Deathwatch Chapters 9-13 Flashcards

Ben's Survival and Encounters

• After drinking, Ben experienced hunger, prompting a realization of his physical needs.
• To test if Madec was watching, Ben used a sotol sandal to probe openings in the rock.
• Ben perceived water as his first weapon on the butte, granting him critical time for thought.
• He successfully killed Gambel's quail with a slingshot for sustenance.
• Eating the quail caused Ben to gag, leading him to vow not to repeat the experience.
• Ben decided to bake the quail in the sun for better preparation next time.

Nighttime and Tunnel Defense

• Ben was unafraid of night voices, as his father explained the desert's need to express itself at night.
• Ben was warned of Madec's approach by birds roosting at the tunnel's entrance, alerting him to movement.
• He utilized pebbles and buckshot in his slingshot for effective foraging and defense.

Strategy and Confrontation

• On day 6, Ben's beard provided some protection against the sun.
• He determined he would confront Madec directly, meeting him stripped of advantages.
• Madec ascended the butte by cutting a stairway using a hammer and spike.
• He secured a metal peg, or piton, in the rock to facilitate climbing, allowing him to hold onto the rope.

Helicopter and Misperceptions

• Ben heard a helicopter after recognizing his dire hiding situation in the tunnel.
• He speculated that Denny O'Neil was piloting the helicopter.
• Denny did not stop the helicopter engine due to concerns about potential breakdown.
• Ben assumed Les Stanton had disembarked from the helicopter to talk to Madec despite doubts about his identity based on footwear.

Urgency and Action

• Ben felt compelled to act as he realized Madec would reach him soon.
• The idea that a city dweller like Madec would attempt to kill him was particularly degrading.
• In preparation for his next move, Ben consumed the available birds and lizard while drinking as much water as possible.
• He descended the stone funnel at night to approach Madec's camp.

Tactical Maneuvers

• Sliding down the tunnel feet-first in darkness created a sense of terror due to the speed.
• Upon reaching Madec's camp, Ben contemplated alternative actions instead of confrontation.
• Ben buried himself in the sand for concealment.
• He inserted tubes in his nose and ears to facilitate breathing and listening to Madec's movements.

Changes and Equipment Issues

• After emerging from the sand, Ben decided to keep the rubberless yoke of his slingshot for potential defense.
• The Hornet vehicle was rendered unusable due to a missing bolt.
• Ben was stranded in the desert as the rotor was also absent from the vehicle.
• In a strategic move, Ben ignited the tent to draw Madec back to camp.

Test your knowledge of Chapters 9 through 13 of 'Deathwatch' through these flashcards. Each card focuses on key moments and character actions, helping you deepen your understanding of the text. Perfect for review and study sessions.