Fiela's lingering helplessness contrasting her usual strong demeanor. The cloud of
uncertainty over Benjamin's fate casts a long shadow over everyone’s heart, as Fiela’s
usually buoyant spirit is bruised yet resilient.

In Chapter 7, the first part, Benjamin is going through an emotional and stressful
journey with Tollie and Dawid to Magistrate Goldsbury in Knysna. They traverse through
Avontuur mountain's winding path, stopping for a rest and taking in the early morning
views. Benjamin is thematically unsettled; suffering from the cold, afraid of facing the
magistrate, and worried about the ostriches back at home. He fears the magistrate may
quiz him on his multiplication tables, specifically the table of nine. As they go down a
steep, winding path, his fear elevates to the point of screaming out in terror. He even
contemplates escaping but ceases at the realization that it’s too late. The journey took
them through a gorge or potential river channels, over wooden bridges, and saw the
path narrow dramatically. Benjamin craves to return home during this mentally taxing
journey. Images of home and his family preoccupy his thoughts. In an attempt to lighten
the heavy load, he walks behind for some parts of the journey. Walking instead of riding
the cart allows him to look back on the dangerous journey he has undertaken so far.
The harsh journey through dangerous routes on Avontuur mountain causes him intense
fear. It goes deeper when he thinks about the possible tests by Magistrate Goldsbury
relating to his past or his knowledge. As the journey progresses, Benjamin ponders his
return and the challenges that will await him even if he could make his way back.
Meanwhile, he can't shake off imagining the ostriches and the farm, bringing more
complexity to his thoughts and feelings. The chapter ends with him anxiously counting
the hours before he reaches Knysna and what awaits in the Magistrate's presence.
Chapter 7 continues with Benjamin's challenging journey. His unshod feet are painfully
raw and sore from sharp rocks along the way, and he fears earning Dawid's anger for
staining his jacket with nervous tears. Predicting an exhausting journey ahead,
Benjamin becomes reliant on their guides' reassurance. Throughout the journey,
Benjamin is gripped by fear and uncertainty. He encounters varying landscapes, all
alien and intimidating. Despite his pervasive fear, he expresses child-like curiosity about
the forest, its inhabitants, and the rumored elephants. The forest's contrast with his
familiar environment is disorienting, yet Benjamin marvels at its lush vegetation and the
seemingly wild ferns growing abundantly. He also finds it peculiar that this dense forest
is home to poor, white woodcutters. Reaching a town, he is shocked by the poverty
around him. Despite his painful journey and the disparity in living conditions, Benjamin's
longing to return to his family remains strong. Eventually, the guides try to prepare
Benjamin for the intense meeting with Magistrate Goldsbury, which is likely to be a
turning point in his life. There is wary anticipation as Benjamin is told that his life could
change dramatically based on his response to the Magistrate's questions. With a day
left before his likely meeting with the Magistrate, Benjamin is filled with anxiety, fear, and
the grudging anticipation of a life-altering day. The sense of foreboding is tangible as the
section ends, leaving readers on edge about the looming meeting and questioning
Benjamin's future.

In Chapter 8, Elias and Barta start their journey to the magistrate, to confirm the identity
of a child who might possibly be their long-lost son, Lukas. They must confront their fear
and uncertainty as they walk agonizingly slow to reach the magistrate by 10 o'clock.
Elias reassures Barta, who remains distressed and apprehensive about the impending
meeting. The couple discusses the implausible situation of a small boy surviving a
journey all alone through difficult terrain to Lange Kloof. Elias brings up a past incident
of illegal trade in stinkwood, hinting at potential traps and concerns about getting caught
breaking the law. As they approach the town, Barta urges Elias to proceed alone to the
magistrate, claiming her fatigue and fear. But Elias understands this as fear about
nearing the town and insists they both continue. He emphasizes the importance of
appearing presentable and favorable to the magistrate due to his uncertainty about a
future encounter, possibly in an unfavorable circumstance. Barta repeatedly questions
Elias about recognizing Lukas, displaying her fear and anxiety. Elias tries to comfort her
by emphasizing their right to leave if the child is not Lukas. Last-minute adjustments are
made for Barta’s oversized borrowed shoes and removed lantern and bag’s, enhancing
their presentation status before the magistrate. Their painstakingly careful preparations
illustrates their desperate hope and fear about the forthcoming identification process of
the lost child.

In Chapter 9, we find Benjamin waiting anxiously in a strange room. His distressed

mind flits between recollections of home and observations of his unfamiliar
surroundings. He speculates that he may have been forgotten by the officials, and his
thoughts drift back to his childhood. He recalls the fateful day when he retrieved an
ostrich egg for his mother, Fiela, which led to a memorable scolding and a bake of
yellow cake. Nonetheless, his mother recognized his birthday the following day hinting
at his family's deep affection. Interspersed with these flashbacks, his thoughts return to
his present predicament, reiterating his fearful anticipation of what may come. The
anxiety builds until finally, two visitors enter the room - the magistrate and a policeman.
The magistrate gently asks Benjamin probing questions about his infancy, attempting to
jog memory of a time prior to living in Lange Kloof, although with little success. The
climax of the chapter comes with the arrival of four boys of a similar age to Benjamin
and an terrified woman identified as Ms. Van Rooyen. The woman virtually ignores the
other boys and points directly at Benjamin, turns away in tears. A man, likely Elias joins
and is startled on seeing Benjamin. The chapter concludes in a flurry of whispering and
confusion, with the constable whispering something to the magistrate. Benjamin's fear
and confusion along with Ms. Van Rooyen's reaction intensify the mystery surrounding
his identity and hint at the possibility of him being Elias and Barta's lost son, Lukas. In
Chapter 9's second part, a solemn magistrate and constable converse after clearing out
the room, leaving a frightened Benjamin in growing suspense. The magistrate, removing
his glasses and leaning forward, inquires if Benjamin understood the recent events.
Benjamin, driven by overwhelming fear, merely pleads to be allowed to return home.
Subsequently, the magistrate explains that a child had disappeared in the forest years
ago, who was possibly him. To ascertain this, he brought the mother, along with
Benjamin and four other boys, hoping it would be challenging for her to identify her
child. Nonetheless, she picked Benjamin without doubt. Despite the magistrate's
sympathetic explanation, a distraught Benjamin insists that he belongs to Fiela
Komoetie, sensing a grievous error. The magistrate, still attempting to be patient,
assures Benjamin that he will soon adjust to living with his biological parents. Distressed
by the fact that no one reported Benjamin's existence with the Komoetie family, the
magistrate insists that he isn't Fiela's child. He believes Benjamin will eventually thank
him for this day. Nevertheless, Benjamin pleads to the retreating magistrate, claiming he
is Fiela's child and his father is Selling Komoetie, but to no avail. The chapter ends with
Benjamin's desperate claims falling on the deaf ears of the unbelieving magistrate. The
sudden reality of a life separated from the Komoetie family is presented before
Benjamin, intensifying the suspense and underlying importance of his true identity.

In Chapter 10, Fiela endures the agonizing wait for Benjamin's return, focusing on farm
tasks to distract herself from the mounting fears. Her inner turmoil echoes the
uncertainties surrounding Benjamin's origin and fate after his meeting with the
magistrate. Despite reassurances that he would be returned by nightfall, the day ends
with Benjamin's absence still a painful reality. Amid the sorrow, Fiela devotes herself to
arduous labour — tending to the volatile ostriches, bustling around the household and
planning for the future — all serving as counterweight to the gnawing uncertainty within.
Finding no sleep overnight, Fiela becomes convinced the officials lied about Benjamin's
return. The following day, she decides to march to Knysna herself to bring him home.
Amid protests from her family, she sternly assigns them tasks to keep the farm running
during her absence, her stern, persevering character remaining unswayed even in this
moment of intense emotional turmoil. This chapter depicts the strength and resolve of
the maternal Fiela, who will do anything to ensure the safety and return of her adopted
son, Benjamin. The chapter ends with Fiela steeled for her journey to Knysna — a
mission to reclaim her “son”, reflecting the depths of her fierceness and resolute love in
the face of adversities.
Chapter 11 follows a man and a woman, presumably Elias and Barta, guiding a child
through the wilderness. The woman carries a lantern and a knapsack. The child is made
to walk and is watched fearfully by his new "parents." He does not speak or cry, just
trudges on. Confrontations with the man and the magistrate from the hearing are briefly
recalled, embedding the child's resistance to his new identity. The pair insist on calling
him Lukas, though he insists his name is Benjamin Komoetie. The voice speaking is
likely Benjamin's internal monologue, as he recalls his mother Fiela asserting he is not a
forest woman's child and vehemently disputes the imposed identity. Realizing the adults
are unresponsive to his protest, he falls silent, reserving his energy for planning an
escape back home. Elias and Barta perseverantly move him deeper into the forest
whereas Benjamin doesn't speak fearing it would validate his new identity. Despite their
persistent tries to engage him and offer him food and rest, he remains distant and
unresponsive. He silently agonizes over his possibly irreversible circumstances,
reminiscing about home, and expressing a sense of divided identity - he is white, while
his beloved family is brown. Despite their efforts to put Benjamin at ease, he only grows
more resistant and anxious. He even mentally prepares to walk a week back to his
home, vowing not to eat until he returns there. At Elias and Barta’s home, he meets a
crowd of increasingly familiar faces. Despite their attempts to make him feel loved and
welcome, Benjamin decides to sleep and plan his long journey back to Lange Kloof.
Even the sympathy of an old woman, who seems to empathize with his turmoil, provides
no solace as she too addresses him as Lukas, leading Benjamin to cry, his hope turning
to despair.

Chapter 12 opens with Fiela's emotional turmoil as she ventures on her determined
journey to Knysna to reclaim Benjamin. She makes a fervent prayer for divine
assistance despite her lingering anger at God, whom she feels spurned her previous
pledges concerning Benjamin. Selling, Fiela's husband, cautions her to tread cautiously,
reminding her not to instigate conflicts and advising her to be humbly pragmatic.
Furthermore, Fiela wrestles with troubling theories suggested by "the devil," regarding
Benjamin's fate. She fears these hypotheses may emerge from the Laghaans, the
family with whom they have an ongoing feud. Fiela remains haunted by the weight of
her husband's past transgressions, notably a murder incident that happened years ago
and its subsequent impact on their family's standing. Selling's transgression dates back
to December 1859, when a heated altercation over a sheep between him and Kies
Laghaan ended fatally for the latter. Selling was sentenced to a lifetime of hard labor, an
event that heavily impacted Fiela, especially as she was pregnant with their child,
Emma. As she continued with her journey, Fiela held onto the hope she would be
reunited with Benjamin, strengthened by the news that Selling was now working at a
construction site for a new road to Knysna. Through a mix of fear, resentment, and
determination, Fiela soldiers on, her mind focused on her mission. Chapter 12 continues
with Fiela setting off early in the morning on her journey to reclaim her beloved
Benjamin, journeying with her child in tow and a knapsack of Selling's food in her hand.
Along her journey, she encounters traces of bandits whom Selling was not amongst.
She is reminded of a story her father once told regarding Andrew Bain, credited with
establishing a road across the mountains and through the Bos, which was actually a
pre-existing path made by elephants years ago. Her search for Selling continues,
intensified by her discovery of his life sentence of hard labor for the past murder
incident. This revelation stirs in Fiela an overwhelming sense of grief, despair, and
determination. After safely leaving her child, she must navigate the precariously steep
surroundings of the construction site where Selling was sentenced to labor. Against all
odds, she manages to locate Selling but is too late to reach him before he is escorted
away. Fiela remains undeterred, lying hidden in the bush praying her child stays safe. A
week later she manages to smuggle food to Selling, and for four years she carries on
this routine. Despite the increasing hardships, Fiela remains steadfast, her resilient spirit
fueling her determination to bring back Benjamin and reunite her family. Her quest is
unyielding, motivated by a mother's love and a burning desire for justice. Chapter 12
concludes with Fiela receiving the news that Selling was still alive, despite his harsh
conditions as a prisoner. Selling had been deemed unfit for labor as his health had
dramatically deteriorated. More waves of bandits had been brought in to complete the
construction of the road which was overseen by Thomas, son of Andrew Bain. The
completion of the road and the arrival of the first wagons filled with timber from the
forest was celebrated in Avontuur. Fiela was asked to join the celebration but declined,
choosing instead to focus on cultivating her life at Wolwekraal with her children.
Meanwhile, Petrus informed Fiela that Selling was still breathing. Though initially met
with Fiela's despair, she later encounters Selling returning to home clothed in bandit's
attire. He had not escaped, but was rather one of the lucky few granted a ticket of leave
by Prince Alfred, the son of Queen Victoria. The Prince had come to shoot elephants in
the forest, and in honor of the completion of the road, it was named after him as Prins
Alfred’s Pas. To celebrate, he declared an amnesty for certain prisoners - among the
fortunate was Selling. Depleted and frail, Selling returned home to Fiela and his
children. The realization that one of his children, Benjamin, was significantly different,
shocked him.

In Chapter 13, Benjamin, now called Lukas, lost hope in any immediate rescue, as five
days had passed since he was taken from Wolwekraal and three days since he was
brought to the bush. He held onto the five shillings he kept hidden in the mattress. Nina,
the van Rooyens' daughter, offered to show him a secret if he accompanied her.
Distressed, he continued to insist he was Fiela Komoetie’s child, not their lost son
Lukas. Despite his objections, he followed Nina into the forest, his fear growing in the
unfamiliar surroundings. Nina's eccentric behavior and their playfully aggressive banter
marked their journey. On reaching a steep slope, Nina vanished. Fearfully, he called for
her but received no response. When she reappeared, she started making music with old
bottles she had hidden, claiming them as her own, stolen, or found. She demonstrated
how each made a different sound when blown over the top, reflecting her fascination
with sounds and their matching elements in nature. However, Benjamin was impatient
and anxious, repeated his request for her to show him the way out of the woodlands.
Contrary to his hopes, Nina claimed it was still a long walk from their initial path, the
'Kom-se-pad,' to leave the forest, suggesting a further delay in his desired escape. In
the continuation of Chapter 13 of 'Fiela se kind', Benjamin, still coerced into accepting
the name Lukas, negotiates with Nina over his hidden five shillings, money given to him
by his real mother, Fiela, for emergencies. Nina appears intrigued yet suspicious,
expressing concern over Elias finding the money. Benjamin proposes that if she helps
him exit the forest, he'd tell her where the money is. Nina refuses without proof of his
truthfulness. They discuss the value of the money and plans on how to spend it, and
Nina eventually agrees to help him find the way out of the forest on the condition of
receiving the five shillings. Beginning to see an opportunity for escape, Benjamin
agrees. Later, Elias, Nina and Benjamin's supposed father, plans on making Benjamin
work with him. He believes that both Benjamin and Nina need to have some sense put
into them. He decides that Benjamin could help him in his work of making beams and
insists that Benjamin is going to be involved in his illegal elephant trapping business for
more money. He also contemplates finding Nina a job in town. Elias's wife, Barta,
suggests giving Benjamin more time to adapt, agreeing with the advice of the
magistrate, however Elias remains insistent on his plans. In the continuation of Chapter
13, Elias instructs Benjamin (still being called Lukas) to work with Nina, his suggested
sister, in the process of preparing lumber. Elias is insistent on integrating Benjamin into
his work despite Barta's caution on giving him time to adjust. Elias plans that the
children need to take some load off his aging, aching back. He orchestrates a task
where Benjamin and Nina have to move a heavy tree stump with wooden lever-like
tools, and despite some struggles and protests, they manage to accomplish the task
with surprising efficiency. Elias recognizes the additional value of having two more
hands assisting him in his work. He envisages Benjamin aiding him in the physically
demanding job, and Nina possibly being put to work in town. Meanwhile, Malie, another
adult resident in their community, enters the scene and observes Elias's effort to
integrate Benjamin into their way of life. She points out Benjamin's lack of interest or
enthusiasm about his new environment. Throughout the day, Elias remains watchful and
stern, in the process, addressing the mischievous streak in both children. He awaits the
return of the children from their tasks, while Malie calls for Elias's attention towards a
more considerate treatment of Benjamin. Meanwhile, Elias bristles at the halt in work
the children's disappearance caused and impatiently waits to chastise them for their
truancy. In the final part of Chapter 13 of 'Fiela se kind', Elias is growing frustrated with
the magistrate's instructions on how to treat the rediscovered son, Benjamin, who they
insist is their long-lost Lukas. He adamantly believes he is responsible for disciplining
Benjamin, despite Barta suggesting they need consent from the magistrate each time
they exert authority over him. When both Benjamin and Nina, who were assigned forest
work, failed to return, Elias grows impatient. Upon seeing Nina sneak back into the
house, he reprimands her harshly, inquiring about Benjamin's whereabouts. Nina
explains that Benjamin has run away towards the Deepwalls, using the path known to
him from his journey with Elias and Barta from Wolwekraal to the forest. Nina’s
revelation of Benjamin's plan stirs considerable consternation, as Elias fears getting in
trouble with the magistrate if Benjamin gets lost again. Swiftly, Elias makes preparations
to chase down Benjamin before he finds the main road. Barta assists him despite her
confusion and rising concern. Elijah’s urgency reflects his determination to bring
Benjamin back before the ensuing trouble magnifies, even if it means braving the forest
until darkness falls.

In Chapter 14, Fiela arrives in Knysna in late dusk after two strenuous days of walking.
Exhausted but resolute, she enquires locals about the magistrate's office. Although met
with curt answers, Fiela quickly navigates her way around the smaller-than-anticipated
town bristling with sparse settlements. Advised by a loquacious toothless man, Fiela
takes refuge near a schoolhouse due to the unavailability of proper accommodation for
the night. Under the stars, she contemplates the daunting challenges ahead, including
potential clashes with the judiciary. As dawn breaks, Fiela freshens up and watches a
procession of forest-cutters and bustling locals starting their day. She waits with
mounting tension outside the magistrate’s dwelling. Amid the flurry of arrivals, she fails
to identify the magistrate himself. Despite her urge to question the men about
Benjamin's whereabouts, Fiela restrains herself, acknowledging the importance of
procedure and patience in dealing with authority figures. After a period of hesitation,
Fiela musters enough courage to knock on the magistrate’s door, only to be rebuked by
a dismissive man. Upon his suggestion, she heads around to the side door, only to be
met with another request for communication in English, which throws her off. Chapter
14 concludes with Fiela wrestling the myriad obstacles that stand between her and her
quest to reclaim Benjamin. In the second half of Chapter 14, Fiela struggles with the
language barrier as she attempts to communicate her need to see Magistrate Goldsbury
with the constabulary office attendant who only speaks English. She earnestly pleads
for someone who can translate, and eventually connects with an old man who functions
as the space's cleaner. Fiela instructs him to inform the magistrate of her presence.
Upon hearing of her arrival, the magistrate sends word via the constable that the matter
of the boy, Benjamin, had been resolved and he had been returned to his biological
parents. Fiela's world shatters as she absorbs this information, desperately insisting it
can't be true. Overwhelmed and heartbroken, she rejects the opportunity to find shelter
for the night, choosing instead to lie in the sand by the forest path. When day breaks,
she soldiers on, trekking back to her home with a heavy heart. Safely home, she's
greeted by a worried Selling and her children who've anxiously awaited her return.
When asked about Benjamin's whereabouts, Fiela shares the devastating news:
Benjamin is not their child but belongs to another family. As the reality of their loss sinks
in, they all watch as Fiela crumbles under the weight of her anguish. The chapter closes
with this image of shared sorrow, with the family's ostrich Skopper observing them from
afar.

Chapter 15 introduces an improvement in Lukas’s (formerly known as Benjamin)

relationship with Elias and his new family. He and Nina are working on building a
second stile. While Lukas is making considerable progress, Nina struggles and
frequently ruins the block they are working on. Elias sees potential in Lukas, despite his
occasional insolence. While Nina is resentful of the work expected of her, Lukas quietly
and inconveniently reasserts his identity as Benjamin. Meanwhile, glimpsing his life in
the Lange Kloof, Lukas fails to blend into the family and struggles with simple
exchanges and behavioral norms. There are frequent confrontations between Lukas
and Elias and occasionally Nina, revealing the perpetual tension within the household.
On reaching his breaking point, Lukas daringly challenges Nina, which nearly leads to
corporal punishment. Elias, worn by the constant surveillance required, binds Lukas at
night to prevent him fleeing. Despite successive punitive measures, Lukas resolutely
maintains his identity as Benjamin. His melancholia deepens as he painstakingly etches
daily notches into a wooden crossbeam, marking his 21-day absence from his true
home. In the backdrop, rain restricts their woodwork, compounding the tense
atmosphere. The household persists in an uncomfortable existence — with Lukas
counting down for Fiela's imminent arrival, Nina frequently clashing with Elias, and
Barta's incessant sighs punctuating the tense silence. Despite his reassurance that
Lukas would never run again, Elias still fears his flight, epitomizing his failure to
integrate Lukas. The chapter closes with Lukas still yearning for Fiela's arrival,
deepening the mystery of his true identity. Chapter 15 continues by exploring family
dynamics further in Elias van Rooyen's household. An argument ensues as Nina, after
defying her parents' orders, ventures outside alone. Her defiance and subsequent
absence agitate Elias, resulting him in fetching his whip in a fit of rage. Nina later
returns, soaked from the ongoing rain, oblivious to Elias' fury. Upon her entry, Elias
traps and brutally punishes Nina as others within the household help him or watch the
ordeal. Her screams are vividly described, painting a raw image of the harsh
consequences of family discord. Nina's outcry stops only after Elias ceases, leaving her
trembling and crying on the floor. Fueled by his anger, Elias demands a pair of scissors,
deciding to dramatically alter Nina's appearance as punitive reinforcement. Upon
discovering their dullness, he resorts to a knife, handed over by Kristoffel. Following
this, Elias proceeds to savagely cut Nina's hair unevenly. The chapter thereby escalates
the existing tension in the new household that Lukas (Benjamin) finds himself in,
reemphasizing the domestic strife and the volatile father figure, Elias.

Chapter 16 continues to explore Fiela's strife over Benjamin's state. She compels her
household to search the Bible for the story of Solomon judging between two women
arguing over a child, hinting at her determination to confront the magistrate's decision.
Her discomfort does not halter her day-to-day activities, and she actively works on
improving the farm. She maintains a resolute optimism, despite Selling's pessimism
over Benjamin's plight. Fiela refuses to confront Petrus about Benjamin's situation,
opting to keep it a secret. She decides to travel back to Knysna to find Benjamin. She
reflects on Benjamin's ability to make a long journey at the age of three and debates
that with Selling, further indicating her doubts over the magistrate's decision. Feeling a
sense of rebellion, she insists on seeing the magistrate, hinting at a possible showdown.
Despite her physical exhaustion, her strong will overpowers any reluctance. Upon
reaching Knysna, Fiela forcefully makes her way to the magistrate, having been ignored
at the side door. Her anger and determination are evident as she insists on speaking to
the magistrate about Benjamin. Upon confronting him, she defends her right to know
about her child's fate, showing her unwavering resolution to reclaim Benjamin. Chapter
16 further displays Fiela's relentless determination to get Benjamin back. She confronts
the magistrate, asking about the child's journey from Lange Kloof to her home,
something the magistrate hadn't previously addressed. In this intense exchange, it
becomes known that the magistrate considers Fiela's nine-year guardianship of
Benjamin as illegal, an accusation she fiercely opposes. Seeking proof of her maternal
right, Fiela proposes an identity test based on the child's attire on the day he went
missing. The magistrate dismisses Fiela's proposition, claiming the true parents are
known, and threatens to have Fiela watched to prevent disruptiveness. Despite this,
Fiela persists on knowing where 'her child' resides. Fiela returns home, keeping her
sorrow hidden from her neighbor Petrus. After Petrus continues pressing, Fiela reveals
the truth about Benjamin, sparking Petrus's concern but also revealing his ignorance to
the issue's racial nature, which Fiela points out. Petrus pledges to investigate behind the
mountain, offering her a glimmer of hope. Despite Fiela's exhaustion and emotional
turmoil, she finds slight comfort from the supportive community she has, hopes
heightening with the sound of a mating ostrich. This indicates potential growth and
prosperity for her ostrich farm, symbolizing a light at the end of her traumatic ordeal.
Chapter 17 delves into Elias' ambitious plot to trap elephants, particularly intrigued by
their predictable traversing routes through the forest. He envisions crafting an elephant
trap that is indistinguishable yet effective, investing time and efforts in its meticulous
concealment in hopes of capturing Oupoot, the largest elephant in the Bos. Elias' grand
plan for profiteering from elephant tusks hints at his sideline entrepreneurial approach,
juxtaposed with his traditional life as a beam-maker. Concurrently, Elias prepares his
home for the impending visit of Mr. Kapp, the forester, expected to evaluate Lukas'
(Benjamin's) home conditions. A strategic Elias sends Lukas and Nina away, attempting
to create an impression of relative normalcy. Barta complies with Elias' staged attempts,
despite her nervousness and slight deviation in describing Lukas' adaptability. Their
interaction with Mr. Kapp brings in the external perspective, with indications of Fiela's
attempts to reclaim Benjamin, therefore emphasizing the protective measures Elias
must take. The chapter ends with Elias and Barta's forced optimism toward Lukas'
'growth' and Mr. Kapp departing with a slightly skewed image of the situation. In the
continuation of this 17th chapter of 'Fiela se kind' (Fiela's Child), Elias is engaged in
conversation with a character we understand to be Mr. Kapp, a part of which pertains to
the discussion of the governmental displeasure over capturing blue bucks. Evidently,
Elias tries to distance himself from the practice, underscoring his line of work consists of
more substantial ventures than hunting small game. With the dialogue edging towards
Benjamin's progress, Elias craftily seems to maintain that his supposed son is finally in
the right place, assuring the magistrate that Lukas (Benjamin) is thriving. Notably, Elias
includes Barta in his expressions of gratitude and appreciation for the help from the
magistrate, attempting to create a consensus of adapted domesticity in his household.
Upon Kapp's departure, Elias heaves a significant sigh of relief, not because he had
something to hide but primarily due to the unpredictable nature of the child now known
as Lukas. Elias is keen on keeping his reputation clean with the magistrate, alluding to
some covert activities involving elephant tusks he has been planning. His instructions to
Barta to prepare supplies for a week indicate an upcoming expedition, presumably
linked to elephant tusk acquisition. The subsequent mention of the risk of the forester
making an unexpected return raises concern and tension. Barta is tasked with preparing
the meat for Elias's trip and appears confused yet compliant. Elias deftly alleviates
Barta's concerns of the forester sensing fresh meat nearby or Benjamin inadvertently
providing evidence of corporal punishment, indicating Benjamin's absence alongside the
forester's fear of the 'bigfoot' forest residents. Elias ends the chapter firmly instructing
Barta to prepare the meat, establishing an authoritative tone.

Chapter 18 begins with the arrival of the winter rain which lasts for three days. At
Wolwekraal, there's a lot to do. Skopper, their ostrich, undergoes a change, his beak
and legs beginning to redden, signifying a shift in behavior. Amid all of these, Fiela
imposes new rules around the farm, primarily to aid the mating season of their
ostriches. When asked whether the ostriches would have babies by the time Benjamin
returns, Fiela's response alludes to the uncertainty surrounding Benjamin's
homecoming. Petrus, delayed by the rain, finally departs. The arduously long wait
results in heightened expectations on his return. However, when Petrus arrives without
Benjamin, their hopes dissipate. He confirms his meeting with Mr. Goldsbury, the
magistrate, and asserts that Benjamin is adjusting well to his new life with his 'birth
parents', the Van Rooyen family. Despite Fiela's vehement disapproval, Petrus insists
there's no doubt that Benjamin belongs with his true parents. Fiela, fueled by disbelief
and frustration, disputes Petrus's words and insists she must explain the situation to
Benjamin herself. Petrus urges Fiela to leave Benjamin be, reasoning that Benjamin is
resilient and can adapt to her new circumstances. Fiela remains unconvinced by
Petrus's assertions, primarily because he hasn't seen Benjamin himself. As the chapter
concludes, Fiela is warned to cease interfering, else legal trouble may ensue. Despite
this, Fiela remains resolute in her conviction that Benjamin is truly her son, setting a
tense tone for the chapters to come.

Chapter 19 focuses on Lukas and his surrender to the idea that Fiela, his mother, will
not come for him. Stricken with fear and loneliness, and experiencing a hollow sadness,
he finds himself trapped in a life and identity he doesn't want. He prays, first for his life
at Fiela's home, and then for forgiveness, all the while questioning his identity as Lukas
and why being white may have affected Fiela's actions. His interaction with Nina, who
exhibits a carefree and defiant attitude, hints at the stark contrast between their
personalities and their coping mechanisms. He climbs a tree for unknown reasons on
his father's command, and puts up with Nina's audacious challenges and uncouth
display. He wonders about his father's plans for the deep pit they are digging, his
thoughts circulating around the endless cycle of laborious days marked by the number
of tree notches (kepe). Reality dawns when the man returns and orders them into the
woods with digging tools. They were to dig a hole, the purpose of which remains a
mystery to him. Nina's capricious behavior continues amidst their arduous work,
sparking curiosity but also frustration in Lukas. These episodes demonstrate Lukas'
struggle to adapt to his new surroundings and his desperate yearning for his life with
Fiela. In the second piece of Chapter 19, Nina and Lukas continue their hard labor of
digging a hole under Elias's supervision. The purpose of the pit remains unknown to
Lukas, leading to thoughts of the seemingly never-ending drudgery of work, measured
by the notches on the trees. Ignoring Lukas’s insistence on focusing on their task at
hand, Nina playfully taunts him with an ornate account of her having witnessed the birth
of a baby elephant while lurking in the wilderness, arousing a childlike curiosity in him.
Their late arrival home and the father's subsequent rigid questioning further fuels an
unexplained animosity. His irritation continues within the house as he throws an
unexpected announcement - that Fiela Komoetie, Lukas' (or Benjamin's) 'mother', had
visited and left his belongings. This tumultuous revelation and the man’s assurance that
she wouldn't dare to return fills Lukas with a spectrum of emotions. The narrative then
cuts to another day when Elias goes off mysteriously into the woods, a frequency that
makes a regular appearance henceforth. Concurrently, Willem returns with news of
elephants running rampant near the Klaas-se-kloof, suggesting the man's something
questionable occurring there. Despite this alarming news, Elias's suspicious amusement
hints at the expanding complexity of his undisclosed schemes. Consequently, Lukas
finds himself stuck in the routine between monotonous workdays and contemplative
nights, predominantly drowned in reflections of his past life in Wolwekraal.
Consequently, the continuous deterioration of the forced son-father relationship
accompanied by Nina's irksome behavior deeply frustrates Lukas, intensifying his
yearning for what he deems to be his real family. In the third section of Chapter 19,
Nina's disrespectful behavior comes to the point where she is publicly chastised by her
father. This is followed by men, including Kristoffel, intensifying their labor to erect
beams for a yet unknown purpose. During their work, Lukas queries Kristoffel about the
forest pathways, expressing his wish to understand the Bos better. Kristoffel subtly
points out Lukas' consistent desire to find his way back to the Lange Kloof, criticizing his
reluctance to fully accept his new family and life. The next day, Nina leaves for the
forest. When she returns, Lukas notices her distressed appearance, torn clothing, and
presumably cried-out eyes. Sitting silently against the sink-plate wall, Nina appears
deeply affected, as if her buoyant spirit has vanished. When Lukas asks about her
situation, Nina embittered, states that their father is a "pig." On further probing, Nina
reveals the mystery behind the hole - it was an elephant trap, and she had witnessed a
dead baby elephant trapped in there. This revelation brings to light Elias' sinister plans
and concludes that Nina's defiant persona is deeply affected by the harsh realities of
their life, increasing tensions further.

Chapter 20 tracks Lukas's gradually adapting to his forced identity as Elias's son
despite intermittent resistance. His relationships with his new brothers, Willem and
Kristoffel, and sister, Nina, become more familiar, while addressing Elias as 'father' and
Barta as 'mother' become less straining over time. However, a distressing incident,
where Elias narrowly escapes an ambush by the elephants he has been illegally
trapping, shatters the slowly assembled normalcy. Events take a startling turn when
Nina teaches Lukas about the dangerous yet liberating world of theft, demonstrating it
by stealing a flute from a local store. Lukas condemns her risky behavior and rejects
playing on her stolen flute, emphasizing only on his work and a desire for solitude.
Finally, rumors circulate about Elias being chased by elephants, resulting in Elias's
fear-induced confinement to their homestead and plans to delegate wood chopping
tasks to Lukas. Throughout these events, Lukas continues to grow in the guise of Elias's
son, though Benjamin Komoetie’s lost identity lurks beneath. Chapter 20 continues
documenting Lukas's adaptation to his new identity and life in Elias's household. One
day, the tranquillity is disrupted when a forest ranger, Mr. Kapp, visits their home under
mysterious circumstances. Elias instructs Lukas to converse with him and politely
dismisses him to read the Bible for Aunt Gertjie. On arriving, Lukas finds a frightened
Nina protesting. Elias breaks the news about Nina's future employment in the town of
Knysna, angering her. Elias tightly binds Nina, who struggles and protests vigorously.
Meanwhile, Lukas reaches Aunt Gertjie's house only to be held back with Bible
readings. He learns about the altercation at his home from Aunt Malie, who joins him in
reading. On reading about Nina's discomfort, Lukas returns home to pacify her, assuring
her new job offers a better financial state, but Nina insists on her refusal. The chapter
introduces an added layer of tension as Nina resists her designated fate, while Lukas is
forced to navigate the hard familial dynamics. Elias's actions further solidify his dubious
moral character. Chapter 20 culminates with Nina moving out of the van Rooyen
household. Despite her protests, Nina had to resign to her impending future
employment in the town of Knysna. Lukas tries to make Nina realize the financial
benefits of living in the town. Upon reaching the forest ranger, Nina resists her change
of circumstances. But a stern look from the man makes her fall in line, following him
without a word. Lukas watches them disappear along the path into the woods, leaving
him feeling sudden loneliness. Though he understands that Nina caused disruptions in
the household, he would miss her. He contemplates the open road to Lange Kloof
where his real family and ostrich farm are present, struck with homesickness. The
sound of a whip in a distance shakes Lukas out of his thoughts and he turns back
towards the path home, to the van Rooyen household. The chapter ends with Lukas still
entangled in his forced identity and familial dynamics.