The Explorer - Session 22 - Reading Comprehension suggested answers

In the narrative "The Explorer," a group of children elect to tattoo themselves as a lasting symbol of their promise to an explorer to guard the secrecy of an ancient city they've discovered. They opt for a simple 'X' design for the tattoo due to its ease of creation. Lila, one of the children, insists that Mac, the youngest, cannot have the tattoo because it would cause pain, potentially disturb the explorer with his crying, and lead to disapproval from their parents. The vow represented by the tattoo holds deep significance, as it cements a unique bond amongst the group, marking a shared secret that unites them in a way that excludes all others.

The chapter detailing 'The Vow' is intentionally brief to underscore its critical role in the story. This moment serves as a pivotal juncture, altering the course of events and the dynamics between the characters. The brevity of the chapter also serves to shift the pace of the narrative, highlighting the gravity of the children's oath and setting the stage for the subsequent developments within the tale. In essence, the vow encapsulates a turning point, emphasizing the weight of the promise and its potential ramifications on the story's progression.