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The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 01

By: amicus



For the readers of The Chief, this is a continuation of the story approximately ten generations or 300 years later. It is a complete story read alone, but the Chief was written as a 'prequel' to Part Two and was intended to be a novel combining both parts. It may still be, but I have submitted the first work to a publisher and may have two small books rather than one larger one.

I welcome your comments and criticism and I hope you enjoy the story. Thank you...

The lodge was old; more than old, it was ancient. It was built on the side of a hill facing south; a covered deck surrounded three sides. The structure had suffered fire and storms and been rebuilt with care and added to many times.

The wooden building was currently in good shape. The log walls had been recaulked with clay and coated with boiled pine pitch from the nearby forest. The roof had been redone and birch bark gutters bordered the slanted cedar shakes.

Seven men sat around a large rectangular wooden table on the front deck, a small bowl of tiny blue flowers graced the center. The mid-summer day was warm, with a slight breeze from the west, the sky a hard blue with no clouds.

Of the men sitting in wood frame chairs with woven backs and bottoms, six were old and dressed in white robes of bleached hide. The seventh man wore a fringed tan tunic reaching to his knees, a loose clout and hide leggings that fell to rest on dark trimmed moccasins. 

Sitting down, he was a head taller than any at the table; his easy grace belied his height and two hundred pound frame. His angled face was intense as he listened to the Seers speak.

Sahjeed Deeda, the tenth of his family line to become Chief of the village, struggled to follow the complex and interwoven history of his People. For ten days, from first light to sundown he had called in all the Seers, the Elders, male and female and the wise ones of his People. 

Their memories were often in conflict, the chants they had memorized from childhood differed at each telling from Seer to Seer. The Elders recited family lines from memory and there was disagreement at every step.

Sahjeed Deeda was nearing the end of his search to understand the history of his People. There was nowhere else to go, no one else to listen to. He had heard from representatives of each village and from every Elder of every family. His mind was filled with contradictions and gaps of continuity.

"It is agreed that the People came from a place called the 'Burned Land', to settle here, where we live today. It is also said by nearly all that the Far See-er, Lohmaand, who left no children, put those of his teachings in place in all the villages. They are now known as the See-ers of the People. Do any here disagree?"

There was no objection from those around the table.

"There are many different stories about the finding of a 'new' people. There are those who say that the People thrived and multiplied for many, many seasons. But our numbers now fall and have for many seasons. I do not understand these things.

"It is said by all that Ahjeed the First sired many children and that he and his mate lived long and well. Their children were fruitful and their children too, and many have family tied to the first Ahjeed. It is said also that at one time nearly all the villages had leaders that were related to Ahjeed the First. Now, it appears, I am the last who is of his line."

Sahjeed Deeda looked around the table and realized that his quest was at an end. They did not understand the reason for his questions, they did not seem to care or have even slight interest. They were called and they came. They would return to their villages and nothing would be changed.

"Thank you for your patience and for your words. Please eat and refresh yourselves before you leave."

Sahjeed Deeda sat at his table and looked out over the village below him. Marveling again at the wisdom of the First Ahjeed who had the Chief's lodge placed in such a way as to look out over the entire village and across the river and the surrounding fields and woodlands. A flicker of motion drew his eyes to his ever-present protectors and to the Seer of his village. He motioned for them to join him.

As they mounted the steps to the deck, a matronly woman with long gray hair tied in a single thick strand falling down her back, came from the lodge, cleared the table and left fresh drinks and a tray of food. "You are not happy, my son?"

"Thank you, honored mother, you have provided well for our guests. I have learned more than I ever thought, and less," he said.

"Such is the path to knowledge, my Sahjeed. In all that was said, there is more that was not. We will speak at another time."

The two approaching men paused on the steps until the Chief was alone, "You may be glad to know, First Guard, that you have once again been confirmed to be of the line of Omaat, First Guard of Ahjeed, the First Chief of the People. But you, Saybaahnd are said to be are said to be of your own making. Tell me again why my father chose you as his vision seeker."

"Because I always told him what he wanted to hear, my Chief. It troubles me that you are not as your father was," answered Saybaahnd.

Sahjeed Deeda laughed, "You are like a tunic that scratches my skin that I wear sometimes just to irritate me. I would have it no other way. Besides, were it not for you I would not have heard even the name of Ruubaat, whose evil brought forth the good in Ahjeed the First. I am in debt to you for that, even if it was a slip of the tongue.

"It also made me doubt and question the legends the chants and the songs of our past as brought forward by the Seers. I have even less respect for them now."

Sahjeed Deeda spoke harshly then softened his face and his words.

"Duulaat, my friend and First Guard of this village, have you completed the investigation of the complaints that have been made?"

"Yes, my Chief. They are true and confirmed beyond doubt. I await your orders."

"Ah, yes, my orders," said Sahjeed Deeda, "Our peaceful village is about to be torn apart. I have sought understanding and find myself even more confused. Saybaahnd, as my spiritual advisor, what have you to say?"

The Seer lowered his eyes, "It is a situation that must be dealt with my Chief. It is you who must deal with it."

As time had passed and the village grew in numbers and size, the People, who had been able to solve minor conflicts by themselves, began to depend on the Guards of the village to resolve issues in dispute.

A distant Chief had devised a system of accepting complaints by having each of the People visit a special room in the Chief's lodge on a certain day of each quarter moon.

Within that room were many woven baskets, one for each person of age in the village. Before entering the room, each would take a small container of tiny sticks colored black, red and white.

A person in the village who had done a good thing might receive one or more white sticks and it would be announced to the People.

If it was found that a person had a red stick in their personal basket, they were required to go to an Elder and make amends for a small crime of theft or threatening behavior.

A single black stick was brought to the attention of the First Guard of the People and the Chief, if necessary. The black stick was an accusation of physical violence, the taking of a life, or the forcing of a woman.

When several baskets showed red and black sticks, an investigation began. It was not known to the People, but Guards in hidden places observed as the colored sticks were placed. Those who made the accusations were privately spoken with and when all had made statements the First Guard reported to the Chief.

In the way of the People, each male of age was given possession of an equal size of land within the village and rights to wooded areas, and growing areas outside the village. As families grew, the area of possession expanded to meet the growing population. The system worked, not always smoothly, but with understanding and a mutual goal, the village grew and prospered.

When several families decided to join together and pool their assets and divide their labor, there was no cause for objection. The association proved successful and others joined until the group occupied a substantial area within the village.

The problems began when general complaints concerning woodlands and fruit trees began to emerge. Fights broke out over berry patches and fishing rights, some were ignoring the given rights of others.

Screams and other sounds of violence within the group's area brought forth a flurry of red sticks and then many more, red and black, followed.

At first light on the day following the orders given by Sahjeed Deeda, the entire guard force of the village surround the group's area and moved into the compound. All inside were taken and brought before the Chief and the Elders in front of the Chief's lodge.

The People of the village gathered to watch and listen.

Sahjeed Deeda tensed as he felt the almost physical fury from several men of the commune. The Guards stiffened and moved alongside a step forward on each side of the Chief.

Sahjeed Deeda focused on a large man at the front of the group. He wore a long robe of hide open down the front, his lips were clenched, his coal black eyes blazed with hatred.

"You are Brotaahg," said Sahjeed Deeda, "We grew up together, we learned to hunt side by side, we...."

Brotaahg interrupted with a pointing finger and vicious words, "It ended there! It ended as you prepared to become Chief. I was made to work in the fields and cut the trees. When all the maidens of the village gathered around you, I was bringing the meat to your table, unseen by the one I had chosen.

"I vowed then that you would not control my life. You are Chief only in name! You do not hunt; you do nothing of value. You only walk about the village, surrounded by the Guards, snooping into the lives of real people."

Brotaahg glanced from side to side and with a quick and violent motion, reached inside his robe, took hold of and threw a long stone blade at Sahjeed Deeda. The men at his side loosed their knives at the Guards.

Shouts and screams ripped forward as Brotaahg's men pulled wood handled stone hatchets from their robes and plunged toward the Guards.

Sahjeed Deeda raised his left arm as Brotaahg released his knife, it sliced the thick muscle just below his elbow, tumbled, and slapped lengthwise against his chest. Sahjeed Deeda pedaled backwards, stumbled, fell on his back and looked up into the face of Brotaahg leering down at him.

Brotaahg raised his stone club then opened his eyes in surprise as a Guard plunged a spear into his throat. Sahjeed was sprayed with blood as he rolled away and sought a weapon.

The fight was brief as the Guards fell upon the men of the commune. Sahjeed Deeda stood gasping, his chest pumping as the Guards quieted the crowd and began searching for weapons.

A woman screamed and then another as several of the women of the commune burst forward, weapons in hand. Those not killed outright by the Guards; fell under the fury of other women from Brotaahg's group.

"My Chief!" Gasped First Guard Duulaat as he rushed to Sahjeed Deeda's side, "You have been wounded!"

The Chief covered the slowly bleeding gash on his arm with his hand, and nodded to Duulaat's shoulder where a small but deep looking cut oozed blood down his chest. "You too, my friend," he looked around and shouted for the Healer.

Shaweena Deeda looked up, glanced at the Chief and the First Guard, "In a moment, my Chief, this is more serious!" She went back to tending a Guard who had a long gash across his stomach, her hand stanching a heavy flow of blood.

A young woman, tall and thin with unkempt hair and smudges on her face came to Sahjeed Deeda, cleaned the wound with a liquid that brought hot pain, covered the wound with a brownish green salve and tightly wrapped his arm. She turned to the First Guard and tended his wound in the same manner then left without a word.

The badly injured Guard was carried away, other wounded attended to and the dead removed. The Guards surrounded the remaining members of the commune. Sahjeed Deeda stood silent, his arm throbbing, his thoughts cascading, falling into a void.

"There are others who have been accused, step forward as your name is called!" Sahjeed Deeda spoke firmly and coldly.

Eight men, two of them young boys were called forward.

One at a time the men were judged by the People; they were ordered to turn and look away. "How say you? Shall he live or die?" Asked the Chief.

Thumbs up or down, many each way, in each case the People were uncertain. When the first of the young boys stepped forward, only one thumb in the crowd was down. The Chief paused and looked through the crowd again and then approached the bent, white haired woman who had given the thumb down.

"Old woman, you have suffered much?" Asked Sahjeed Deeba.

"They should all die for what they have done!" She hissed.

The Chief looked at the two boys and hesitated, "Do the boys always wear those bright red head bands?"

The old woman glanced at the boys, "Yes, just like when they stole my food and beat my son! They should die!"

Ahjeed Deeda turned aside, "Thank you Elder, I regret what has happened to you."

The boys wore no headbands.

The Chief faced the men who had been accused, "The People have decided that you are not to die."

A great sigh of relief went up from the People and from those before them.

"Your crimes against the People are serious and can not go unpunished. You will serve a full season working on the trails. You will remain outside the village, under guard at all times. You may speak among yourselves, but not to anyone in the village. If you do not accept these terms, if you try to escape or refuse to work, your life will be forfeit. How say you?"

A piercing scream came from the crowd and a young girl ran forward and fell sobbing at the Chief's feet. "He did nothing! He tried to help me! Please, he came only for me, do not punish him so hard. Please, my Chief!"

Ahjeed stood silent as the men before him fell on their knees and reached their arms out, declaring their acceptance and obedience.

The Chief nodded and the Guards took the men, all of them, away. He turned to Duulaat, "Have the Healer join me."

"Yes, my Chief."

Sahjeed Deeda's mother met them as they entered the lodge and whisked the swollen-eyed girl away. Shaweena Deeda inspected the bandage on the Chief's arm, "The girl who does not speak did well. It will scar, without stitches, my Chief."

"Then it will scar, Healer; the rest of the men?"

"The stomach wound is bad, I could not put the tube that brought forth the blood back together, and I had to close it to save his life. If the wound turns sour he may not live. The others will survive."

They turned as Sahjeed Deeba's mother brought the young girl back into the room.

"She is called, Laawaleeah, my son, she is very frightened."

Sahjeed Deeda smiled at her as they sat, inside, away from curious eyes.

"La ah wa lee?" Stumbled the Chief.

The girl showed a wan smile, "It is hard for many, my Chief, please call me 'leeah."

Sahjeed Deeda nodded toward his mother and the Healer, "I thought it would be easier for you to speak if they were here."

The girl lowered her head, "I came only to speak for Alahbaand and his brother. He came only to be with me; his little brother goes where he does. They did no wrong, my Chief. They should not be punished."

Ahjeed Deeda looked long and hard at the girl, "You show great courage to come before me and speak for the boy." He looked into her eyes again, "But you have yourself to think of, too. You may speak with my mother, or the Healer, alone if you wish. 'leeah, I think you must share the burden with another so that you may go on living without shame. You are not to blame for..."

"No, no, Please, I can't," she screamed and broke into sobs. "I just can't!"

Both women rushed to her; Sahjeed Deeda stepped outside where Duulaat stood vigilant.

"I have failed you, my Chief, I am dishonored; I am no longer the First Guard, you must choose another. I am sorry."

Sahjeed Deeda studied Duulaat as he spoke, "How is your wound, my friend?"

Duulaat raised his arm slightly and looked down. The Healer says the muscle is not torn, it should heal with no problems."

"Good!" Smiled the Chief, "I will have a small scar to remember the time I did not think far enough ahead. It was my lack of foresight, First Guard, not yours. I did not think they would try to kill me. It happened so fast, there was no warning. Why did they even try? They had no chance and what would they have gained if they did kill me? I do not understand."

"Forgive me, my Chief, but you have no sons, there are none of your line that would be named Chief. Had he lived and not you, he might have been our Leader." Duulaat looked hard at Ahjeed Deeda, "It is a thing that should be settled, and soon."

The Chief's face was impassive, then fell, "I did not foresee the possibility of my death, nor did I know of the hatred he held for me. Much of what he said contains some truth. I do not lead, I manage; I look after the People. I do not hunt except for pleasure, I do not work in the forest or the fields."

Duulaat spoke angrily, "There is no truth in what he said! Until now this has been a peaceful village, the People are happy; they work at what they choose, they help each other, they have great pride in this village. Have you thought why we are the largest gathering of all the People? Have you thought of that? It is because you look after the People, care for them, and seek justice for them! They know that! They see you every sun time, walking among them, seeing them as they work and live. No, my Chief, cast those thoughts out of your head."

Shaweena came out of the lodge, "My Chief, the girl is very frightened that you will have the boy punished. She will speak with you and only you, if you still wish to hear."

The girl came slowly onto the deck, "I would not have even the walls of your lodge hear my words, my Chief."

Sahjeed Deeda smiled at her and offered his hand, "I know a place I often go to be alone."

"It was my mother who thought we should join with them." Laawaleeah sat for a long while watching and listening to the small fast moving stream before she spoke.

"My father loved to work with wood and build things, but he had to hunt for us and make his own tools. They said he could spend all his time building and that others would hunt and do the other work. My mother made clothes, she was happy doing that and not having to cook or prepare hides. I had only to help here and there and learn about all the woman things I needed to know.

"We were happy for almost a full season, everyone was cheerful; we ate together at a big table and there was plenty of everything for everyone.

"Even after some of the leaders quit working, there was still enough, but everyone had to work a little harder."

The girl paused for a moment and closed her eyes.

"There was a rumor that a friend of mine was forced to, ah...but I never saw her again. I heard she ran away. We were told not to talk about it.

"In the cold time, things got very bad. There was little food and it was always cold. Everyone worked harder but there was never enough. It was said that they sold or traded what we made, but we had nothing.

"Then there was no wood to build with and no material for clothing and we all had to hunt for food and firewood. But the leaders seemed to always have food and all they needed.

"It was about then that I met Alahbaand, when I was picking up wood in the forest. We talked and he started bringing me food to take back with me."


The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 02



TWO 

Sahjeed Deeda noticed there were more guards but he did not mention it. Each first light, as had his father, the Chief walked the loosely fenced perimeter of his village. He observed the condition of the structures, the pathways through the village and the cleanliness throughout. If he paused at something he didn't like, it was fixed before the next first light.

There was considerable activity around the compound where the commune had been. Sahjeed watched and spoke with several people as they sought out their belongings. He then announced himself at an Elders lodge.

A stocky man with mostly gray hair squinted his eyes and moved closer. "Ah, Chief, what can I do for you?"

"You manage the lands of the People in the village?"

"Yes, yes and quite a mess, what with that fracas. It will take several suns just to sort it all out. Oh my, yes, all confused."

Sahjeed gave the man an icy stare, "By mid-sun, each family will have land to live on. Before the dark arrives, they will have a place to stay. Get more help if you need it." He turned and walked away. 

The Chief stopped next at the First Builder of the village. The man listened carefully as Sahjeed explained, "It may be that the compound should be torn down or kept and used as something else. There might be the need for several lodges to be built quickly. See me for anything you need."

The man nodded and watched as Sahjeed walked away.

The next stop was at the largest and best-kept lodge in the village after the Chief's. Although it was early, people were coming and going carrying various objects.

Sahjeed was met as he went up the steps.

The man smiled and bowed slightly, "Chief Sahjeed Deeda, it is a pleasure to see you. Please come in. I have a new tea you should try, very good. Please."

Sahjeed followed him into the lodge, through a busy front area and into a heavily decorated room with a large fireplace. Two young attractive girls smiled, arranged a chair and stood quietly by.

"Trader Domohaas, you live well and have lovely daughters." 

"Thank you, my Chief. Shall they bring tea and perhaps a small repast?"

"Yes, thank you."

"A very sad and tragic affair of last sun. But it is for the better I think," said Domohaas.

"How so, trader?"

Domohaas looked uneasy for the first time, "My Chief, I trade things, buy and sell things, items that People want and need. I have done this for many, many seasons. The people come back time and again because they know I always give good measure for what I receive. I do not cheat, I do not steal, I do not give bad for good, nor take bad for good.

"For my service, I take a small part of each trade. Much of that, I invest in things that people will need, but perhaps not at the moment. The People trust that I will be fair and give good measure and this I do."

Sahjeed had been waiting for an answer, "Yes, I understand, you are trusted and liked, Domohaas, but there is more?"

The rotund man adjusted himself in the chair, smiled and waved his hand as the girls brought tea.

When they left, he leaned forward. "Some of those of the compound took without giving in return. They threatened to burn my lodge. They warned me not to complain. I cringed each time they came and learned not to speak as they took what they wanted." He took a quick furtive sip of tea.

Ahjeed Deeda straightened as Domohaas spoke, "I am shamed to admit that I knew nothing of this, Trader. Are there goods of yours that might be still in the compound? I would have them returned."

The Trader smiled and sat back in his chair, "I did not think you were aware, my Chief, I am glad to know that. I would be pleased to donate whatever remains in the compound to those who must begin anew. I would also help by making things available until they can properly trade."

Sahjeed Deeda smiled, "You foresee my mission, Domohaas, yes, some will need help. I have made arrangements for new land and lodges to be available as quickly as possible."

"Good, good," said the Trader, "They will need many things. Ah, my Chief, I perhaps take advantage, but I regret to add that many of the Seers also take without giving. I would never hesitate to provide food, but they take many valuable things, things that people work very hard to make. I must make up the loss by giving of my own. It troubles me but I have found it difficult to speak to the Elders or to you. If I offend...?"

Sahjeed smiled grimly, "Trader, you offend only in that you did not tell me sooner. I hesitate to ask if there is more I should know?"

"The Seers also use young women; my daughter came to me in fear. I threatened, he backed off, but he did not apologize."

The Chief rose, red faced and tight lipped, "I will see to this as well, Trader. Thank you for your hospitality, the tea is excellent; I must leave before I display bad manners."

Duulaat and the Guards followed Sahjeed Deeda at a quick pace as he left the village and walked halfway to the next before turning back.

He shared what he had learned with the First Guard.

"Did you know of these things, Duulaat? Do others know?"

The First Guard considered his words before speaking, "Many knew of those in the commune, my Chief; few about the Seers, People are leery of those who talk with the Spirits."

Sahjeed came to a stop. "So I am the last to know.... Duulaat, I find a bad taste in my mouth when I speak with some of those I consult for information about the People of the village. Do they serve the People well? Are they honest?"

"No my Chief, they are slow and uncaring, one must offer much more than one should for any service or it does not get done. I am sorry, my Chief."

Chief Sahjeed Deeda went quiet for a long while, breathing in and out regularly, fingering pinches of dirt and pine needles, and drawing circles within circles.

"First Guard, was it not just last sun that you spoke of how the People were happy, how they loved the village and their lives here? I know you said those things. They do not match with what has happened and what I have learned. Can you explain that?"

"My Chief, we are not perfect. Our village is not perfect. But, if you do not know, take my word; it is the best of them all. Perhaps we should try to be better, but that is not for me to understand."

Sahjeed Deeda, Chief of his People, walked the village at dawn as his father before him. He caught a glimpse, as he often did, of the girl who had bandaged his arm. She never came close, staying hidden in the brush and behind trees. He saw her only when he looked for a long time.

He left instructions for Domohaas the Trader to oversee the distribution of goods left in the commune's compound. He saw that all who had lived in the compound were re-settled; only one lodge was left on the original plot of land. Some of the homes had been moved to other sites, others were torn down and the material re-used in other dwellings.

Sahjeed had sat with each of the men who managed the details of village life and learned what they did. He did not criticize but asked how the fields were divided and the berry patches and wood lots were assigned.

He did not show that same patience or understanding with Saybaahnd, the village Seer and his apprentices. The cynical old man quavered under Sahjeed's curses and paled under the orders for the Seers to live outside the village and provide for themselves. The Chief placed each of the Holy men under three times the service given by the others, to make amends for what they had taken. Sahjeed Deeda gave an order of silence to the Seers, an order that if broken, would result in the death of those who had taken women.

Duulaat, the First Guard, drove himself and the Guards relentlessly after the attack. Sahjeed watched as he belittled those who had grown heavy around the waist. He ran them until they collapsed and had them fight mock battles leaving welts and bruises. Salahbaand, the young brother left behind, did not run and seemed to delight in the hard physical training of the Guards.

Sahjeed Deeda thought about the young couple as he watched the boy train and later in the day, shivered at the coincidence of the arrival of a runner with news of Alahbaand and Laawaleeah. They had settled in well and were happy. Sahjeed sought out the young boy and told him of his brother.

It became a regular daily habit to have tea with Domohaas the Trader. They talked of many things, Sahjeed found him to be knowledgeable about all the different occupations of the villagers. Domohaas was also a valuable source of information about the families, who could be trusted and who not.

Sahjeed smiled as the Trader plied him with different foods and drinks and creations of the People.

"This is the true center of the village," Sahjeed mused one day while sipping a mint and berry tea. "I had always thought that most things began at the Chief's lodge. It does not surprise me now to understand why I am usually the last to know of things that go on."

Domohaas laughed heartily, "It is the day to day things that pass though my doors, Sahjeed Deeda, it is the life of the People. They come to trade what they have for what they need. They come to hear of old friends and learn new things. I can think of no other thing I would rather do." 

Domohaas looked hard at Sahjeed, he swung his arm and pointed around the room. "None of this would be possible without a, well... a framework, like the inner walls of a lodge. I have long thought about why our village is different and better than all the others. Much of what we do started long ago. We carry on the dreams and the visions of those who first built this village, who gave it direction.

"I do as my father did, and his father. My family name does not go back as far as does yours, my Chief, but Domohaas has been the name of the Trader for more seasons that the Seers can chant. As I carry on, so do you; you keep that framework of our People in place so we can live and trade and carry on in peace."

Domohaas signaled for his daughters to freshen their drinks. He watched as they fawned over the Chief.

"Sahjeed Deeda, I worry about you."

Sahjeed raised his eyebrows.

Domohaas threw his hands up before him. "You don't know, do you? I have daughters that half the young men in this village follow every time they leave my lodge. They have learned your habits, your likes, your dislikes; they smile, they bend, they touch, they rub against you and you never notice!"

Sahjeed Deeda turned red and shrugged his shoulders, "It is true, I have not seen what you say. I look forward to my visits here. I learn from you Trader, I do not come here to play games with your daughters, lovely though they are."

Domohaas rose quickly, shaking his hands before him, "Oh, my Chief, I meant no offense. In my way I was trying to say that I have those who will carry on my name and my work and I worry that you will leave no one and you are much more important. Please, I meant only that."

Sahjeed studied the Traders face and then smiled, "I understand. I do not think of that often, but I have, more and more since the attack. I cannot explain, but I look upon the women of the village as my children. I never see them any other way. I sometimes wish I could." Sahjeed Deeda offered his hand, "Thank you once again, you are a generous man, ah, with pretty daughters."



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 03



THREE

He took his evening meal on the covered deck, eating in silence as the shadows lengthened. He gazed off in the distance as thoughts he always held closely under control drifted into his mind.

Maraleesa still smiled that special smile; she still tossed her hair and teased him with her eyes. 

"Sadness surrounds you, my son. I would listen."

Sahjeed twitched and blinked and sat up, "The food was excellent, as always, my mother. You take good care of me, you have for all my days."

She smiled sadly, "One day I will not be here, Sahjeed, I worry what you will do."

"It must be my day," he smiled, "Domohaas the Trader, pointed out his daughters and reminded me I have no sons to carry on. Oh, and I had news of the young couple we joined, they do well"

"I am happy for them; Domo's girls? It would be a good match, his children are quick and very practical about things," she smiled. 

Sahjeed Deeda reached across the table and took his mother's hands, "I sometimes think I have lost something I can never find again. When I looked upon Maarleesa, my heart sang, I felt silly because I smiled all the time. When I thought about her as I walked I would trip over a blade of grass and bump into trees. I can see the curve of her neck and the shape of her eyes as clearly now as I did when she...." He took his hands back and turned away. 

She sat in silence for a moment.

"My son, the hardest part of being a mother is finding that you cannot help a broken heart, you cannot replace a missing piece. I still believe I should be able to soothe your pain as I could when you were a child. She is gone, but I cannot tell you to let her go."

Sahjeed sighed, "It is not my choice to see her face when I close my eyes. I am reminded of her scent when I pick a flower. Ah, I must stop this. Is there something sweet to finish such a fine meal?"

She smiled and pushed lightly against his shoulder, "Always hungry is my son the Chief. There are fresh berries; a young girl stopped by and left them just for you. Do you know who she is? She was untidy and looked like she could use a bath."

Sahjeed tilted his head, "She tended my wound and I think she is the same girl that follows when I walk the village. I do not know who she is or why she seems always near."

Sahjeed and First Guard Duulaat walked side by side as the light turned a paler shade of gray. A light mist rose from the river and low clouds scudded before a westerly breeze.

"We don't often get rain this time of the season," said Duulaat.

"It smells like rain, we need it, the woods are dry. How is Rahseeta?"

Duulaat glanced at Sahjeed, "She is well, my Chief, she will be pleased that you asked."

He nodded, "Something you said, First Guard, that I would have left no one to follow me and several other things. I spoke with my mother about Maarleesa. I found myself thinking about her, about you and Rahseeta; we were all such good friends when we were young. I try to imagine all four of us together, grown up, with children of our own, I...."

Duulaat stopped suddenly, open pain on his face, "Sahjeed, I have never said...but...we cannot have children, Rahseeta recovered from the illness but something happened, she has no moon cycle...." Duulaat turned away.

"I am so sorry, my friend, I didn't know. I, uh, I have not wanted to see your mate and be reminded of those times. I didn't think...."

"She misses her too, she cries in the dark at the loss of what we all had, for what might have been. I fear sometimes that she won't stay with me, with us; sometimes she stays inside for many suns and does not speak."

They walked in silence around the village until they returned to the starting point.

"I must remind you, my Chief, that the meeting of all the Leaders is to be in our village this moon, it is perhaps one hand of days from now."

"Thank you, First Guard; perhaps you and Rahseeta would join me for an evening meal?"

"I will ask her," said Duulaat.

Sahjeed surprised both of Domohaas's daughters by holding his elbows out until they laughed and each took him by an arm into the inner room. It was then Sahjeed's turn to be startled, as he looked closely at one then the other and back to the first. 


He gasped, "You are the same! Your looks, you are both this high and, and..."

Domohaas bellowed a laugh as he walked up to them, "So you finally noticed! I had them fix their hair the same and wear the same dress before and you looked through them.

"Chief Sahjeed Deeda, I would have you meet my daughters, Ceelahaas and Leelahaas, Leela has a small imperfection here on her neck just below the ear. That is how I can tell them apart until she covers it with her hair."

Smiling, Sahjeed lightly embraced both girls who giggled and left the room.

"Do I sense a change in you, my Chief?" asked Domohaas.

Sahjeed mouthed a wry smile, "Several things, you included, have pointed out to me that I grow older every day. It came as a shock to me that I might not live forever. Domohaas, I have a question for you."

"Of course. How can I help?"

"I have thought about your many trades, different items, different people and when and how much. How do you keep track of it all? How do you know for certain that you have made a proper trade and remember it?"

Domohaas's eyes sparkled and a huge grin wrinkled his face, "Ah, my Chief, how I have hoped you would ask that question. How much time can you give me?"

"As long as it takes, Trader, I want to know."

Domohaas led Sahjeed for the first time through a secret door and down a stairway. They carried candle bowls and descended into cool air.

"Under the earth?" asked Sahjeed.

"Outside my household, no one knows of this place," said the Trader.

They sat across from each other at a large square table; Domohaas lit more bowls and placed them carefully. He seemed nervous and hesitant.

"My Chief, what I show you here is the heart of what I do. I learned it all from my father. To my knowledge no one else knows what you are about to learn.

"I could not by myself or with my sons and daughters remember exactly everything we do. I could not trade as I do without this knowledge. Craftsmen and artists have tricks about how they do their work, they discover something and only they know it. They do not give their methods away.

"I will give you my, a, my magic, for surely it seems like magic. I want you to know about it, I am excited about it and proud. But I have my fears."

Domohaas reached under the table and brought forth a large skin pouch and several smaller ones. He took what looked like rolls of bark from the large container, opened the bark and placed a stone on each corner to hold it down.

Sahjeed watched with interest as Domohaas placed an assortment of thin sharp sticks and several long feathers on the table. He poured a dark liquid into a small bowl and looked across the table.

The Chief returned the gaze, and then followed the Trader's hands with his eyes.

Domohaas showed one hand with his fingers spread wide apart. He took a sharpened stick. Dipped it into the bowl and made four straight lines on the white inside of the roll of bark. He looked up and placed his thumb across his palm to his little finger and drew a diagonal line across the four straight lines on the bark.

"One hand, written down," said the Trader.

He did the same with his other hand.

"Two hands, written down."

Sahjeed's eyes widened as he began to comprehend.

"Now," Domohaas laid one hand on top of the other and drew an, X, on the bark. "Another way to write two hands."

Sahjeed blinked, staring, trying to understand.

Domohaas drew four lines again and a diagonal line, then he drew a separate diagonal line, standing by itself. He drew four more lines and another diagonal and reached to cross the first.

"I see it! I see. I understand. Those crossed lines represent two hands of numbers of things or items. I see." Sahjeed was wide-eyed.

The Trader's eyes glittered, "I have words for each number of two hands and more! Many more! Look, Sahjeed! /, One hand, or five! X, two hands, or ten, XX, four hands! And Ahjeed, here, look at this, XX/, five hands, XXX, six hands! Do you see, do you see it?"

Sahjeed was astounded, "Trader! Have you any idea how long I have thought of how to say something other than one hand or two hands? And all the time you had it here!"

Domohaas was overjoyed, "There is more, Chief! Much more. Will you hear it now?"

"My head is spinning, but yes, what more do you have?"

"Time, my Chief, the passing of each sun, that is what I have. In my trading, I need to know when something happened or when it will happen. Sahjeed Deeda, I must tell you, this is not my doing. You hear my father's words and his father's. I was but an unwilling student, even as I helped in the business, until I began to realize what this knowledge did for me.

"We have the seasons, right? The cold season, the hot season and we begin a new season in the deep of the cold when the sun is low and the light time is short. How do we know this?"

Sahjeed shrugged his shoulders and shook his head.

"The Legends of the Lights, my Chief. The chants of my family tell of men who stayed awake each dark and watched the lights and the dark sky. And those who followed the sun from when and where it rose until it set. They watched the moon as it rose and set and as it changed from small to large. They made marks on tree bark and on large hides like these."

Domohaas unrolled a large cream-colored hide with many black markings.

"In one complete season, the moon comes full and goes away many times. When the moon is half, then half of half coming and going...."

Sahjeed grunted and groaned and put his hands on his head, "Stop, Trader! No more! I must think."

Domohaas's face fell, "I said too much, too fast my Chief, I...."

"No, my friend, it is just that what you say is so huge, so important. I am overwhelmed; I have many questions. You put the marks on the bark and the hide and they are as speaking that can be seen. How much of our words can be made as marks? How can you remember what the marks mean?"

The Chief was breathing hard in excitement and confusion. Domohaas smiled and drew out yet another large hide covered with marks in a line down the side.

The Trader was proud as he explained, "I have a special mark for each that I trade with. That person carries with him the same mark on a small piece of wood or stone. He also can mark what he trades with his own figure that will match with my copy. 

"We know each other by our marks." He pointed to other figures alongside the mark identifying the person, "This person brought me four, see the mark, cured deer hides of excellent quality on the fifth sun of the sixth moon. He took nothing in return." The trader pointed out each mark as he explained.

The Chief sat still for several moments gazing unfocused across the table. "You keep all this from the People?"

Domohaas frowned, "No my Chief, I do not. Those who trade with me must understand as much as they can to know that I deal fairly with them. They learn only what they need. Only you have asked. Even my sons and daughters just learn; they do not wish to study or to know. I will not burden you, but there is more, that of measures and lengths and size."

Sahjeed Deeda grimaced, "Not this sun, Trader. Domohaas, do you have the patience to show this willing but slow student that which you know? I will find a way to return the value in turn."

Domohaas grinned widely and bustled about, putting the room in order, "You are not slow, my Chief, and I will gladly share all I know. In return, you need only do as you have, impose fair trade and justice on the People. That is the greatest thing you can do for me and my family."

Sahjeed Deeda left the Trader's lodge in a daze, but did not forget to smile at each of his daughters.

The Chief continued his early walks of the village; he caught a glimpse of the girl again and motioned to her. She did not come to him but slipped out of sight behind tangled vines.

"I do not understand this girl, First Guard. Do you know of her?"

Duulaat looked to the spot where she had disappeared. "Very little, my Chief. She comes and goes from the village, the People are kind to her, she helps with children, and she brings fruits and small gifts. No one knows where she sleeps or who her family is. It is said she does not speak and perhaps cannot hear sounds, I do not know."

Sahjeed turned and continued his tour. 

"Did you remember to ask your mate to come for a meal at my lodge?

The First Guard hesitated, "She was strange, my Chief, she did not say yes, but that if I chose, she would go. I have puzzled over this, but if you wish, we will come this sun."

"Fine, good," smiled Sahjeed, "My mother cooks well, but she does not share the meal with me. It will be nice to have others at my table. I will tell her at mid-day."

A village man, bare-chested, wearing only a loincloth, prodded by a short angry woman, approached Sahjeed as he walked near the area of the compound.

"Forgive me, my Chief," The man bowed his head and looked down.

"You wish to speak?" asked Sahjeed.

"Ah, my mate, she is, well...."

The woman stepped forward, "We were cheated! My neighbor's land is much bigger! It is not fair! They made an arrangement with the Land person! It's not right, we...."

The Chief raised his hand; "Show me."

Sahjeed Deeda walked the perimeter of each plot of land. One was much small than the other.

"First Guard, would you have Laabasaat, the Land Manager and Domohaas, the Trader, join us here?"

"Yes, my Chief," said Duulaat.

Domohaas brought a son with him; the Land Manager was very nervous and squinted continuously.

The Trader sent his son back to his lodge for a long length of twisted hide and writing materials. Domohaas made the measurements, a quick sketch and added numbers around the sides.

The Trader glanced at the Land Manager then stiffly spoke to Sahjeed, "Both plots are smaller than the custom has been, one is much smaller."

"How could this happen, Manager? I do not understand," said Sahjeed Deeda.

The Land Manager perspired heavily and did not meet any eyes, "I do not know, I walk the same number of steps each time, perhaps the steps were shorter, I do not know."

Domohaas swallowed largely, stiffened his body and did not look at the Chief's eyes when he spoke, "Land Manager Laabasaat controls more land than anyone in the village. He charges those who live upon it, or if it is wooded he takes part of the wood."


Sahjeed Deeda's eyes bulged and his jaws were tight, he stood nose to nose with the Land Manager, "The People would tear you apart, limb by limb." The Chief paced and saw the villagers who had stopped him.

"Your land will be measured again and you will have the proper amount. I offer my apology. You did right in telling me of this. You will leave us now."

When they were gone, Sahjeed turned to the Land Manager. "All the land you hold is forfeited and returned to the village. You and all your apprentices will serve the People on the trails for a whole season." 

The Chief looked long and hard at the man; "You represented the leadership of this village. You acted in my name. You have betrayed me, and the People you serve. I do not wish to ever look upon your face again. Take him away!"

Sahjeed Deeda had spoken angrily, it was some time before he calmed.

"Trader, would you accept a position as advisor to the Chief? Your first task would be to find a replacement for the Land Manager, one that will be fair and just to the People. How say you?"

Domohaas bowed, "I would be honored to serve, my Chief. There are not many who are qualified to serve in such a way, but I will find the best."

"Thank you, Trader. I am in your debt once again," said Sahjeed. "As we are near the compound, I would have you go through the remaining areas and dispose of the goods."

"Yes, my Chief," answered the Trader.

At mid-day, Sahjeed ate lightly and told his mother of the plans for the evening meal. She smiled, "I remember when I had to feed all of you every other sun. It will be good to have them here. It has been too long, my son."

Sahjeed Deeda followed an overgrown trail alongside the river outside the village. He came to a familiar place, stopped, and turned to Duulaat, the First Guard.

"We used to swim here, my friend, those were good times."

Duulaat smiled, "Yes, I remember, the girls brought food, we would spend the whole sun." The First Guard looked at the nearly barren hillside overlooking the sandy beach and the small stream that had eaten away a large gully. He leaned forward and stared up the hill and pointed, "There is someone up there."

Sahjeed followed his gaze, "So there is, let us climb up and take a look."

An old man watched them approach. He frowned as he recognized the Chief, "This is not your usual place to walk, my Chief, what brings you up here?"

Sahjeed studied the deeply creased face, white hair and strongly muscled arms of the old man. The blue tinged blood vessels on the back of his hands stood out in contrast to the scratched and deeply tanned flesh.

"You are the woodworker, Tobosaana, are you not?" asked Sahjeed.

The old man's grin showed gaps in his teeth, "I am called that, my Chief, but few remember. There is a reason you climbed this hill?"

Sahjeed smiled as he and Duulaat squatted down, sitting on their heels. "I was curious as to who was up here and what they might be doing. I can see now that you place small trees in the dirt. Does it not take a very long time for a tree to grow?"

"That it does my Chief. I will not live to see the sun when any good will come of my work. This once was a lovely wooded hill, now the cold time rains wash the earth down to the stream."

Sahjeed sighed, "Yes, in my mind, I too can see it as it was. It is in the chants of the People that they are not to take all the trees, but to leave enough to hold the soil and drop new seeds."

The old man stood and kicked the dirt, "It is out of sight of the village, but close. People do not always act, as they should. Perhaps when the children of my children are grown this hill will be beautiful again, but...."

Sahjeed tilted his head, "But what, woodsman?"

"I am an old man, my Chief. I am not unhappy with that, but my arms are weak, it takes my breath to climb this small hill. It gives me pleasure to think that I will leave these growing trees behind me when I join the Lights. I would be happier still if there were a way that my family could enjoy the fruit of my work. As it is, anyone can come to this place and take all the trees they want. I cannot live here and protect what I have done."

Sahjeed looked down and then across the hillside, "I understand. The land upon which your lodge stands, it will be passed to your oldest son, is that correct?"

"Yes, my Chief, that is the way of the People."

"That land, where you live, is your land; no others are permitted unless you give permission?"

The old man nodded, "You say things that everyone knows, my Chief, I do not understand why?"

Sahjeed Deeda smiled, "I go from what I know to what I do not know, Tobosaana. If the land you live on is yours to do with as you please, why not then other pieces of land, such as this?

"Woodsman, I will think on this and try to find a way that you and others who care for the land can gain from it. Thank you for opening my eyes honored Elder. May this sun go well for you."

The woodsman could find no words as he watched Sahjeed and the First Guard wind their way back down the hill. They paused to rest at the bottom alongside the creek.

"My Chief, over the past hand of suns, you have said and done things that have never been done before. I am sometimes without words when I finally understand what you have said and what it means." Duulaat only glanced at Sahjeed Deeda as he spoke.




The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 04



“Those are high ground flowers, my mother, they are very pretty, but you should not walk so far,” Sahjeed saw the table decoration and embraced her.

She smiled and patted his back, “I walked nowhere, my son. The young girl brought them and other things for this evening. I think she keeps a watch on me, or perhaps you?”

“I did not see her this sun,” Sahjeed stretched his arms and groaned lightly, “I will rest for a while and then get ready for this evening, please wake me if I sleep.”

He did not sleep but rested his eyes and let his thoughts wander. In his mind’s eye he was looking over a huge village crossed and re-crossed by many paths. He saw a large river and a snow covered mountain in the rising sun. He saw himself, old, gray and hobbled by pain. Sahjeed opened his eyes wide, gasping for air; he looked around the room, his heart thumping. 

Bathed and dressed in a fringed and decorated tunic, Sahjeed moved the table and looked down the path hoping to see Duulaat and his mate. He saw them a little later following the winding path that led through the trees. He watched as the woman walked slightly behind, her full skirt swaying from side to side.

Duulaat took her hand as they came up the steps to the covered deck. “My Chief, we are honored to be here.” The First Guard turned to greet Sahjeed’s mother as she came out of the lodge. Rahseeta raised her chin and looked into the Chief’s eyes.

Sahjeed Deeda caught his breath and held it. The awkward tall girl of his youth was now a beautiful woman in the prime of life. Her blouse exposed the tops of her full breasts, the belted waist surged to ample hips, her long hair swept over both shoulders and down the front. The Chief was stunned to silence by what he saw in her eyes.

She lowered her gaze and curtsied slightly, smiling. Her voice was soft and warm, “It is good to look upon you again, Sahjeed Deeda.” Her eyes twinkled and an impish grin teased her lips. “It is said you spend part of each day at the Trader’s lodge trying to learn which daughter is which.”

Sahjeed Deeda breathed again and chuckled, “You look wonderful, ‘seeta, it has been too long, far too long. The daughters of Domohaas seem inseparable, one would have to mate both to have either.”

Rahseeta laughed lightly and sweetly, “I would doubt that you could handle even one, my Chief, they are very spirited and independent.”

Sahjeed’s mother kissed Duulaat’s cheeks lightly and embraced Rahseeta, “Please be seated, Sahjeed has placed the table to view the setting sun, it looks to be a beautiful evening.”

Duulaat and Rahseeta sat together facing west; Sahjeed sat at the side, next to the First Guard. As food was placed on the table, Sahjeed reached out and took a hand with each in his, “It gives me a wonderful feeling in my heart to have you here. Let us use our names only and think of the times when we ran through these woods as the best of friends. I yearn for the endless days when I was just a boy.”

They laughed and joked and shared remembrances as they ate, the mood was light and happy and they were all pleased.

“Duulaat tells me all that happens that is not secret, Sahjeed. He thinks you are changing more than ever before. Is this true?”

Sahjeed smiled at Rahseeta’s words, the look in her eyes had mellowed to warmth and interest, “Before you arrived, I laid down and closed my eyes to rest. I did not sleep, I think I did not sleep, but I saw something that frightened me. I was old, very old, and there was another village with many more people than here. Duulaat is right, I am different, I feel different; I see things in other ways than I have before. I do not understand myself anymore. I am uneasy with it all.”

Duulaat leaned back in his chair, “We are still young men, Sahjeed. I spoke to the Elder of my family. He listened to me and smiled. He said that we have spent our lives so far just learning what we have been taught. 

“He says now is the time in our lives, both you and I, where we must begin to think for ourselves. He said that is a very frightening thing for some, that some see and never look again.

“I am First Guard of the People; it was known that I would be that. I have lived and done my duty as I was expected to do. Because I did not think on my own, I almost cost you your life. Suddenly, it was not just my duty, but also my life. I give oath that I will never place you in danger again.”

Sahjeed reached out for Duulaat’s arm, “I understand, my friend. We have spoken of this before. Each of us must become more of what we are supposed to be. I am grateful that we have another chance to do better.

“I have wanted to call a meeting of the People. I wanted to speak of the corruption of the commune, of the deaths that came of my ignorance. But it has come and gone and the People do not speak of it. That troubles me. I want to speak to the People of the Land Manager and how he cheated the People and the Seers who failed to serve, but I have held back. I must speak, but I do not yet know all that I should say.”

Rahseeta crossed her arms over her chest, “Your words cause me to feel cold inside, Sahjeed. I have always known that you and Duulaat have given your lives to the People. I never doubted that the things you did were right and were best for the People. I still do not doubt that now, but I feel uneasy, fearful of what is yet to come.”

Sahjeed smiled at Duulaat, “You did not speak to me of how well your mate understands and can say her thoughts. I think we should have talked long before now.” The Chief excused himself and returned a moment later with writing materials supplied by Domohaas. He spread them out on the table.

He smiled at Rahseeta, “I do not visit the Trader only to see his daughters. I have not spoken of this to anyone; I have feared I cannot explain so that it can be understood. Your words, ‘seeta, give me hope that you will see and help me talk.”

Sahjeed explained and demonstrated the marks that represented the fingers and the hands of numbers the People had always used. Rahseeta saw it quickly, Duulaat took longer, but the sudden realization showed on his face like the light of the rising sun.

“That changes everything!” Exclaimed the First Guard, “Now I can say the number of Guards I have without showing the hands, I can plan ahead for how many more are needed.”

“That is only the beginning of what Domohaas knows,” said Sahjeed. He then outlined the marks for keeping records and the patterns observed of the sun and moon and the lights in the sky.

“I shivered in my skin again, my Chief,” said Rahseeta as the soft beauty of her face hardened. "I would learn these things to be of service to the People.” She bowed her head and spoke quietly, “When I learned I could have no sons to carry on, I cried. I have cried for many seasons that I cannot be a woman. 

“I would learn and teach if you would permit, my Chief, if Domohaas would consent,” she turned slowly to Duulaat, “…and if my mate would agree.”

The First Guard’s eyes filled, “’seeta, my love, if it would make you happy again….”

“Yes, oh yes, Ahjeed, please?”

“Domohaas teaches his daughters, I will ask him.”

“Soon?” gushed Rahseeta, “When you next see him? Oh, please.”

Sahjeed smiled and reached for her hand, “Now you seem like the old ‘seeta, yes, I will ask him at mid-day next sun.”

Rahseeta couldn’t bear to wait until Sahjeed returned with the news. She followed him, keeping out of sight as he entered Domohaas’s lodge. She waited outside, pacing back and forth until the Chief came down the steps. She could not find her voice as he came close.

“The Trader will be impressed that you are so anxious. He will see you now, if you wish.”

“Now?” Gasped Rahseeta.

Sahjeed Deeda smiled widely, “I expected to see you here.”

She glared at him, “You mock me!”

He caught the fire in her eyes, “No, ‘seeta, I do not. I only remember you as a young girl. That Rahseeta would have been waiting to hear the news. I think I am happy she is still with us.”

She slowly raised her face and Sahjeed felt the look in her eyes. “I am in your debt, Sahjeed, more than you know.”



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 05



The ladies of the Guards, including Rahseeta and the twin daughters of Domohaas, who were not, swept into the Chief's lodge. As his mother gave directions, the women brought in extra chairs and stands and food and drink for the meeting of the Chiefs. 

They began to arrive at mid-sun so as to complete the meeting and return to their villages before the sun was gone.

Sahjeed Deeda greeted each as they arrived. They washed the trail dust off and took chairs and accepted drinks from the ladies. By custom, the last to enter was First Chief of all the People.

First Chief Beedawat had grown old without grace. He was in pain and cranky and easily irritated. He growled as he took a cold drink and waved his arms at the other Chiefs in an offhand greeting.

The noisy and sometimes rowdy conversations came to an end and it grew silent. The women left the room.

Beedawat looked around counting on his fingers, "Two hands and one and one," he grunted, "Have we lost another?"

"My son and his People," grunted Chief Brohdaak, "they wanted to hunt and travel and see new places. They left two hands ago toward the setting sun. Some of his People came here, it is said."

The First Chief had an edge to his voice, "Sahjeed Deeda, your village grows as all others lose People. Why is that?"

Sahjeed looked at the First Chief, "We turn no one away unless they have done a crime, but they must work and provide for themselves and give service to the village. It was once that way with all the People, First Chief."

The First Chief grunted loudly, "It is said you have had trouble here, Sahjeed."

"We have, it has been resolved," said Sahjeed.

"Your Seers live outside the village, it is said they look upon you with great anger."

"They are not above the ways of the People, First Chief, they took without giving; they treated many of the People very badly. When they serve the People as they should, they can perhaps return." Sahjeed was uneasy at the questions.

First Chief Beedawat groaned as he pulled his knee up and rubbed his foot, "I am no longer young. It is painful to rise from sleeping; I had to be carried to this meeting. From now on the meetings will be held in my village. I will travel no more.

"When I became First Chief, many, many seasons ago, the People were happy. The traveled from village to village to visit family, there was plenty to eat; they kept their lodges neat and clean inside and out.

"Now, entire villages pack up and leave. They cut all the wood, they hunt the game until there was none and they move on to a new place. Many people are unhappy. They move from village to village, looking for something, I know not what. There used to be many hands of villages, now we are barely two hands. Every village has fewer people...."

"People stay in my village!" shouted Brohdaak, "We have plenty of wood and enough food for all. My People do not complain, they....'

"Your People are slaves!" said a voice equally loud, "They stay only because you have fenced them in and patrol with armed guards...."

"How dare you speak to me with that voice!!" shouted Brohdaak as he rose from his chair, "I will...."

"You will what, Brohdaak? I am Galawaand, Chief of my People, I am not a slave; I am not a woman or a child you can push around. Step forward, I will break your loud mouth and they can carry you back to your happy village!"

"Quiet, Quiet! Sit down, both of you!" snarled the First Chief, "What kind of leaders are you to argue at a Chief's meeting. It is unheard of! Sit down!"

When it was quiet again the First Chief struggled to his feet, "You can see, and you know that the People have lost their way. Even our Legends have lost their power. The best of the Seers cannot say where our future lies.

"I came to this meeting with some hope. I thought perhaps those in this village had a path that we could all follow. They do not. Sahjeed Deeda for all his reputation has killed his own People and thrown his wise men into the forest. Would you say otherwise, Sahjeed Deeda?"

The room grew silent, even sounds of breathing quieted and they waited.

Sahjeed Deeda did not rise immediately and when he did it was slowly. He looked from face to face, "Not very long ago I faced a group of my People who had taken a wrong path. I did as my father would have done, as I was taught to do. 

"I brought those guilty before the People to have a reckoning. Because I did not know the evil I faced I nearly lost my life. Had I not tripped and fallen backwards, out of reach, I would not be here with you.

"I too, feel that something is very wrong with our People. First Chief Beedawat speaks truth. I do not know what the People should do. I do not have a way that they can follow.

"I will share with you a waking dream I had: I saw a large village, with many, many people. It was alongside the frozen river of our legends and an ice covered mountain reached into the sky toward the rising sun. 

"It is possible I will take those of my People who wish to go and search for the village I dreamed about. I have not shared this thought before this time. I may not do as I have said. I do not know. I have spoken."

Only the First Chief Beedawat and Chief Galawaand who had silenced Chief Brohdaak stayed as the meeting broke up.

"Sahjeed Deeda," said the First Chief, "If I had your youth and your dream, I would take the People to the village you saw in the vision. There is another matter I thought to bring before all but it did not seem proper. 

"You are nearest to the village of Suulumaag. He has not attended a Chief's meeting in nearly a season. I think he is too fat to travel, but he sends no one to represent him. I have rumors that several women have been lost from the village. They say perhaps to a bear or maybe a pack of wolves. I do not know.

"I also do not know why they have not taken care of the problem themselves. I was going to ask all the Chiefs for a few men each to send to Suulumaag's village and discover what is going on. As it has worked out, I cannot ask you to do this on your own."

The old man looked at Sahjeed with pleading and resignation in his eyes, "Do what you can, young Chief, I wish these were better times for us all."

Sahjeed and Galawaand who had stayed behind, watched as the old Chief made his way out of the room.

"I think I have never felt such sadness for my People," said Galawaand.

Sahjeed nodded his head slowly, "I am glad you stayed behind. I want to thank you for welcoming the two young people from my village. I trust they still do well?"

"Yes, Sahjeed, they do well, that is why I stayed. I was asked to tell you that the girl is not with child; at least not yet," he smiled, "They yearn for news of this village, they are a little homesick, I think." Galawaand paused, "I think there is much trouble in the village Beedawat asked you to visit. I have heard rumors of many bad things happening to the people there. If you decide to go, I will send some Guards with you."

"I have not thought on it, Galawaand, what are your feelings?"

"Several of my People have kin there, they are anxious to know who has fallen."

"Then I will send some men. How many would you think?" asked Sahjeed.

"Perhaps two hands, a hand from each of us. It should not be much trouble, a bear, some wolves," said Galawaand.

"When you send your men, have them bring the young couple for a visit with us."

"Good idea, my friend. In two suns or three, I want to give them some training."

The ladies of the Guard came shortly after Galawaand had left; the Chief's lodge was soon put back in order. Duulaat remained behind and Rahseeta surprised them both by asking to stay.

"Your mother is very tired, Sahjeed, I thought I would see if she needs anything."

"Thank you Rahseeta, that is very thoughtful of you."

"I heard shouting, my Chief, I was concerned and on the deck, ready," said First Guard, "The meeting did not go well?"

Sahjeed Deeda slumped into a chair on the deck, "Worse than you could ever imagine, Duulaat, much worse."

The Chief described what had happened.

Rahseeta returned to hear the last part of Sahjeed's recapitulation.

"Are you really thinking of moving the People to the frozen river?" she asked.

"Who will you send to the fat Chief's village? Asked Duulaat.

"I will speak to the People next sun, late," said Sahjeed Deeda.



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 06



SIX

The People gathered in the slightly sloping field below the Chief's lodge. Guards were positioned in front of him. Each person had been checked for weapons before they came onto the field.

Sahjeed Deeda watched from the deck of his lodge, waiting until people stopped coming.

He was surprised to hear the cheering and shouting as he approached and stepped up on the small speaking platform. Quiet slowly descended over the meadow.

"Some say you are tired of seeing me walk past your lodges as the sun rises."

Loud laughter and cheers broke out and continued for a moment.

The Chief smiled and raised his arms. "I have been proud to be the leader of this village. We are a good People, but some things that have gone on in this village trouble me. I cannot understand how such things could happen to families, to Elders, to children and to young men and women.

"I thought I understood you as you go about the details of living day by day. I did not expect to find the anger from those of the commune that is no more. 

"I was more than surprised to find that those I trusted to manage the affairs of the village failed to serve the People as they should have. 

"I have searched my mind to find where I had failed to protect the People of this village. I found few answers and questioned that I should continue to lead this village."

A tense stillness had come over the People as they began to realize that matters affecting everyone were at hand.

"First Guard of this village, Duulaat Deeda, whose family has served as First Guard since the time of Omaat, First Guard to Ahjeed, my long ago ancestor, spoke words that I shall never forget.

"He said, 'My Chief, we are a good People, but we are not perfect.' I thought, at the time, that he was trying to make me feel better about my failings. He said more than he knew, more than he knows yet.

"You know that all the Chiefs of all the People met last sun. You do not know that the First Chief of all the People, Chief Beedawat, shared with me his great fear that the People, as we know them, may soon be no more."

A hush fell over the crowd as all eyes strained to see Sahjeed's face.

"Once there were many hands of villages, now there are only two hands. Within the last moon, two whole villages have left the People. Our village here is the largest by far of all the villages of the People. We grow almost sun-to-sun as People from other villages seek a better life.

"We have had problems here, but from what I heard last sun, those from other villages would rather live here than anywhere else.

"There are great changes in the wind. I do not know where those changes will lead us. I will guarantee you these things: What we do, we will do together, those who Guard the village will protect it both suntime and darktime.

"I will soon name new people to serve the needs of the People. I will find other Far See-ers who will not betray the trust of the People. I feel that we must increase the number of Guards, I ask you to offer your services if you think you or your sons can learn to protect. 

"I, your Chief, call upon you to do your best work and if you have time and ability, offer your services, I need your help and your understanding.

"I ask you not to take fear from this meeting; rather a renewal of purpose, a dedication to the values that we as a People have always had. I have spoken."

"Trader, I come to you because I can find no one to bring me ideas outside my own head." Sahjeed was frustrated and apologetic.

"I am honored that you see me that way, my Chief. I am torn between my business, which requires more time than I have, and my sincere desire to serve the People above my trading. But, Sahjeed, do you understand that in my trading, I serve the People as well?

"People arrive from other villages with what they can carry. I help them get started on the promise that they will return the value when they are able. I am about to reach a point where I can give no more and yet they keep coming."

Sahjeed smiled as one of Domohaas's daughters came into the inner room with a tray of drinks and food. When she left, Sahjeed watched her.

"I envy the way they care for you, Trader. Enjoy them while you may."

"Before you take them away?" Teased Domohaas.

Sahjeed chuckled, "Probably not, Domohaas, but I have become accustomed to their presence when I visit. How does Rahseeta do in her learning of your ways?"

"The best student I have ever had! Better even than you, my Chief, she is focused on nothing else and begins to challenge my understanding. She says that Duulaat learns as she does but I do not see him. My daughters do not trust her, but they are women, ah, Sahjeed... she asks much of what you do and say."

"We were young together, we share many memories. Have you found someone to keep records of the lands of the People for me?"

"In a word, no. In another word, yes; my son is going through all the records and will have a complete picture when I do find someone. You know I share your frustration in the lack of those who would serve but cannot. Are there so few that can think?"

"I come to you for answers, Trader, not questions. Perhaps we look in the wrong places, what of the young? Those who can still learn?" Asked Sahjeed.

"Maybe, but they learn their father's skills and have no time for what we do," said Domohaas.

"I must leave," said Sahjeed, "Those who go to the village across the river will leave at first light. I send two guards and some of those who were given trail duty from the commune. 

"Trader, before I go, I want you to think on something. The land rights given to the men of the village that can be passed on to their sons; can I give other land in such a way? That it may be cared for and benefit those who are given rights and no others?"

Domohaas stared at Sahjeed for a long moment, "My Chief, you can give land to whom you choose and the People will obey. But if I understand your thoughts, you want a standard that applies to all. 

"The land is there. Who can claim it or what it bears. I, ah, oh, I see, that is a sticky questions is it not? I will give it some thought."

Sahjeed looked and listened as an excited group of men, young and old, talked and joked and jousted each other about. Duulaat looked angry and frustrated. 

"They seem to think a rogue bear or a pack of wolves is of no concern, my Chief. They are anxious to leave but I have doubts that their thinking is right. The hide boats are ready, it is only a sun's journey to the village, they should return in less than a hand of suns."

"Send them off, First Guard, I hope it will be good training for them."

"Yes, my Chief."

Alahbaand held back, but Laawaleeah ran down the steps of the Chief's lodge, jumped into Sahjeed's arms and buried her face in his neck. Sahjeed laughed and swung her around and reached for the boy's hand. 

"It is good to see you! You make me feel like a father. I am pleased that you are so happy. Come, let us eat and drink and you can tell me of all that has happened."

It was mostly happy talk of their life together and the friends they had made. 'Leeah bubbled over her new lodge and the furnishings and the first place of her own.

"Galawaand is worried, he has doubled the guards and has them training hard. He has runners that bring messages from other villages, they seldom bring good news," said Alahbaand.

Sahjeed smiled as he watched them touch shoulders and hips and gaze into each other's eyes. 

"The room you had before is ready for you. This dark you have no responsibilities and there will be guards waiting to take you back whenever you wish. Pay your regards to my mother before you leave and, ah, I don't know how to say how pleased I am that you are happy and have come to visit me. I hope that soon we can share the same village."

Sahjeed and his mother stood on the deck and waved as the young couple skipped down the steps and hurried to join the guards that would take them back to their village.

"I am tired, my son," said Sahjeed's mother as she held on to his arm. "Can you find a mid-day meal for yourself, I think I will rest. So much has been happening. I would like to be still and think of old things this sun."

Sahjeed smiled and gently placed his hand on her cheek. "It has not been an easy life, as mate to a Chief and mother to another. I will have someone bring you something at mid-sun if you wish."

"I just need to rest." 



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 07



Sahjeed Deeda awoke to a cold lodge and an empty table. He hurried to his mother’s room, placed a hand on her forehead and ran to find Shaweena Deeda, Healer of the village.

“She is too warm, my Chief, her breathing is not quite right, I would guess she has some congestion in her chest. In other words she has a cold time sickness and is worn out. She needs to rest and be taken care of for a few suns.”

Shaweena used her long seasons of experience to ease Sahjeed from the room and about his own business. Ladies of the Guards came and went, taking over management of the Chief’s lodge.

Sahjeed Deeda found himself in Domohaas’s private room trying to comprehend the observations that would lead to the days and weeks and months that made up a year determined by the motion of the sun and the moon. His thoughts were not with the phases of the moon.

Shaweena, the Healer assured Sahjeed that his mother was resting well and left him alone with her as the night came on full.

Sahjeed Deeda, Chief of the People of his village, was speechless at first light when he looked in on this mother and he saw a feminine form curled up next to her on her sleeping pallet. He opened his mouth to speak then closed it and waited outside.


The girl ignored him as she came and went from his mother’s room with washing water and drinking water and food and fresh clothing. Without knowing why, Sahjeed Deeda waved away the Healer and other ladies of the Guards who came to help. They backed off blinking their eyes, looking at each other and at Sahjeed.

The girl finally stopped moving around and came before Sahjeed. She bowed, dropped to her knees and placed her hands on the floor before him.

He looked at her long dark hair, the width of her shoulders, her back, her waist, and her hips. She was not a child. She did not move.

“Please stand up, I want to talk to you. Who are you? Asked Sahjeed.

She did not move or answer.

After a moment, he leaned forward and touched her shoulder.

She sat up, squinting her eyes and moving slightly closer to him.

“Who are you?” asked Sahjeed.

“Ah…can…not…see…words…do…not…hear…only help…mother of Chief…she will be… better…in…ah…” she held up three fingers, “…this many suns…not woory…not bad sick…well….sooon….”

Sahjeed Deeda looked at the girl as she spoke. In trying to see him clearly, her face showed lines of intense concentration, her eyes seemed to come in and out of focus, she kept her mouth open and he could hear her with each breath she took.

Sahjeed Deeda did not know what to do or say. He sat watching her until she rose and went back into his mother’s room. She sat by the side of her sleeping pallet and rested her head next to his mother’s.

The Chief sat in a chair on the deck and resisted all efforts made by the Healer and the ladies of the Guards to see his mother. Rahseeta pushed past Duulaat, her mate and stood before Sahjeed.

“What are you doing? Your mother is sick; she needs care. She…”

Sahjeed did not look up, “She is being cared for, please, thank you, thank the ladies, I will ask if anything is needed.”

Three days and nights passed as Sahjeed made hurried rounds of the village and returned to his waiting place on the deck of the Chief’s lodge. He tried, but could not communicate with the girl; his mother was sleeping each time he looked in on her. The women of the Guard and the Healer came by several times each day with medicines and instructions.

At mid-sun on the fourth day, Sahjeed’s mother, taking halting steps and clinging to the girls arm, came out onto the deck and into a chair.

She gathered herself and sought Sahjeed’s eyes, “I live, my son. I am healed.”

Sahjeed sobbed and knelt before his mother, placing his head on her knees. “I thought you would not come back, my mother, I thought you were to going to join the Lights, I was so afraid…”

“Sahjeed, my son, I am here, but you must know that I will not be here forever. Where is the girl who healed me? I must see her.”

Sahjeed Deeda looked around the deck and inside the lodge. “She is not here, my mother, she is gone. I know not where.”

“She will come back, my son, she will come back.”

Shaweena, the Healer and Rahseeta, mate of Duulaat came to the Chief’s lodge as the sun slowly moved down the sky. Sahjeed remained sitting on the deck; his mother was resting. 

He looked up and nodded as they hesitated at the steps leading up to the lodge.

“Please,” Sahjeed gestured as he rose, “Join me, I will bring drinks.”

“Sit, my Chief,” said Rahseeta, “Let me, I will look in on your mother.”

“And I,” offered Shaweena, “I would look upon her to see that she mends well.”

Sahjeed Deeda remained standing, “You are very kind, both of you, if she sleeps….”

“We will not awaken her, my Chief,” said the Healer, “It is good if she sleeps.”

The two women returned shortly, bearing cups and chattering.

“Your mother does well, my Chief,” said Shaweena, “Her eyes are bright, she is in fine spirits. She is thin from not eating during her sickness, I would prepare a broth and something light for her.”

Sahjeed nodded again and they all gathered around the table and took chairs.

They drank and talked lightly for several moments.

Shaweena Deeda put her hands together in her lap and raised her eyes to Sahjeed. “My Chief, your mother has entered a time of her life when she will need more rest. It is my feeling that she should not have the burden of the Chief’s lodge; it is too much work for her. I have spoken.”

Sahjeed Deeda recognized the formal closing to her words and bowed his head slightly, “Those are my thoughts also, Healer.” The Chief rearranged his body, sitting up straighter. “Shaweena, have you looked at this girl who cares for my mother? She speaks with difficulty, she does not hear and she cannot see very well. What do you know of her?”

Sahjeed knew the women did not approve of the girl caring for his mother. He felt the indignation when he had sent them away and permitted the girl to stay. He watched as the Healer struggled for words and Rahseeta moved uneasily in her chair.

Shaweena closed her eyes as she spoke, “She is not of this village. Her mother came when the child was young. It was not thought she would survive; she was thin and weak and when she cried she coughed and gagged.

“The mother left without notice when the child was perhaps a hand of seasons or a little more. The People took her in, she moved from lodge to lodge. She speaks very little, it is said that sometimes she can hear and other times she cannot.

“As the seasons passed, she returned to those lodges that had helped her and gave as she could to repay them. The People have a place in their hearts for her.

“I treated her only once, she was very young and very sick. It was an illness that many have during the cold and wet season; I did for her as I did for all. She is polite to me, but she does not ask for my help. That is what I know of her.”

“Thank you, Healer. Rahseeta, have you anything more than this?” Asked Sahjeed.

“No, my Chief, I do not. She has few clothes; she does not take care of herself as a young girl should. I have not been close to her.”

Sahjeed struggled to find words, “I would have you look her over as closely as you can, Healer. If there is something that can be done to help her, you are to do it; I will provide what is needed.

“Please thank the ladies of the Guards, and all who have offered to help my mother and both of you.” He hesitated again, squirming in his chair and glancing in several directions, away from the women.

“I can not answer the question you have not asked. For many seasons I have seen her in the shadows as I walk the village. I even look for her when I do not see her for a few suns. I do not understand why she watches.

“When I was wounded, she came to me. When my mother fell ill, she was there. I will not turn her away if she comes back. My mother has asked for her, I would do as my mother wishes. I too, have spoken.”

Shaweena and Rahseeta showed wide-open eyes as they heard his final words.

Shaweena blinked her eyes rapidly; “I would stay with the mother of the Chief until the girl returns. I will examine the girl and do what I can. I have family to care for and cannot be here always. With your permission, my Chief, I will arrange for a woman to be here at all times.”

“I have none to care for save Duulaat,“ said Rahseeta, “I would come whenever I am needed.”

The girl walked towards the lodge as the shadows lengthened. Her arms were filled with flowers and leaves and berries and white roots. She stopped suddenly when she saw Sahjeed and Shaweena.

She came slowly forward as Sahjeed beckoned to her. She emptied her arms onto the table and lowered herself to her knees and bowed her head.

Sahjeed touched her shoulder and smiled as she lifted her eyes. He gently took her hand and guided her to a chair. She sat nervously glancing from the Chief to the Healer.

“Can you hear me speak?” Asked the Chief.

The girl’s eyes blinked but she did not comprehend his words. She blushed and leaned forward and spoke haltingly and with difficulty, taking a breath after almost every word.

“My Chief…I see…you…speak…I hear…deep…noise…far away…I am…sorry.” She lowered her head.

Sahjeed and Shaweena sat still for a moment; the Healer moved slowly to the girl’s side, stroked her hair and placed her mouth to her ear. “Can…you…hear…my…words?”

The girl jerked away, her eyes wide open and filled with tears, “I hear! I hear…your…words!” She gasped.

Sahjeed and Shaweena smiled, the girl let a tiny smile curve her lips. The Healer moved close to her again, “I am…Healer, the Chief…has asked me…to help you, if I can.”

The girl smiled, wider this time “I know…you…can you…fix me?” She breathed heavily as if catching her breath.

“I will try;” Shaweena spoke in her ear and took her hand.

The girl stood but hesitated as the Healer started to move away, “I would…hear…Chief’s words…if I may…?” She blushed and lowered her eyes.

Sahjeed stepped close to her and leaned down, “Thank you for caring for my mother and for me.”

The girls’ eyes opened wide, “Your voice…is…different….” she put a hand to her chest. “I can…feel…your words…inside. I am…happy…to serve…” she breathed rapidly again.

The Healer took the girl inside the Chief’s lodge.

Shaweena came out after what seemed to Sahjeed a very long time. There was little light left in the sky and smoke rose from lodges throughout the village.

The Healer sat down heavily and drank before she spoke, “The girl is with your mother.” she shrugged, “She will stay and care for her; it is your mother’s wish.” Sadness filled her eyes as she spoke again. “I know of nothing that can help the girl. She is swollen beneath her ears and under her jaw down to her neck. She has great pain in her head that comes and goes.

“I had her open her mouth, deep in her throat she is very swollen and discolored, and there is hardly an opening at all. She can breathe only through her mouth and has trouble swallowing. She can only eat when the swelling goes down. She lives on soups and food that has been mashed. Sahjeed, I feel so helpless I could cry, there is nothing I know how to do except ease her pain. I am sorry.” 

Sahjeed Deeda sat silently after she had spoken, “I wish…it is a terrible feeling not to be able to help; there is nothing you can do?”

“I have medicines for the heart, I have potions for the blood, I have things to unclog a stomach and ease a woman’s moon cycle pain. I can close wounds and help broken bones to mend, but for this I have nothing. I will try small amounts of other things; perhaps something will help. I do not know, but I will try.”

Shaweena Deeda left Sahjeed sitting alone on the deck. He stayed there in his chair until full dark came and the stars came out.

It was only when his nose pulled his head around that he rose and went inside.

His mother, wrapped in fur, sat at the table. There was a place set for him, the girl stood behind a chair and motioned with her head for him to sit.

“She pampers me, my son. I spoke into her ear and she hears me! She says she will stay and care for me and cook for you. It is my hope that you would allow this.”

Sahjeed sat and looked over the food before him, “She cooks well?”

His mother laughed lightly, “Better than me, my son. I never had the touch. Taste, you will discover for yourself.”

Sahjeed saw the girl watching him closely as he took a bite then another and nodded his head several times, smiling. He turned to the girl and nodded some more, pointing to his mouth. She grinned and bowed slightly.

“You must allow the women of the Guards, the women of the village to help, my mother. They do not understand why this girl is here. Has she told you her name? I have nothing to call her.”

“The other women may help, my son, but they are strangers in my home, they arrange things to suit themselves; they try too hard to please me. The girl seems to know what not to touch, what not to move, I would have her live with us. I think she does not have a home of her own.”

“I would have it as you wish, my mother, but she is not well and it is not proper for her to be in my lodge alone.”

“She will not be alone! She is with me; let the gossips of the village know that! The Healer says she will try to help to her.”

Sahjeed raised his hands as his mother showed color in her cheeks.

“It is done, then. She will stay here.” He glanced at the girl who could not hear them but sensed the tension. He motioned her to come closer to his mother. She spoke in her ear and the girl suddenly brightened and rushed to Sahjeed, throwing her arms around his waist.

Sahjeed held her briefly, immediately conscious of her body unknowingly pressing against his. He stepped back.



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 08



When Sahjeed awoke, it was to the smell of cooking and the occasional voice of his mother and the girl. They stilled as he ate and bid him, ‘take care’, as he left. 

Duulaat was waiting, “The rains we spoke of several suns ago did not arrive.”

Sahjeed looked at his First Guard, “No they did not, we were both wrong. You never speak of small things, First Guard; something troubles you?”

Duulaat frowned, “There has been no word from the men sent to the fat Chief’s village, I gave them instructions to send a runner back with news. They have not. I sent a runner and a scout last sun to find them. I have had a bad feeling about this from the beginning.”

“I have had no thoughts of this my friend, my mother…. You are right to be concerned; enough suns have passed that they should have returned. What could have happened.”

“I do not know, my Chief, I hope the runner returns quickly with news. Ah, did something happen at your lodge? Rahseeta was in a mood such as I have never seen. She threw things!”

Sahjeed explained what had happened with the girl.

“But why would that make her so angry? She spends most of each sun at the Trader’s lodge; she has little time to care for your mother. I do not understand women at all!”

Sahjeed Deeda turned away and did not smile, “All the ladies of the Guards had expected to care for my mother. She asked for the girl, I did as she asked.”

“I am sorry I spoke of a personal matter, my Chief. Do we walk the usual way?”

“You have never asked that before, either, Duulaat, is there something more you would say?”

Duulaat looked chagrined, “Since the meeting of the Chiefs, more people come each sun. We make hide houses for them and try to provide, but what we have may not be enough. We organize hunters and those who gather food. I would see to my men, my Chief.”

“We will go together, First Guard.”

Duulaat beamed with pride as they came upon a well-organized camp of cooking fires and shelters and people busy at many different tasks. Guards came up to him and reported and hurried away. Sahjeed Deeda stood back and watched. 

When the reports were done and no more came toward them, he laid a hand on Duulaat’s shoulder, “It seems they do well without you looking over their shoulders as you do when I am not pointing my finger. They are well trained, First Guard, you have done your job well.”

“It is a strange feeling, my Chief. My orders set this in motion, but they no longer need me. What am I to do next?” Duulaat looked truly lost as he spoke.

Sahjeed Deeda laughed, “It is not the last time you will have this feeling, my friend. Come let us find some more problems to trouble your worthy Guards.”

The new trouble waited until the next day about mid morning when the runner and the scout returned from Chief Suulamaag’s village. Duulaat sought out Sahjeed during the mid-day meal at the Chief’s lodge.

Sahjeed insisted that Duulaat slow his thoughts and his heart, sit and share the table with him. The First Guard clenched his teeth, then sighed and sat down. The girl brought him a drink and a platter, smiled and went away. Duulaat smiled and thanked her.

“What is her name, what do you call her?”

Sahjeed frowned, “She hears only if you speak very close to her ear, I have not been able to find the right time to ask her. Perhaps my mother has learned, I will ask. Now, you have news?”

“The fat Chief’s village is fenced and guarded, he was not helpful, even hostile; the scout said he was not permitted to talk to the people. They did find out that our men had been there and the direction they were sent. 

“The scout followed tracks for half the early sun into low hills and then into higher ground. They found tracks of many men on both sides of the group we sent. They went higher, into rocky ground and could follow the tracks no longer. Nothing was found; no one was seen. 

“If the tracks were not of men from the fat Chief’s village, then there are new People from the high ground. I do not know about our men. I fear for them.”

“New People, from the high ground? In the legend of Ahjeed there was such a discovery! There is much here to think about, Duulaat, much. We must inform First Chief Beedawat. I would also speak with Chief Galawaand; some of his men went along. Would you send a runner to his village, ask him if he would join me here?”

“Yes, my Chief, ah, will we send Guards to the fat Chief’s village to look for our men?”

Sahjeed Deeda nodded at Duulaat’s foresight, “I think we must, First Guard, I think we must.”

The First Chief sent word that Sahjeed Deeda was to do what he thought best. Chief Galawaand, First Guard Duulaat and young Alahbaand heard the report from the runner on Sahjeed’s deck.

“He insisted he would begin repaying his debt to you by volunteering,” said Galawaand in answer to Sahjeed’s question.

“Too young,” smiled Sahjeed, “Too young, too little training and a new mate that would tear my arm off if I let you go. However, I am greatly impressed by your honor and your desire to serve.”

Alahbaand’s face fell as Sahjeed spoke, “But, my Chief, I have trained hard and learned fast. I fight the training fights as well as any; I am at home in the forest. I would serve you well.”

Chief Galawaand nodded, “It is as he says, Sahjeed Deeda, he is among the best because he tries so hard. He is not the youngest of my Guards. I told him I would speak for him. I have spoken.”

“I will think on this because you speak, Galawaand,” he turned to the young boy, “What does Laawaleeah say of this?”

“She has two minds on my leaving, my Chief. She will honor my choice,” said Alahbaand.”

Sahjeed was silent for a moment; “I would put out a call for volunteers from all the villages. How many should there be?”

Duulaat deferred to Chief Galawaand, “I have to agree that we must send men. I have not thought of the numbers. Sahjeed, you must have noticed that I have made an enemy of Chief Brohdaak. I do not trust the man.” Galawaand studied the floor, “I could offer many reasons, but I can not join with you. 

“I will give as many Guards as I can and bring supplies, but I will not leave my People. I regret that I must say this.”

Sahjeed nodded, “I know you have good reason Chief Galawaand. I have another situation here,” he nodded to Duulaat, ”One of us must stay.”

The First Guard stiffened and leaned forward, “I would lead the Guards if there may be a battle, my Chief. It is what I have trained for; it must be I who goes.”

“That is what troubles me, Duulaat, It is I who must lead and you who must fight. The lack of an heir becomes apparent again. I see no solution at the moment. We will both think of this matter.

“I do not wish to hurry into this. Let us choose the Guards and volunteers and work with them. We will need more boats and the Healer should provide medicines for us to take with us.”



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 09



Sahjeed avoided creating commotion in the main part of the Chief's lodge by using a side entrance that opened into a small room where several partly cured hides were hung. The next room contained a table and several chairs, his extra weapons and trail clothing hung from rafters and leaned against two walls. The room had no windows.

The Chief sat behind the table, and Duulaat leaned over as they both struggled to create a map of the area around Suulamaag's village. They called in scouts and hunters who had been through the area to help.

As supplies were gathered and training went on throughout the day, volunteers from other villages came before Sahjeed and the First Guard in the cluttered room. Some were welcomed with gratitude, but many others were turned away.

"They are thin and weak or old with heavy bellies!" snorted Duulaat, "How have so many of the People come to be this way? They could not make a hard march and could not fight."

A voice from the doorway interrupted Sahjeed, as he was about to speak.

"Permission to enter."

A guard stood in the doorway and at Sahjeed's nod, moved aside. A tall lean bearded man hobbled, more than walked into the room. His appearance caused both the Chief and Duulaat to stare in disbelief.

Black curly hair started on his head and showed down the front of his open tunic to just above his waist. The staff he held in his right hand thumped as he supported himself and took a step. His left arm stopped at the elbow, his left leg at the knee.

He made his way to the table, brushed long bushy hair from his forehead and looked down at the map. He grunted and made other sounds as he leaned on the table and used the fingers of his right hand to trace lines. "Wrong! And wrong, and too short and the hills begin here, not there!" He thumped the table.

"I am called Wolf. I know this land. I come to be your tracker and lead scout." He raised his head, glanced at Duulaat then held Sahjeed's eyes.

After a moment he smiled and dropped his eyes, "People show many things when they look upon me. Pity, horror, revulsion, but you my Chief, I cannot read what you feel. Why is this?"

Before Sahjeed could answer, shouts and female screams came from the outer room; sounds of a struggle brought him to his feet and through the door behind Duulaat.

A Guard held a kicking and screaming girl off the floor and tried to avoid her fingernails as she reached behind her for his face.

"Stop this!" shouted Sahjeed, "What is going on here? Guard, who is this girl?"

Wolf clumped through the door-way, "She followed me to your village, Chief Sahjeed. She promised she would wait quietly until I came out." He turned to the girl, "Saaleeshah! What is the meaning of this? What have you done?"

The Guard released the girl, and she darted to the protection of Wolf. "My Chief," said the Guard, "She made marks on a doeskin hanging on the wall, she would not stop!"

Sahjeed looked from the girl to Wolf and then to the skin. He moved closer. Only the shape of a face and bushy hair showed clearly. 

The Chief looked at Wolf and back to the skin, "This is to be a drawing of Wolf?"

"Yes, my Chief," the girl said meekly.

"Would you finish it for me?"

Her eyes brightened and a huge smile creased her face, "You would let me? You want to see? Oh, yes! Oh, thank you!"

She ran to the hanging skin, her hands dipping into sewn pouches that hung on her waist and surrounded her. She talked and mumbled and exclaimed as she took charcoal in both hands and attacked the skin, oblivious to those watching.

She slowed and used one hand only when she drew the eyes, wetting her finger and dipping it into one pouch then another. She worked quickly, stood back, moved forward again, then back, reached out a finger drew it back and collapsed, panting, her full skirt billowing as she gracefully bent her knees. She put her hands in her lap and bowed her head, breathing as if she had run a great distance.

Those watching stood speechless as the drawing of Wolf came into being. The Guard who had restrained her stepped back and made a sign as if to ward off evil.

Sahjeed was stunned and more so as he moved closer and glanced from the drawing to Wolf and back again.

He shivered and turned to the girl on the floor, "Rise up, Saalee...? What are you called?"

She stood and faced him, "Saaleeshah, my Chief," she said quietly, searching his eyes, "Does the drawing please you?"

Sahjeed turned to Wolf, "Would you stand closer to the drawing? I would like to compare...yes, there. It is you, Tracker, there is no doubt of that, but it is more than you. The drawing is more Wolf than you are? How can that be? I see the scars but I am drawn to look at the strength in your face." He looked back and forth between drawing and man. "I see the strong chin and jaw but the beard covers and leads me to the eyes. By the Lights! I have never seen such eyes. There is the pain; there is the suffering but also the endurance, the burden of the memory. But this is not important for in the eyes is something that is not visible in the man. A gentleness; a passion, a knowing of self worth."

Sahjeed Deeda backed away from the drawing and the man and stood before the girl, "I do not understand how one so young, anyone, young or old, could see such things in a man and bring them to life with burned wood and deer hide. I have never seen such a thing. How do you...how can you...why...?"

The girl burst into tears and when Sahjeed opened his arms she came to him. "My Chief, oh, my Chief, how I have longed to hear words such as yours. People are frightened by my drawings; they say I take the life from those I draw. They forbid me to draw living things, they do not like that I see so much." She stepped back and looked into his eyes, "Do you really see those things you said? Those things I tried so hard to bring out? Do you really see?"

"Yes, girl, I see. I do not; I can not, in my head see how you can do this. But I am amazed and grateful that you showed me. I would like to have the drawing of Wolf. What can I do for you in exchange?"

"Oh, my Chief," she gasped, "The doeskin is worth much more than my drawing. I am so sorry, but I had to get Wolf out of my head. He was screaming to come out, I could not stop myself." 

The Chief hesitated, "I think you do not know the value of what you do. Wolf, would you and Saaleeshah join me for a meal? I think we have much to talk about."

Wolf smiled, "We would be honored, my Chief."

Sahjeed's mother rose from her chair on the deck as they came up the stairway. She smiled at her son, nodded to Duulaat and Rahseeta, glanced at the young girl and opened her eyes wide at Wolf.

"Lobolaaht! Is it really you, after all this time? Oh, I cannot believe my eyes!" She opened her arms as Wolf came up to her.

He put his arms lightly around her back, and then pushed slightly away to look into her eyes. "Malaeeva, only you could always see through what is to what really is. I have missed seeing you. You look well; you have a fine son."

She blushed and patted his shoulder, "And who is this young lady that you bring before me?"

Wolf smiled and took the girl's hand, "Malaeeva, mother of Sahjeed, please meet Saaleeshah..." He turned to Sahjeed with a gesture, "And this is who she is..." Sahjeed held up the doeskin before her."

Sahjeed's mother slowly raised a hand to cover her open mouth as her eyes opened wide and filled. She glanced at the girl but did not look at Lobolaaht. "This child did that?" she gasped.

Sahjeed smiled, "In the time it takes to breathe a few hands of times, quicker than water can bubble in a hot fire. Yes, she drew that before my eyes, my mother." 

Malaeeva reached a hand to Wolf's face, his beard and to the scars beneath. She turned to the girl and held her face in both hands, "I do not know how you could see the young Lobolaaht in the face before you. I would have that drawing if I may?"

Saaleeshah glanced at the Chief, then bowed her head slightly and raised her hands to Malaeeva's arms, "It would give me great pleasure for you to have this. I am happy that it pleases you."

"Pleases me? Sahjeed, my son, does this child not know what she has done?"

"We just met, my mother. She says some people are frightened of her drawings. I know very little, perhaps we can learn more. That is why I wanted her to sit with us,"

"Yes, oh yes, we will sit together and eat and talk and perhaps we will learn some secrets. We must help our other young lady prepare enough food for all, come ladies, to the fireplace!"

Sahjeed, Duulaat and Wolf sat around the table on the deck with an empty chair between each of them.

"First Guard, Tracker, neither of you has spoken of the drawing. That was of my doing, I could not control my response. Wolf, do you see yourself as she sees you?" Sahjeed leaned on the table toward him.

"Chief Sahjeed, I paid little attention to my looks as a young man. The maidens smiled upon me; that was enough. One catches glimpses in a quiet pond on a sunny day; women sometimes rub certain stones until a shimmering outline can be seen. 

"I did not need to see what I looked like after the bear killed me, I did not care, I was happy just to live when the pain lessened. I know I have not answered your question," Wolf leaned back in his chair and looked away. "The man in the drawing is the man I would wish to be, the man I perhaps could be, ought to be. I am not as strong or as honest as she drew me. I have fears and failures and weaknesses; she did not show those. I now know why people fear what she does."

Sahjeed was taken silent by Lobolaaht's words, and Duulaat remained in a deep study.

The Chief finally broke the silence, "Tracker, if you think you can keep pace with the rest of the men, I would welcome your skill on the trail. Every scout I have met speaks of your expertise. Do you have pain when you walk long distances?"

"I have pain always, Sahjeed, I have learned to live with it. I cannot keep up with a running march but I will stay with anything less. I would go if you would have me."

The Chief smiled and stood, reaching an arm out to Wolf, Duulaat did the same. They were still standing as Rahseeta came onto the deck with a tray of drinking cups.

She was silent and unsmiling as she handed the drinks to them. Several uneasy moments passed before Duulaat moved to her side. "I would hear your thoughts on the drawing, 'seeta."

Rahseeta looked from face to face before she spoke, "I...felt that drawing as if it were alive. I did not have to think about it or what I thought about it, I, uh, I had a strange feeling in my stomach, in my chest. It frightened me and thrilled me. My mind cannot accept that a child did that drawing, I will not believe that such a young..."

"I, we all, watched her, Rahseeta. I saw, yet I too have difficulty believing my eyes, that anyone could create such a thing. It is beyond me," said Sahjeed.

"Would she draw someone else, so we could see?" Ventured Duulaat cautiously.

Wolf tilted his head, "She might. She was forbidden to show anyone her work in the last village. She has begun to realize the impact of her drawings. I do not know enough to speak with her about her work, she needs more than I can give."

Rahseeta left and all four women returned moments later with platters and bowls, and the meal was quickly served.

They ate quietly and slowly, Sahjeed's mother sat next to Lobolaaht, Saaleeshah picked at her food and seemed distracted, glancing again and again at the girl who cared for Sahjeed and his mother. 

With flashing eyes and a heaving chest she quickly rose, knocking the chair to the floor behind her. "I must! I have to do this! My Chief, is there, do you have something I can draw on? Light in color, as large as you have? Oh, Please, Chief, I must draw her. Now!"

Sahjeed was startled, along with the rest, but left and quickly came back with a large roll of bleached doeskin that Domohaas had given him.

Saaleeshah swept a part of the table clear, had Sahjeed sit at one end and took the girl's arm and led her to the other end of the table. She touched and adjusted the girl's head and posture and had her lay an arm across her waist just above the hips.

"Yes! Yes...yes...hold there!" She motioned to the girl to remain still, threw the skin down on the table and again with two hands began to sketch.

The rest gathered behind her, glancing from the skin to the girl as her form began to take shape. There was a gasp from Rahseeta, and a huge exhale by Sahjeed as Saaleeshah's hands flashed, then slowed. She stepped back, looked up and down and again, made a few more strokes, used her fingertips to smudge, dipped into a pouch for color, stepped back again, blinked her eyes rapidly for a moment then dropped heavily into a chair and closed her eyes.

The silence was absolute until Sahjeed's mother rose, moved to the still posing girl, put an arm around her and walked her to the far end of the table. She motioned to Sahjeed; he carefully picked up the skin and held it before the girl.

Her eyes opened wide, she dropped to her knees and covered her mouth with both hands.

"That...can...not be...me!" She ran her fingers along her cheeks to her eyes and into her hair. "That is...beautiful...that is not...me...it cannot be...me?"

Saaleeshah rose and went to the girl and sat down, her mouth to the girl's ear. "It is how I see you," she said.

The girl turned to her and looked into her eyes, "You see...me...like that?"

"Yes." The girls hugged each other.

The girl in the drawing had a perfectly round face with huge light brown eyes showing streaks of white. There was no swelling under the eyes or beneath her jaws. Shining hair surrounded and framed the face, the tiny nose, and the full, partly open lips. The eyes pulled one back into depths that portrayed openness and innocence and honesty, so stark it was painful to see.

The girl pulled away, stood, and looked at Sahjeed with questions in her eyes.

He did not hesitate but went to her side and whispered in her ear. "It is you. She sees you as I see you."

The girl put her hands to her face and ran from the room.

"It is a trick! She does not look like that at all!" Rahseeta rose, grabbed Duulaat's arm and pulled him off the deck and into the night.

Wolf went to Saaleeshah, pulled her to her feet and led her to a chair, "You are indeed a wonder, Saalee', now eat, you barely touched your food. Eat!"

Sahjeed's mother smiled as the girl began to eat, "If you would consider, my child, I would love to have a drawing of how you see my son and perhaps myself, for him to remember me by; if you..."

Saaleeshah touched her lips with a soft skin napkin and smiled, "I was going to ask if I could draw you both, I would love to, whenever you wish."

The Chief fidgeted in his chair, moving his legs, crossing and uncrossing them, scooting forward, then back. "I, uh, Lobolaaht, Saaleeshah, I would offer a place for you to stay, here, in my lodge, if it would meet with your approval."

Wolf smiled, "The girl needs a place better than I can provide. I am not her guardian; I only help because I can. I can fend for myself, I do not wish..."

"I would have you near me to plan for this journey, Wolf. I would ask Saaleeshah to help with drawings of the maps we are trying to make. I would welcome you both, there are many unused rooms."

They looked at each other and nodded and it was settled.

"Good!" said Malaeeva, Sahjeed's mother, "She can help if she wants or she can draw from dawn to dusk, I am happy to have another young woman around. It gives me my youth again."

"I can draw as much as I want and anything I choose?" Saaleeshah's eyes were wide.

"I will bring you all you need to work with, Saalee', It will be an honor to have you in my lodge."

"Oh, my Chief, I do not know what to say, how to thank you. I have never had enough supplies and never enough time and the place was seldom right. Oh, I will be so happy and grateful to you!"

Sahjeed's mother stood, "I have been drained by this wonderful evening. I must rest. I will show you which rooms to choose from and let you settle yourselves. Saaleeshah, thank you for a wonderful time, I cannot remember when I have felt so good. Rest well."

"Goodnight, my mother."

"Goodnight, my son."

Sahjeed Deeda sought a pipe, which he seldom used and a skin of strong drink, which he never used and sat and smoked and drank and watched the night deepen and the Lights move across the sky.

Author's note...when one writes, sometimes characters assume a life of their own and move a story in a direction not planned. This is a chapter I am most happy with but if you, as you read, can suggest an improvement, it would be appreciated...regards...amicus...



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 10



Sahjeed’s mother beamed as she directed the two young women in the preparation of the morning meal. Activity quickened as the morning began and people began lining up to speak with the Chief. Malaeeva, wrapped in a fur cloak chose a place on the deck to watch the proceedings and welcome the women of the Guards who came to help.

Trader Domohaas, his two daughters and one son arrived at mid-morning, followed by Chief Galawaand, Alahbaand and his young mate, Laawaleeah. First Guard Duulaat and another heavyset Guard stood watch around the Chief’s lodge. 

People from the village, noticing all the movement, found reasons to walk the trail to the Chief’s lodge for a better look.

Inside, Saaleeshah was frustrated to tears at her inability to comprehend the map made by Sahjeed and Duulaat. “I just can’t see it!” she cried, “I don’t know how far the trail is or how high the hills are! I don’t know what to do! I am so sorry.”

Wolf moved to her side and comforted her. “I understand little one, don’t be upset, we have not done the distance well. It is not your fault. Chief Sahjeed, the map is confusing, even to me. I don’t know how…”

Sahjeed stood up behind the table, “Perhaps the trader, Domohaas, could help, ask him to join us.”

Domohaas came into the room, grimaced, then smiled and sent one of his daughters back to his lodge. When she came back with an armload of large bleached hides, the room quieted as Domohaas explained his notations.

Sahjeed and Wolf nodded and smiled, Saaleesha’s eyes opened wide as she grasped the flat drawing, without perspective, of the three dimensional world. “Oh, yes! I see! You have to see in your mind the hills and the width of the river, this is just a guide…a reminder, oh, now I can understand.”

“The distance to the small hills from the fat Chief’s village is less than from here to the village? Is that right?” asked Duulaat.

“It appears that way to me, also,” said Galawaand, “It is not a long journey.”

“So it seems,” agreed Sahjeed, “Wolf, do you see more that we should think about?”

“No, Chief, I have been to the village and beyond, but not far into the high lands.”

“It is not far from the time when the rains begin and the dark time grows colder,” said Sahjeed, “We should return before the harvest gathering, if all goes well.

“Galawaand, how long before we can leave?”

“We?” smiled the other Chief, “It seems you have decided to lead this group of warriors. A few more suns, Sahjeed…they could go now, but a little more time working together will be better.”

Sahjeed looked at a crestfallen Duulaat and nodded to Galawaand, “Yes, I have decided I must go, but I will have my First Guard with me. I would ask you, my friend, to share your time between our villages if you would do that. Duulaat, your next in line can fill in while you are gone.”

Duulaat smiled and sighed in relief as Galawaand hesitated for a moment, then nodded in agreement, “Yes, I will take a group of your guards and mine each day between the villages and beyond. It will be good training and each village will feel protected. Yes, Sahjeed, I will do that. Try not to be gone any longer than necessary.”

Sahjeed grasped Galawaand’s arm, “Thank you my friend, we will return as soon as we can.” Sahjeed turned to the boy, Alahbaand, “You may take my weak arm side if you give me your word you will stay near.”

The boy broke into a wide grin, “Yes, my Chief, I am greatly honored, I will serve you well, thank you!”

Wolf leaned on the table and raised his walking stick, “Sahjeed, I would leave before you. The way to the village is well marked, but beyond that, I would like to see it before you arrive. It would be helpful to have the boy with me.”

Sahjeed looked from the man to the boy, drew in a deep breath and nodded his approval, “Is there more we should think about? Anyone?”

The meeting came to an end; the low sun was a surprise to those who had been in the room for most of the day. The women greeted the men, and set about preparing the evening meal.

Duulaat motioned to a heavily built man with bushy eyebrows and a wide scar across one cheek. “My Chief, you know Saamajahd, Second Guard, I have spoken with him about my possible absence from the village.”

Sahjeed reached out and grasped the other mans’ arm, “You would work with Chief Galawaand to guard the People while we are gone?”

Saamajahd stood tall, “Given the choice, my Chief, I would join with you and go to the fat Chief’s village. But I will serve in any way you ask and am greatly honored that you choose me to protect the People. Hoorah!”

Sahjeed smiled and grasped Saamajahd’s meaty shoulder, “You have earned the respect of First Guard and of your Chief, my friend. I will leave knowing the People are in good hands.”

Sahjeed turned to Shaweena, the Healer, who stood nearby, “You would speak, Healer?

“Yes, my Chief… ah, the People sense that important things are at hand. I think they would wish to share the evening meal around the meadow beneath your lodge.”

Sahjeed looked down and wondered that he had not noticed what must be many, many hands of the People milling in the cleared area.

“They would have cooking fires and would bring food to the Chief and all who are here,” said Shaweena.

Sahjeed nodded several times in thought as his eyes swept over the gathered People, “Yes, yes, of course, have them come closer, we will share this evening.”  

As the Healer passed through the crowd the activity increased and more and more people moved into the clearing and closer to the lodge. Soon there were fires going, the sounds of drums and singing and laughter and the squeals of women and children.

Sahjeed and his guests, nearly three hands strong, on the covered deck of the Chief’s lodge, drank and talked and watched the crowd grow in size and sound. It appeared that the entire village had gathered.

The two Chiefs, Sahjeed and Galawaand, stood shoulder to shoulder looking over busy crowd. “You would speak to the People, Sahjeed?”

“I think, perhaps, that is why they have gathered,” said Sahjeed quietly, “I had not planned to speak this sun, but…”

“I understand,” said Galawaand, “There are some from every village here. You have told them that changes are coming. I can only think that perhaps the People feel coming things, maybe even more than you and I.”

No apprehension of coming events was apparent as the boisterous crowd celebrated and danced and sang and eventually ate, as did those at the Chief’s lodge.

The moon was high and bright in a cloudless sky when Sahjeed moved to the top of the steps to the lodge. Flanking him was Galawaand on one side and Sahjeed’s two Guards on the other. The crowd quieted as he stood before them.

“If there was a great Seer of our People, he would say that special forces are at work and have drawn you here this darktime.” Sahjeed paused and looked across the gathering, picking out individuals when he could see them clearly.

“At the request of Beedewat, First Chief of all the People, braves from this village and from Galawaand’s people traveled to the village of Chief Suulumaag, across the river and near the high ground. It was said that several from that village had been lost to a bear or to wolves. The men we sent did not return. Other scouts were sent out, they did not find our braves. They found signs of many men and tracks that are not from the village of Suulumaag. It is possible that there are new People from the high ground.”

A muted noise rose from the gathering as men stood and women drew close to them.

“Such a thing has happened before,” Sahjeed continued, “Long ago, in legend. There was a great battle and our People defeated the others and came to the land where we now live.

“It has been decided that I shall lead a force of Guards from this village and from Galawaand’s people. We shall try to find those we sent out and see how the people of Suulumaag’s village are doing. There has been no contact with them for a hand of moons. Many have kin in that village and are concerned.”

Sahjeed placed a hand on Galawaand’s shoulder, “While I am gone, Chief Galawaand will join with Second Guard, Saamajahd, and a number of Guards from each village to protect the People.”

Sahjeed turned to Saamajahd and then beckoned to Domohaas, “Domohaas, the Trader, known to all the People, is an honorable man. In my absence he will assist the People in the affairs of the day and with any disputes that may arise.”

Domohaas, with a surprised look, moved alongside the Chief, raised one arm and nodded.

Sahjeed beckoned once again, “Lobolaaht, known to all the People as a great hunter and the best tracker of all, will lead our group and he has chosen a young man of our village, Alahbaand, to journey with him.”

Wolf clumped across the deck as the people gasped at his appearance, Alahbaand stood proudly beside him.

Sahjeed nodded at Lobolaaht and smiled at Alahbaand as they stood near him, he then looked out at the People again.

“I do not know what we will meet in this journey. Your mates and sons have been called upon to serve the People. We shall do so in the way we have been taught and trained. I will do my best to make certain they all return safely. I ask for your best wishes on our journey; it is an honor to serve the People.”

There was silence for a moment, then the sounds of many hands and cheers and screams and then silence again. Sahjeed, who had turned to walk away, stopped and looked back out upon the People.

The crowd parted as a single figure came forth and slowly walked to the bottom of the steps at Sahjeed’s feet.

The Chief looked down and smiled, “The woodsman, Tobosaand, would speak?”

The old man nodded and gathered himself upright and rigid, “My Chief, I can speak only for myself and perhaps my family and a few others I know well. We have long come to look forward to and depend upon your morning walks among the People. I have lived long, I know of other places. They do not have life as easy as we in this village. I know and I believe the People all know, that it is your leadership that keeps us strong.”

Tobosaand paused and drew a deep breath. “Could the People not choose another to lead the men on this journey? We would not even think of this village without our Chief Sahjeed Deeda.”

There was an audible gasp from those gathered as the woodsman bowed his head, turned and disappeared into the crowd. The people murmured, then quieted again.

Sahjeed turned to Galawaand; they exchanged a long hard look.

Sahjeed raised his hands, palms up, before the People.

“Tobosaand, the Woodsman, has raised a question that I cannot answer well. The leadership of this village has always passed from father to son. I have no sons that would become Chief.

“I plan to return from this journey, I do not see death close ahead of me. But then, I did not see death a moon ago when the Nightbird came very close to me.

“I have decided that I must make this journey. It is my duty. I cannot send others to lead in my place. I have not, until this moment, faced the truth, the possibility, that I may not return.”

Sahjeed turned to Galawaand and extended his right arm. Galawaand nodded and took his arm.

“Should Duulaat and I fail to return, I would ask the People of this village to accept Chief Galawaand as leader. If First Guard returns and I do not, then I ask you to accept Duulaat as leader. It is my wish.”

There was confusion and noise throughout the gathering and even on the deck of the lodge. The sounds died away as the crowd once again opened and a single figure came forward.

Sahjeed peered down, “I see you, Elder; you would speak?”

The person straightened and could be seen to be an old woman with a thin face but thick long white hair. She slowly shook her head from side to side and pointed to the deck. All eyes turned as the woman continued to shake her head until Shaweena, the Healer, stepped forward, and gave a single nod.

Shaweena went down the steps and followed the old woman into the crowd, returning a few moments later. The Healer stood before the Chief at the bottom of the steps.

“You would speak, Healer?”

Shaweena, with a mischievous smile, looked up at Sahjeed, “I have been asked by the Elder of one family, who has spoken to Elders of several families among the People, to convey a message to the Chief of this village.”

Sahjeed tilted his head and blinked, then nodded, “Yes, please go ahead.”

Shaweena held her chin high, “My Chief, several families with eligible maidens have taken notice that the Chief has spent much time with the daughters of the Trader, Domohaas.”

There was scattered, cautious chuckling here and there and Sahjeed’s posture changed to close attention.

Shaweena went on, “In many seasons past, the Chief has appeared not to notice any of the maidens of the village, or of any village. The Elders wish to express the hope that their Chief, if he were considering taking a mate, would consider others than the daughters of Domohaas. I have spoken.” The healer’s face broke into a smile, “…as best as I can.”

The people gathered closest to the Chief stared and remained silent, trying to see his face, his expression. Again, there were light and cautious sounds of humor throughout the crowd.

Sahjeed showed no expression for a moment, then broke into a large smile and shuffled his feet. The people shouted and laughed and cheered.

When they quieted again, Sahjeed motioned Shaweena to his side; he put an arm lightly on her shoulder, “It has been suggested before that the Chief has been long without the comfort of a woman in his life. It has also been made clear that there should be children in his lodge.” The Chief smiled largely out at the People, “I have not chosen a mate but it seems necessary that I think about it. I will do that.”

Sahjeed moved back onto the deck as the People applauded and cheered and laughed at his words.

The gathering of People was filled with excited chattering and laughter as the eating and the drinking continued and then slowed as the crowd thinned.

Domohaas and his children left early, both daughters casting lingering glances at Sahjeed. He smiled at them and took a hand of each as they left. Rahseeta was wide eyed as the Chief said goodnight to his guests. Lobolaaht and Alahbaand made plans to depart during the next sun.

Duulaat stood next to Sahjeed leaning on the railing of the deck, “I did not expect what happened this dark, my Chief.”

“Nor did I, First Guard, I had not planned to speak to the People. But it seemed the right thing to do. Are you unhappy with what has been said and done?”

“I will make certain that you return to choose a mate, my Chief. I will not think of any other result.” Duulaat spoke without emotion in his voice. “I do not wish to become the leader of the People, Sahjeed, I do not have the wisdom and the patience. I am a warrior, I wish no more than that. You will return, my Chief.”

Sahjeed looked at his First Guard and reached for his shoulder, “My friend you are best qualified of all the men in the village. We will both do what we must. I think one more sun, and then we shall leave, First Guard. I wish to get on with this that we must do.”

“Yes, my Chief, we will be ready.”

Sahjeed sat looking into the moonlit darkness after all had left and it was quiet again. After a long while, he leaned back in the woven frame chair, tilted his head back and stretched…and sniffed…then turned to look behind him.

“You smell of the tiny pink flower of the high ground. Why do you not sleep?”

“I am sorry…can…not hear your words…I saw…you…alone…are you sad? Did the…talk…with…the People not…go well?”

Sahjeed stood and went to her side, “I am fine, I said that my nose followed the scent of a flower and you were there. You should sleep.”

She smiled as he whispered in her ear and nodded, “I am happy you are…fine…but…I do not…think you…always say…true things…I hope you…can rest well…my Chief…”

Sahjeed watched her as she went into the lodge.

The girl crept silently into Sahjeed’s room, stood watching him for a moment, then knelt down, placed her head on his sleeping pallet a few inches from his face. Sahjeed dreamed of fields of pink flowers from the high ground.



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 11



“I fear for him, my Chief! I know he must go and he wants to go, but I am afraid!”

Laawaleah clung to Sahjeed as they watched Wolf and Alahbaand quickly move down the trail away from them. She broke away and waved her arms wildly, but no one looked back. 

Saaleesha, who had made the drawing of Wolf, waved also and then put her arms around the other girl. “They will be all right, I know it. In my sketch of Wolf, I did not show the hardness that I know to be in him. He will protect your mate and himself; he can be very mean if he needs to be. They will come back!”

A small group had gathered to watch the advance scouts depart, mostly Guards and a few others. Duulaat and his mate, Rahseeta, stood near the Chief as they passed out of sight.

“Leeah, I am happy that you stay in my lodge until we return, my mother is more than happy with all the young women about.” Sahjeed gently patted her back and turned to the First Guard.

“All is ready, Duulaat? We leave at first light? There is nothing more to be done?”

“We are ready my Chief, there are…” Duulaat struggled to equate hand counting to words, “uh, this many hands of ours, eight is the word I think, and four hands from Galawaand’s people, all together, ah,” he flashed two hands and two more.

Sahjeed smiled, “You are doing better, my friend, it is twelve hands or sixty men that will go, plus you and I. Come, let us walk the village and let the People know we are in good spirits and anxious to set forth.”

Rahseeta, Duulaat’s mate, stood behind the two men, watching and listening, her face a conflict of emotions.

Sahjeed returned to his lodge to find his mother and the girl who cared for her waiting on the deck for him.

“Lobolaaht and the boy have left, my son?”

“Yes, mother, just after first light, Wolf did not want to wake you, he said to tell you that he will miss your company and he promises to return safely.”

Sahjeed’s mother bowed her head and turned away, the girl placed an arm around her shoulders. Sahjeed stood watching as the girl led her to a chair on the deck and draped a large fur about her.

He joined them at the table, “Tea… Hot tea… my Chief?” asked the girl.

Sahjeed smiled and nodded, “Thank you, uh…mother, what is this girl’s name? I have nothing to call her?”

He saw tears in his mother’s eyes as she raised her face to him. “She has no name, my son. Perhaps she did, certainly she must have, but not hearing or speaking well, she does not know what she is called.”

The Chief leaned forward and gazed into his mother’s eyes, “Do you cry for Lobolaaht, my mother?”

She slowly moved her fingers below her eyes, “We were young together, my son. Now we are old. We share many memories. I knew of his injuries but it was great pain to see what life has done to him. He was very strong and very good looking as a young man.”

Sahjeed’s eyes opened wide, he leaned back in the chair, staring at his mother, “You…you had f…feelings for Lobolaaht?”

A dim but twinkling smile crossed her face, “Your father was slow to ask for my hand until he saw Lobolaaht visiting my father’s lodge many times. Had your father not acted, I would have mated Lobolaaht. Now you know, my son; it is not a bad thing and I do not regret the choice I made, but the memories…ah, I have not thought of such things…”

Sahjeed reached and took both his mother’s hands, “I have never thought of you as a young maiden, sought after as a mate. Forgive me, my dear mother, I…”

She removed her hands from his, put a finger across his lips, and smiled, “…and you have no reason to see me that way…Sahjeed, my son, you need not answer but, ah, do you have feelings for any maiden? Perhaps you favor one of the Domohaas’s daughters? After your words, the People will soon expect you to choose.”

The girl returned with carved wooden cups of steaming tea, allowing Sahjeed to escape the question for the moment. They sat quietly and sipped the hot beverage.

“The tiny pink flower that grows in the highlands, that smells so sweet but has tiny stickers on the green part…what is that called, my mother?”

“There are many different kinds, my son, some have no name given; I call that flower the wood rose…”

“Rose?” mused Sahjeed, “…aah, yes, perhaps, ah, Sahrosah? Saarosah?”

“It has a pretty sound when spoken softly, my son…”

The girl sat quietly observing the expressions and politely looking away as she could not hear the words. She folded her hands together and looked from Sahjeed to his mother. They both smiled warmly at her.

“Would you ask her if…well, aah, if she would like a name, uh, if she likes the sound of Saarosah? I think you should ask her, my mother.”

She leaned to the girl and spoke close to her ear. The girl’s eyes opened wide and filled, she lowered her head as tears coursed down her cheek. 

Sahjeed’s mother sat back, but kept an arm around the girl’s shoulders and brushed the tears away.

She raised her face, blinked rapidly and breathed deep, “Oh, my Chief… Malaeeva… mother of the Chief…I am so…honored…it is a lovely… name…that you…think of me…as a…person…as someone…I am so…I love the…name…I will always be… Saarosah…thank you…with all my…heart.”

Late at night, when all were asleep, the girl, who now had a name, once again knelt on the floor alongside Sahjeed’s bed. She lay her face close enough to his to feel his breath and cried herself to sleep.



A light mist rose from the meadow below the Chief’s lodge as the Scouts and Guards of two villages began arriving. The sky was gray but clear and the forest was quiet.

People from Galawaand’s village mingled with those from Sahjeed’s as they said tearful good-byes to mates and sons. The men slowly formed into marching groups and scouts as they prepared to leave.

Sahjeed’s mother hugged her son on the deck of the lodge, surrounded by the three young women who cared for her. Rahseeta, Duulaat’s mate embraced him fiercely and then lightly put her arms around Sahjeed before she moved aside. As the men started to move away, the crowd began clapping hands and making a communal sound, a chant that echoed through the trees then faded away.

A small distance away, even before the sun broke over the hill, they arrived at the river and began loading the boats for the short trip across the slow moving water.

Scouts went out as soon as they landed on the other side. The men formed up into groups of ten with Sahjeed and Duulaat in the lead.

The trail to Suulumaag’s village was overgrown from disuse, but easily followed. Duulaat pointed out fresh cut vines and tree limbs that suggested Wolf had marked the trail. The men moved quickly and remained quiet; the scouts came and went from each side, keeping the group in sight as they ranged the flanks.

Sahjeed gave a small sign to the men behind him, nodded to Duulaat and they jogged a slight distance ahead.

“I have the strangest feeling, First Guard. We are armed with weapons, but not to hunt. We are strong in numbers, more than I have ever traveled with before. We are ready to fight and a great emptiness fills my stomach.”

“My Chief, I have, not fear, but a great unanswered question in my whole body. What lies ahead?”

Sahjeed smiled as he jogged, “I just wanted to see if only I felt whatever it is I am feeling. We should be near the village before the sun is high. I wonder if Wolf will join us before then?”

“I do not see into Wolf’s mind, my Chief, but I do not think he would go into the village of Suulumaag. He would scout the place where the men disappeared.”

“I agree, Duulaat, drop back through the ranks, see if we need a rest stop yet…find what the mood is…”

“Yes, my Chief.”



Domohaas walked the village for the second time since the war party had left. This time he sought Rahseeta, mate of Duulaat, who had each day visited the Trader's lodge. This day she did not.

He struggled up the slight hill to the Chief’s lodge, saw Rahseeta on the deck and paused before he mounted the steps. His quick eyes caught the tense looks of the three young women surrounding Rahseeta.

Saaleesha, the girl who made the drawing of Wolf, glared at Rahseeta, and then looked at Domohaas. “The mother of the Chief is resting and should not be disturbed, Trader.”

Rahseeta did not smile, but stepped back, “I came only to see if I could be of help to these young girls that care for Malaeeva. It seems they have things well in hand. I will see you at your lodge, Trader.”

The First Guard’s mate walked stiffly down the steps and across the meadow. Domohaas sighed and lowered himself into a chair.

“I did not know what to do!” Cried Laawaleeah, “She was resting, she needs to rest, she was up early…oh, Trader, may I bring you something to drink?”

“You are the girl from the commune? Yes, yes, please, something cool, you are called…?

“Leeah, Trader, yes, the Chief and his mother invited me to stay here while Alahbaand is gone, Alahbaand is my mate, I fear for him and I am alone…I…”

Domohaas reached out a hand and squeezed the girl’s hand, “It is all right little one. I will see what I can do about Rahseeta, but you must expect the mates of the Guards to offer help in caring for the Chief’s mother. They feel it is an obligation.”

The Trader turned to the last girl whose tear stained face pleaded with him. He gently patted her back. Saaleesha stepped forward. “She does not hear or speak well, Trader, she is very upset, Rahseeta was very unkind to her, to all of us. She thinks she should be the one to care for the Chief’s mother. This girl is called Saarosah, she was chosen by the Chief and his mother to stay in this lodge. She does well and should not be treated so badly.”

Domohaas stood up, “Yes, yes…I will do what I can…” He took the drink offered him and downed it quickly. “Thank you, my dear; that was very refreshing. I must get back…we will work this out. Please tell Malaeeva that I stopped by and give her my good wishes.”

Domohaas maneuvered his heavy frame down the steps and across the clearing, shaking his head and muttering to himself.



Sahjeed called his men to a halt as the sun reached halfway to mid sky. He walked among them, watching as they drank deeply, but ate very little of the carefully prepared trail rations.

Shortly before the sun was highest, a scout reported that Suulumaag’s village was in sight.

“We have made good time, my Chief,” said Duulaat.

“Yes, but no sign of Wolf or the boy.” Sahjeed peered through the trees at the outline of a fenced in village. “What are your thoughts, First Guard?”

Duulaat scuffed his hide bound foot in the pine-needled dirt of the forest, “Suulumaag does not know that we come, or how many we are. If things are bad in the village…”

“Ah, yes, I see. Perhaps all but, say, two hands should stay out of sight. I think I should see Suulumaag, you should stay with the main force.”

“Yes, my Chief, I think that would be best. He would not fear just a few men. Do you expect any trouble?”

“I do not know, Duulaat. The village is barricaded but I have seen no one patrolling the open fields. I cannot think that Suulumaag would challenge me, whatever is going on. Do you?”

“I can not say, Suulumaag did not ask us to come, he hasn’t asked for help. No one knows what is going on in the village, only rumors. I would suggest you keep your weapons ready and keep the men alert."

“Good advice, First Guard, I suppose you should have a scout close enough to hear if we have to call for help.”

“Yes, my Chief, I will do that. There is tall grass fairly close to the entrance to the village.”

Sahjeed approached the gate to the village surrounded by his guards. No one appeared on the wall above as they closed to within a few feet of the barricade.

“Hola! In the village!” Sahjeed cupped his hands and shouted.

There was no response for a moment, and then a single head appeared at the top of the barricade, “Who goes there? What do you want?”

Sahjeed raised a hand to block the sun as he looked up, “I am Chief Sahjeed Deeda. First Chief of the People Beedewat has sent me to speak to Chief Suulumaag.”

“Wait! Do not come any closer!” The figure at the top of the barricade shouted and then disappeared.

A few minutes later several figures appeared at the top of the barricade, they all showed bows strung with arrows. The gate before Sahjeed and his men slowly swung outward and more armed men faced the Chief and his guards. One of the men stepped forward, “Only the Chief may enter!”

Sahjeed’s men closed in tighter around him, “I will have one hand of my Guards with me.” Sahjeed said firmly.

The man from the village went back inside for a moment and then came back out, “You may bring only this many,” he held up three fingers, “They must leave their weapons outside!”

“My Guards will not be without weapons. Does Suulumaag fear so few men?” Sahjeed spoke with scorn in his voice.

Again the man from the village turned away and then returned, “Suulumaag fears no one. You may enter.”

Sahjeed’s men surrounded him as best they could and followed the man from the village through the gate, which swung closed behind them.

Sahjeed and his three guards passed through a gauntlet of armed men from the village. None other of the people from the village were visible as they walked up steps into a large lodge.

Sahjeed looked around the large lavishly decorated room to the huge figure sprawled on a heap of furs. Suulumaag did not attempt to rise as Sahjeed approached. As if for show, three bare breasted young women tended to the obese man with drinks and bites of food, he drooled and wiped his lips.

“So…Beedewat finally sent a few braves to my village. Why? What does he want?”

Sahjeed looked upon the grossly huge thighs and distorted belly of the man and wondered if he could even walk. “We have been told of several women missing from your village, Suulumaag. We have also not heard from the two hands of men that were sent before. What can you tell me of them?”

Suulumaag swept his hand slowly across his body, “Nothing…they were here, perhaps a moon ago…they left. My thought was that they returned to their homes. The women missing from the village probably ran away or were taken by the mountain cats or a bear, I do not know.”

Sahjeed’s face was grim as he listened, “Many people from other villages have not heard from family members that live in your village. They say they have been turned back when they try to visit. Why are they not permitted to visit their kin?”

Suulumaag’s face grew hard and reddened, “There is sickness in the village, I do not want others to become ill.”

Sahjeed looked into the narrowed eyes, “I would visit with your People that I might report to the families…”

Suulumaag interrupted, “That will not be possible.” He offered no further explanation, “There is something else you wish…?”

Sahjeed blinked and swallowed, “You would perhaps offer a guide and one hand of men as we search for the lost women?”

Suulumaag laughed, “You have too few men? How many men do you need to kill a bear or a cat? Hah!” He swung his arm and pointed once and then again, “I will give you these to fight the beasts, they are of little use to me.”

Sahjeed looked at the two men Suulumaag had pointed out; both showed streaks of gray in their hair and carried ample bellies before them. He turned back to the heavy jowled man on the furs, “I…”

Suulumaag interrupted, “Enough! I have done as you asked!” He gestured to his guards and they closed around Sahjeed and his men, moving away from Suulumaag.

Sahjeed clenched his jaws together and let his group be led out of the lodge and through the gate in the barricade. He turned and looked back at the walled in village.

Passing through the tall grass, Sahjeed heard the slight movement of the men Duulaat had sent. They stayed out of sight until they were into the brush and then the forest until a small rise obscured the village. Duulaat and the rest of his men moved forward to rejoin Sahjeed.

“Guard these two from the village; kill them if they try to get away!”

Duulaat looked at Sahjeed, “I think I have never seen such anger in your face, my Chief.”

“We will talk later. Let us find a good place to camp, away from here, near water.”

“Yes, my Chief.”

“Guards and scouts are out, my Chief. All have eaten, they rest now.”

“Thank you, First Guard, the two from Suulumaag’s village?”

“Tied and bound to a tree and under guard.”

“Good, I do not trust them. I do not want Suulumaag to know how many we are,” said Sahjeed.

Duulaat added wood to the fire and sat down out of the smoke, close to Sahjeed. “Things are not well in the village?”

“I think it is very bad for the people;” said Sahjeed, “I think we must try to help them, but not at this time. It troubles me.”

Hot drinks were brought as they talked and made plans for the next day. Sahjeed glanced up behind Duulaat into the shadows behind the fire and quickly rose.

Lobolaaht raised his hand and smiled, Alahbaand moved toward the fire from the other side. Duulaat gasped and scrambled to his feet.

“You were not announced! You could not possibly have gotten past the scouts and the guards!” The First Guard was furious.

Wolf stepped forward and grasped Duulaat’s shoulder, “Your Guards are very alert, it took much time to get past them; they nearly had us several times. Young Alahbaand is also very quiet and his eyes are good. He did well. What did you find today, my Chief?”

“Not good, Tracker, but first you, what have you found?”

Duulaat sent for food and drink as Wolf and Alahbaand found places around the fire. “The same as we have been told, my Chief; many tracks leading into the high ground and some, I think are very fresh.”

“How many?” asked Sahjeed, “Can you tell?”

“Only as a guess; a hand of hands, but I think more than one group, we did not have much time.”

“My Chief?” Alahbaand spoke softly.

“Yes?”

“Wolf did not agree with me. On my own I went along the water that flows into the village and found a way to speak with some of People. My Chief, they are slaves! They are starved and beaten and forced to work long and hard, it is like the commune was, it is terrible.”

Sahjeed looked from Wolf to the boy. Wolf locked eyes with Sahjeed, “The boy was sure he could stay unseen. It did not please me that he should risk himself, but he was certain. In all other things he follows my advice.”

The Chief stared into the fire, “It is as I suspected. I was not allowed to even see the People. Suulumaag did not offer the hospitality of an open village. Boy, I have promised your new mate that I would bring you back safely. Do not take such risks lightly.”

“Yes, my Chief. Many of the People are concerned about those who live in Suulumaag’s village. I felt an obligation to see for myself. What will you do?”

Sahjeed stood, “We will do what we can, young friend. But first we must do what we came here to do. Then we will think about what is possible and what is not. We must rest now. I want an early start at first light.”



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 12



TWELVE

Mist rose and low clouds swirled about the tops of the tall evergreens as Sahjeed stood before the assembled group of men. Their morning meal and hot drink finished, campfires covered over and weapons checked; the large, mostly quiet gathering looked at the Chief and First Guard.

Duulaat had slept very little; he probed and tested the alertness of the perimeter guards long before Sahjeed had risen. 

The land slowly changed from flat with a few small rises, to mostly rising hills and small valleys between, as Sahjeed and his men moved east, away from the river and the wide valley. They were divided into three groups of about twenty each and kept within sight of each other. 

Towering Pine and Fir trees, hundreds of years old and some reaching two hundred feet and more into the low clouds, left a thick spongy carpet of needles on the forest floor and their shadows limited the growth of brush and small trees. The forest engendered an eerie silence, even the wind ruffling the treetops high above, could not be heard.

Wolf appeared ahead of the column and found his way to Sahjeed. "My Chief, we did not go through the deep of the forest before. We followed a stream to where it came down from the high land. I am uneasy...I see no tracks of men and very few sign of game...the quiet here gives me a strange feeling..."

Sahjeed nodded and signaled and several other men, including Duulaat and Alahbaand, gathered around. "I thought perhaps going a different way than you did before might show us other things, tracker. I too feel closed in by the forest and I have seen nothing. What is your feeling?"

"We move faster without fighting the brush alongside the stream, my Chief, but I would feel easier following the water between the hills at the edge of the large trees."

Sahjeed glanced at the others around him, "It seems all share your apprehension, Tracker, let us follow the small waters."

Duulaat cleared his throat, "My Chief...traveling as we do, in three groups...I am also uneasy and unsure as to what orders I would give if one group or another comes under attack. But I do not see how to move otherwise; as one large group, we are also at risk. I would favor more open ground."

Sahjeed nodded, "Signal all the men to gather in, let us take a short rest. Wolf, how far and how long to return to the small stream?"

"There are two waters, my Chief, and in between is where the tracks lead into the high ground." Wolf pointed to the north, "I know the one that lies in that way better; there are places to camp, places that can be defended. But I would have us move in the other direction, there are parts along that stream that I have not seen. It is not far to one or the other; we must climb a hill in either case and then go down to the water."

Sahjeed nodded, "We shall go as you say, Tracker; rest yet some more and then send your scouts out."

They paused again as they crested the hill to the south. Through the trees they could see higher hills off in the distance and, far down the hill, sunlight broke through and showed a treeless meadow.

"The water is just beyond the clearing my Chief."

"Thank you Wolf," Sahjeed glanced in all directions, "Is it possible to climb one of these trees?"

Alahbaand stepped forward, "If someone will let me stand on their shoulders, I think I can go up...perhaps that one?"

Two of the tallest lent their shoulders as the young man gained a hold on a low branch and slowly worked his way up the huge trunk of the towering tree. The men watching kept changing positions as Alahbaand ascended and went out of sight behind branches from time to time. The men finally just relaxed and rested, surrounding the tree, looking up when clusters of pine needles and the occasional cone bounced downward from the tree.

Finally, as Sahjeed paced around, looking up every few minutes, they could see the boy slowly descending from branch to branch.

A scraped and scratched and sticky Alahbaand clung to the low branch until his feet found the shoulders of the waiting men. "Smoke!" he gasped, and held up four fingers, "That many smokes!"

They waited until the boy could breathe easy again and listened as he gave the directions and distances of the spirals of smoke rising above the trees. "Suulumaag's village, much...smoke, but..." he pointed, "to each side and where the highland begins, a single smoke from each, my Chief."

The Chief brought the two men from Suulumaag's village before him. They insisted that no one from the village would hunt near the highlands. They shook their heads and would say no more.

"What are we about to face, my Chief?" asked Duulaat.

Wolf came clumping rapidly back to the group of men, "My Chief! Men, four bodies...hanging from the branches of trees! They have been there a long time...ah, animals and flies...there is not much left."

Sahjeed once again questioned the men from the village; they claimed to know nothing.

The Chief called a conference and stood before the men, "You know what I know. We do not know what lies ahead. I would have your suggestions."

"I do not think we should go down the hill, as I did, to where the dead ones are; but the tracks I saw were old," offered Wolf.

"The smoke is before us, toward the highland and on each side," said Duulaat.

"The smoke before us, toward the high ground, is more that way," Alahbaand pointed, "Closer to the smoke in that direction, there is a wide area in between."

"Would it be hunting parties?" asked Sahjeed.

"Perhaps," said Wolf, "But having a fire shows they do not fear being seen. I do not know."

Sahjeed paced back and forth for a moment and then faced them, "We will go in the direction Alahbaand has pointed out. Scouts must be very quiet and very alert; we must all be that way!"

They came down from the hill through the heavy forest and into a small clearing as Wolf met them near the last tall trees. "There are many tracks of men along the bank of the stream, my Chief, and the smokes can not be seen from here. We must be very cautious, but I think none are near."

"Thank you, Tracker, rest now...we will refill our water. Duulaat, twice as many scouts...make a circle around us on both sides of the water."

"Yes, my Chief."

They followed the fast moving stream toward the rising hills as the sun climbed full overhead. The men were on edge, watching closely as scouts trotted out in four directions and returned, being replaced by others who set out at a fast pace. They finally drew to a halt as the stream turned and came down in a small waterfall.

"Between here and the other stream is where the tracks go up into the high ground, my Chief," said Wolf.

The men relaxed as new scouts went out and formed a perimeter; they ate and drank in silence as Sahjeed walked among them. He joined First Guard Duulaat alongside the stream.

Duulaat did not meet Sahjeed's eyes as he spoke, "I am very uneasy, my Chief. I have lost the feeling of excitement in our search. I know we seek those from our village that did not return. I do not think they live."

Sahjeed looked away and did not place his hand on the First Guards shoulder as he usually did in a gesture of encouragement. He sighed and pursed his lips. "My friend, I too, have bad feelings about this journey to find our people. I too, think they are no more. The men who were killed and hung from the trees; who were they? Are they ours, from Suulumaag's village, of the new People? I cannot know, we cannot know. We must go on. We must be alert; we must be ready for anything. I have spoken."

Duulaat stood and blinked at the formal ending of the Chief's words; he understood. "I will speak with the men, my Chief; we will do as we must." The First Guard moved quickly away, leaving Sahjeed gazing into the distance.

Wolf pointed out the wide and much used trail that led up into the high ground. "I have been a small part of sun's journey up this trail before, my Chief, there are many tracks both going up and down."

Only small bushes and tough grasses clung to the broken and jumbled rock that led into the high ground, a few small trees dotted the rocky hillside. Sahjeed could see some distance up the nearly barren landscape.

"If we choose to go into the high ground, it should be at first light, I would think," said the Chief.

Duulaat agreed as he stood beside Sahjeed. Wolf came alongside them, "If we go up the trail to the next stream, I would remain near by this dark and keep watch, my Chief."

Sahjeed thought for a moment, "Not alone my friend, I think you have a good idea, but I would leave you with some men, just in case..."

"Two hands, enough for some scouts on outpost and enough to fight if need be," Duulaat suggested.

"Alahbaand can scout for you my Chief, he has learned quickly," said Wolf. "There is a place to camp near the water, it can be defended, the boy can lead you to it; it is not far back along the second stream."

Sahjeed looked around, "Are we all good with this?"

No one offered any further suggestions; Duulaat selected ten men to stay with Wolf and sent out scouts as the main party prepared to leave.

Sahjeed grasped Wolf's arm, "Be alert my friend, we will return at just after first light."

Wolf tightened his grip on the Chief's arm, "The boy is good, but I wish I could be your eyes."

The sun moved lower in the sky as Sahjeed and his men worked through heavy brush and large rocks alongside the second small stream of water. They paused for a short rest and were moving again when a scout from the rear of the group of men ran through the ranks and approached the Chief.

"I think we are being followed, my Chief!"

Sahjeed stopped suddenly.

"I was just about to turn back and before me, a deer ran into the open, which they seldom do in light, and then birds rose from the ground in the same direction. Something made them flee, I do not know what."

"Thank you, scout, you have done well. Duulaat!"

Sahjeed told the First Guard of the scout's report.

"My Chief!" Sahjeed turned to the sound of Alahbaand's shouted voice at the front of the line of men.

"The place I am to lead us to, has been used! The ashes in the place of fire are still warm!"

Sahjeed and Duulaat looked at each other with a quick hard glance. "My Chief, I would leave two hands with bows behind us to slow them down if they are many, and we should move quickly to the place ahead."

Sahjeed nodded, "Do it! I will go ahead and place the rest of the men. First Guard, do not stay with those left behind, join me, quickly!"

"Yes, my Chief!"

Sahjeed found the site, 'defendable', as Wolf had said. The creek had widened and was shallow. The circle of rocks where the recent fire had been was partially covered by an overhang of rock and vines. Across the shallow stream was a jumble of small trees and larger fallen logs washed down during the rainy season. Behind the covering trees was a bluff; their backs would be protected by the steep hill.

The Chief placed the men across the stream and sent several down in the direction they had come from with orders to harass and then fall back to the main body of men.

Sahjeed was looking over what he had done when he heard shouts from the trail they had followed. Duulaat appeared first, followed by the others of his group.

"We were attacked! From the side! No one was lost, but some were injured, they are many, my Chief!" The First Guard gasped and sat down heavily. "They have protection against our small spears. They hold something before them with one hand, the small spears just bounce off!"

"How many?" Asked Sahjeed.

Duulaat showed both hands, three times. "Some went down, I do not know how many."

"Alahbaand!" shouted Ahjeed.

"Yes, my Chief," said the boy, running up.

"Tell those we placed alongside the stream to stay hidden and wait until they pass, then come in behind them! Hurry! Duulaat, across the stream, there is cover. We will fight from there!"

The shadows had lengthened when they heard the first screams of pain back along the trail. The first of the high ground warriors burst into the clearing holding skin shields of different colors in front of them as they sought out Sahjeed's men.

Those who had been left behind begun finding their way back, following and loosing arrows as they could.

"Long spears in front! Two lines, bows ready!" shouted Duulaat.

The high ground warriors saw the tracks heading into the shallow water and turned as one, shields up, and plunged into the shallow, fast moving water toward Sahjeed's men.

Sahjeed's men, who had been left behind, saw the high grounders commit and crossed the stream behind them, firing arrows into the backs of the screaming warriors. Only a few reached the first line of the Chief's position and were killed by the long spears as they tried to climb the bank. A few scattered moans and cries were quickly squelched by Sahjeed's men. An eerie silence fell over the panting warriors.

Duulaat and Alahbaand went among the men, Sahjeed walked among the fallen high grounders; he crossed the stream and stood before the overhang.

"We have only a hand of injured, my Chief, none are serious, they are being attended to." Duulaat spoke with pride.

"Your men did well, First Guard. Those who thought to come in behind saved us from the close fighting that would have happened. They had the shields, it would seem they know of the short spears we use, yet they do not use that weapon. I wonder why?"

"I can not answer, my Chief. Ah, I think this is not all; we saw other fires. There may be others near by," said Duulaat.

"They used this place as a camp, I would think," said Sahjeed.

"Yes, I think so," said the First Guard. "What are you thinking?"

"That we should build a fire, a large fire and place the bodies around as if they were still alive. If they come, they will not know anything has happened." Sahjeed said slowly, thinking as he talked.

Duulaat blinked and opened and closed his mouth as he listened.

"If there is enough dry grass, we can use the short spears with fire and put the fire behind them," said Sahjeed.

Duulaat stood erect and with his right hand pushed his long spear forward, the butt of it on the ground. "My Chief, when you said that I must fight and you must lead, I did not understand. I thought fighting well was enough." The First Guard turned away and began to set the scene as Sahjeed had described.

From a distance, the still figures around the blazing fire seemed animated in the flickering light; those who appeared to be sleeping under the overhang and others, sitting against trees, also seemed natural. Duulaat had men with bows, hidden and positioned along the trail both above and below the campsite. Only the crackling and snapping of the wood in the fire broke the silence as darkness fell.

They heard them before they saw them. Easy sounds of laughter and chiding conversations as the large band of high grounders came into the light given off by the fire.

Greetings were called out and then screams and mass confusion as the short spears whizzed through the darkness. Many fell before they could raise their shields and turn towards Sahjeed and his men. 

The Chief watched, almost in sadness until screams and cries from the opposite direction pulled his head around to view with startled eyes, another band of high grounders rushing in from the trail they had taken into the site.

The battle suddenly changed as the new group had their shields up and plunged into the shallow water towards the main body of Sahjeed's men. Those of the first group of high grounders also rallied and ran into the water with shields up and spears extended.

The two forces collided and spears were replaced with stone knives and hatchets as men on both sides screamed war cries and pain as weapons bit into flesh.

Duulaat at Sahjeed's right was grappling with a screaming warrior as Sahjeed thrust a spear and connected, he pulled back on the handle but the warrior grabbed and held. Another warrior pulled his arm back and thrust forward. A flash of naked flesh and a body flew through the air bearing Sahjeed to the ground as the high grounder's spear swept down.

"To me! To me!" screamed Duulaat, as he saw the Chief go down. The center of the line was breached and Duulaat could see they were outnumbered and in a bad position. He slashed and screamed and felt the pain and cursed and slashed again, expecting to die.

New screams filled the air as the charge of the high grounders stopped and they turned to face a small group of men shooting arrows and screaming, thrusting spears and then the knives and hatchets. 

In a few minutes, the battle was over and only the carnage and the pain and the moans and screams remained.

Duulaat, bleeding from several cuts, crawled back up the hill, "Chief! My Chief! 

Others came towards him; they pulled the bleeding body of the boy off Sahjeed and quickly sat him up. Blood trickled from the Chief's forehead and his chest and arms showed cuts and gashes.

"I live! The boy? He saved me! Does he live? See to him!" Sahjeed tried to shout but his voice was but a hoarse croak as he tried to clear his eyes.

"He lives, my Chief!" Said Duulaat, "His wound is not bad; he lives!"

The group of men surrounding the Chief parted and Wolf came thumping up, his staff showing red at the tip. "The Chief? He lives?" shouted the Tracker.

"I live, Lobolaaht!" said Sahjeed, "Thanks to the boy you trained and only because of him, but I live!" Sahjeed was helped to his feet, "And we all live because of you! How did you know to come?"

"You have been injured, my Chief!" Wolf said as he moved closer.

"Not badly, I think, my friend, but the boy?" Sahjeed shuffled toward where Alahbaand lay.

"He will survive, my Chief," said Duulaat, "He took the spear point in the back but it glanced off the bone in his shoulder. He is not badly hurt."

"He took the spear that was meant for me," said the Chief, "I could not have stopped it; I saw it coming, it would have killed me, I am certain." 

"We were lost, my Chief," said First Guard, "They had us, but for the men with Wolf, we would be no more."

"They passed by us as the sun went down, my Chief. We saw the glow of the fire against the clouds; I knew you would not have such a fire. I sent the men at a fast run. I arrived only in time to crack a few heads. I regret that I am so late to arrive."

Sahjeed let a small grin cross his face and tapped a finger to his forehead; "It is your eyes and your mind that has saved us, Tracker, one could ask no more." The Chief turned to the First Guard and the smile left his face, "We lost many..."

Duulaat lowered his eyes, "Yes, my Chief, I do not know..."

TWELVE

Mist rose and low clouds swirled about the tops of the tall evergreens as Sahjeed stood before the assembled group of men. Their morning meal and hot drink finished, campfires covered over and weapons checked; the large, mostly quiet gathering looked at the Chief and First Guard.

Duulaat had slept very little; he probed and tested the alertness of the perimeter guards long before Sahjeed had risen. 

The land slowly changed from flat with a few small rises, to mostly rising hills and small valleys between, as Sahjeed and his men moved east, away from the river and the wide valley. They were divided into three groups of about twenty each and kept within sight of each other. 

Towering Pine and Fir trees, hundreds of years old and some reaching two hundred feet and more into the low clouds, left a thick spongy carpet of needles on the forest floor and their shadows limited the growth of brush and small trees. The forest engendered an eerie silence, even the wind ruffling the treetops high above, could not be heard.

Wolf appeared ahead of the column and found his way to Sahjeed. "My Chief, we did not go through the deep of the forest before. We followed a stream to where it came down from the high land. I am uneasy...I see no tracks of men and very few sign of game...the quiet here gives me a strange feeling..."




The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 13



THIRTEEN

Sahjeed slept. Duulaat insisted; as did Wolf. Many did not, as they attended to the injured and moved the fallen aside. Alahbaand regained consciousness and his first words were of the Chief.

First light brought a change of wind direction, the mist wafted away and a warm wind from the east evaporated the clouds and a clear day dawned.

Sahjeed came painfully awake with a throbbing head and small sharp pains along his arms and chest. He sat up and saw a small fire with several gathered around and others covered and lying on pine boughs close to the warmth.

The Chief started at Duulaat's voice behind him, "Scouts are out, backed up by Guards at the ready, the others rest and recover, my Chief. I have hot tea."

Sahjeed attempted to rise, groaned, and then settled back against a log. "Thank you, my friend. I welcome the warm drink."

"We lost two hands, my Chief. Another hand is very bad; two more hands are not so bad. Many have small injuries."

"The boy?"

"He is awake and asking about you, my Chief."

Sahjeed closed his eyes, "It was a close thing, my friend."

"Yes, my Chief, it was."

Sahjeed sipped and then finished his drink, "Would you help me stand, First Guard, I would see the men."

The men of Sahjeed Deeda knew it had been a close thing. They were not joyous in their victory, only happy to be alive. They were however, most happy to see him among them.

"I could do nothing else, my Chief," said the boy, Alahbaand, as Sahjeed placed a hand on his forehead. 

"You gave me my life, my son," said the Chief.

"As you gave me mine, and hers," smiled the boy through his pain.

"Rest and heal, Alahbaand."

"My Chief, the village? We will help?"

"Yes," replied the Chief.

As the day drew on, Sahjeed and the others recovered spirit and cautiously spoke to each other.

"There is not much hope that our people still live," said Duulaat.

"No, there is not," said the Chief."

"Then we end it here? asked Wolf.

"There may be others from the high ground," said Duulaat.

"Can we still fight? Sahjeed asked.

Duulaat shuffled his feet, "I cannot answer that, my Chief. Do you think there are more high ground warriors? What of their village? They must have kin, mates and children, where would they be?"

"The high ground, where else?" said Sahjeed, "Let us leave this for another time. We need rest. I will think better with a new sun." 

"We risk everything," said Duulaat.

"I know that, First Guard, but we have not found our missing people and we must do something for the people of Suulumaag's village. I have given my word," said Sahjeed, softly.

Lobolaaht, Wolf, looked at Duulaat, "How many can travel and fight, if need be, and how many can defend, here, if need be?"

Duulaat was reluctant to answer, "I do not know if I wish to seek another battle, or if the men will fight again. These are things I can not answer. Some that I have known all my life are no more."

The Chief looked closely into Duulaat's eyes, "My friend, we need not hurry our decision. We have been through much. I would have you spend this sun and perhaps another in rest. I will direct the scouts and Guards until you are rested."

"But... " objected Duulaat.

"You will rest, First Guard, it is my wish," said Sahjeed.

Duulaat found a secluded niche behind a fallen tree and slept all of that day, the night and until the sun was high and falling the next day. He awoke hungry and irritable and surprised to find one of his own Guards watching over him. "You have nothing better to do?" he snarled.

The Guard stepped back, "The Chief has placed me here; I do as he says, First Guard."

Duulaat made him self presentable, found something to eat and drink and then sought out the Chief.

"Since I have been called First Guard, I have not been away from my men for this long. I ask you to forgive me, my Chief."

"There is nothing to forgive, my friend," said Sahjeed as he clasped Duulaat's arm. "Many needed to put things aside, I too have rested much of the time. Do your thoughts clear?"

"Yes, my Chief, tell me what you want and I will find a way to do it. I do not know why I could not... "

"It is not only the body that tires, First Guard, we will talk as the sun goes down."

"The high grounders were warriors," said Wolf, "They have earned the right of an honorable passing."

"It is much work to offer them to the Lights," said Duulaat. "There are many, many hands... "

"It needs to be done, my friend," said the Chief. "Let us find a place and lay them out in the proper way. The men are rested now, it will give them something to do and remind them of what we have done, for good or for bad. I have spoken."

Malaeeva, the Chief's mother, was sitting on the deck of her lodge as Rahseeta, mate of the First Guard, walked up the pathway. She paused and then slowly mounted the steps.

Malaeeva did not rise, nor did she offer refreshments.

"The mother of the Chief is well?"

"Yes, Rahseeta, I am well and well taken care of."

Rahseeta blinked her eyes rapidly and changed the expression on her face. "I, we, the ladies of the Guards, only wish to help."

Malaeeva met her eyes and held her gaze steady, "Yes, and it is greatly appreciated. It is a comfort to know so many are ready to help and all I need do is send someone to beckon you here. I am happy that the ladies of the Guard hold the Chief's mother in great respect."

Rahseeta understood the polite rebuff and offered a slight smile as she lowered her eyes, "I will come whenever you call, anytime at all. I am relieved that you are in good spirit. Is there news from Suulumaag's village?"

Malaeeva returned the slight smile and slowly shook her head, "No, there has been no word. I will make certain to let everyone know if any news is heard. Thank you for your concern. Should you hear anything, I would ask that you share it also."

Rahseeta brightened and smiled, "I surely will. I must leave now, is there anything I can do?"

Malaeeva shook her head and smiled as the First Guard's mate turned and quickly walked down the steps.

The moment Rahseeta was out of sight, the three young women rushed from the lodge and surrounded the Chief's mother. She smiled at the anxious faces, "I think the mate of the First Guard will trouble us no more."

They chatted and prepared a lunch and welcomed Shaweena Deeda, the Healer, who often stopped by at mid-day.

After they had eaten and cleared the table, Saarosah timidly approached Shaweena and the Chief's mother. "Would... you... walk with... me... just a... short way... please?"

She led them slowly around the side of the hill that backed the Chief's lodge and to the edge of a meadow bordered by a small stream. She stopped near a fallen tree whose limbs had been used for firewood. Dried ferns covered a part of a thick limb that rested on the grass of the clearing.

"Healer... honorable... mother... of Chief, this... is very... hard... for me to say... but... must... please help...?"

The young girl who had tended Sahjeed and his mother and shared their lodge kept her eyes down as she spoke. Both women moved to her side and touched her arms.

"What is it you would say, my child?" gently asked Malaeeva, "You may speak of anything, we will listen... and help if we can, please."

The girl clasped her arms to each side under her breasts, kept her eyes averted and spoke quietly, "Saarosah... me... I... am not girl... woman... now. Have feelings... here." She raised a hand and placed in over her heart. "Feelings... for Chief... for mother... of Chief... never before... these... feelings... of tears... and... " She opened her arms and raised a tear stained face and stretched her arms out in a wide embrace, "and... warm... to hold... to comfort.

"Not... pretty... , picture by... Saaleesha... not true... not me... do not... say words... well... do not... see or hear... good... but... still feel... these things... inside."

Malaeeva and Shaweena moved closer to the girl and put an arm each around her back, "Dear sweet child... " said the Chief's mother, "You... " 

Saarosah pulled away and interrupted, "Please... must say... very... hard... please?"

Both women stepped back as the girl knelt down and brushed the dried ferns off of the fallen limb. Their eyes opened wide as they saw a smaller branch on the limb had been carved and smoothed. The up thrusting carved wood was about six inches tall, narrow at the top and widened to about two inches at the base.

Saarosah looked away as she spoke, "Watch Sahjeed... sleep... sometimes... his, ahh... manhood... stands up in... night. Saarosah... not child... see maidens... and... braves... in hiding... know... what... they do. Want to... comfort... Chief... want to... hold him... ease his... need."

The girl paused and looked up, glancing at the startled eyes of Malaeeva and Shaweena. "Must... prove... have you... see... this woman... not been... opened... by other man. Also ask... Healer... for... medicine... not make... baby... not want... child... of Chief... to be... broken... like me. Please... you... understand? You... will... help?"

Saarosah turned, straddled the downed tree, lifted her skirt and moved over the carved branch. Both women stepped forward and took her by the arms and pulled her away.

"Oh, my child!" cried Malaeeva, "You must not do this thing!"

Saarosah looked startled as she glanced from face to face, "But... I thought... you would... understand. Only want to... ease his needs... but... not... to... have baby... it is... a good thing... I wish... to do. Chief... should not... have... woman... used by... others... not... proper."

Malaeeva led her away, towards a shaded place with other downed trees; they found a place to sit. She sat down next to the girl, put her arms around her and rocked gently back and forth. Shaweena stood close by.

The Chief's mother spoke close to the girl's ear, "I do understand, my child and it is a, ah, you show that you have deep feelings for my son and that you want to... but... you do not know Sahjeed."

Saarosah lifted her head and looked into Malaeeva's eyes, "Not... know him? But... "

"I do not think my son would, 'use' a woman to satisfy his needs. He would have long ago had he been that way."

"But all... men... that I... have seen... "

"Sahjeed is not like others, my child."

Shaweena leaned close, "And you are not like other maidens, Saarosah. Many would use the closeness you have to the Chief to gain advantage for them selves. Were you to lay with the Chief, he would be honor bound to mate with you. It is the way he is."

Saarosah's eyes opened wide, "But... I have... not ever... thought of that... I am not... proper... as a mate... for the Chief... he... would have... someone... much better than... me... I... am... nothing."

Shaweena watched as the girl spoke, "You mean that, do you not? My child, you are more than you think and you are more in the thoughts of Sahjeed than you know."

Saarosah blinked away tears, "I do not... understand... "

Malaeeva leaned close again, "Sahjeed has loved before, in his youth. She died of a sickness... he has looked at no woman since, but, my child, he looks at you, he sees you, even as he does not see the daughters of Domohaas."

Shaweena leaned close, "I must return to the village, but," she winked at Malaeeva, "We have a small surprise for you, perhaps late this sun, perhaps the next. Come, we must go back."

Sahjeed Deeda's men performed the rites for those of his men who had fallen in the battle. It was a somber line that slowly walked by, leaving an object of remembrance and a handful of soil in each grave. The Chief stayed and slowly walked back and forth before each site, pausing again and again.

Each had a separate site and stones from the nearby creek filled in the shallow dug resting places. Next to the line of Sahjeed's men, a long line of the high grounders, shoulder to shoulder, lay slightly raised to face the setting sun. There was a total of a hundred and one laid to rest.

"I did not know there were so many, my Chief," said the First Guard, as he quietly moved to Sahjeed's side.

Sahjeed looked down the long line, "Many lives have been taken here in this forsaken place. I would know if there is meaning in all this."

Lobolaaht stood near-by, "The shields they carried, would they be useful?"

"They are light and easily carried," said Duulaat, "They did not have the short spears, but it would be more protection that we have."

"Let those who would use them, do so," said the Chief.

"It is decided then, my Chief?" Asked the First Guard.

"Yes, my friend, we leave at first light."

"If you must fight again, I will not be by your side. I am uneasy with that." Duulaat did not meet the Chief's eyes.

"It is the best I can see to do, First Guard. We came to discover the fate of the men we sent before, I must do that. The injured must be protected and cared for, I leave you to do that."

"Yes, my Chief." Duulaat still did not look up.



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 14



The new day broke warm and clear as the day before. The men gathered around the still burning fire at the campsite; most carried the newly discovered shields of the high grounders.

“We have not sent a scout with news to our People,” said Duulaat.

“We can not spare a man,” said Sahjeed, “And I do not wish to take the chance that Suulumaag’s men may stop a messenger and learn of our numbers. Those from the village still live?”

“They were not cowards my Chief. One is no more, the other took a spear in the stomach, he may not live,” answered the First Guard.

“The boy? He did not seem well when I saw him last dark.”

“His wound is not good, my Chief, we have done all we know how to do.”

Sahjeed was troubled; “I would not lose him now. We will try to return quickly and get him back to our People. Wish us well, First Guard.”

“You know that I do, my Chief, I only wish…”

Wolf had set out earlier and returned soon after Sahjeed led the men back up the trail. “There are no new tracks, Chief, and I saw no smoke.”

They arrived at the track going up into the high ground with most of the morning still ahead of them. Wolf had gone on up the trail for a distance, but was waiting in a shaded area, as a scout, and then the men of Sahjeed came into view.

“I have nothing to report, my Chief. I have been up the trail and I see nothing new.”

“You do good work, tracker; the climb is hard?” asked Sahjeed.

“It is steep, but it has been well used and perhaps even some work done on it. It is passable as far as I have gone.”

“We would rest for a short time,” said Sahjeed, “What of you?”

“I would take another with me, one who is quick and with good eyes.”

The Chief chose a Guard and watched as Wolf and the man began climbing the rock-strewn trail. 

They climbed slowly and cautiously, constantly alert as the sun rose higher in the sky. Just before high sun, the Guard who had left with Wolf came quickly back down the trail. “There is smoke and a cave! We saw only one person, an old man on lookout, he did not see us; the Tracker is keeping watch.”

“Good work, Guard,” said Sahjeed as he signaled the men forward.

Wolf was waiting for them as the trail turned sharply under an overhang and then opened to a wide area with trees and grass and a small meandering stream. Wolf pointed; Sahjeed stood beside him and slowly raised his head to look over a rocky outcrop.


“We are out of spear range, but in the open and we could be seen from the cave if we step out, Chief.”

“It looks as though a small boy has joined the old man,” said Sahjeed.

Wolf looked again, “Yes, I see, he sits next to him on the rock above the cave.”

Sahjeed turned back to his men and flashed two hands and gestured for them to follow him. With shields up, they moved out into the open area in front of the cave, their shadows were short behind them as they faced the sun.

There was a high-pitched shout as the boy jumped up and pointed. The old man stood, peering and brandishing his spear. For a moment nothing happened as Sahjeed’s men spread out in front of the large opening at the front of the cave.

There was a flurry of motion in the shadow of the opening of the cave and then a tall thin woman with long gray hair, wearing a flowing black robe appeared, looked up at the boy and the old man and then at the men in front of the cave. No one moved.

Sahjeed moved in front of the men and took slow steps forward, “Hola!” he called out.

The old man on top of the cave shouted a strange word and then cast his spear in a long arc that ended several paces in front of Sahjeed. The boy threw a smaller spear that landed close to the other one.

Sahjeed’s men raised their bows, “Hold!” shouted Sahjeed.

They watched speechless as the old man gestured and screamed and then threw himself off the ledge and landed heavily not far from the woman. The old man did not move on the ground.

The woman turned and screamed at the boy who appeared ready to jump. Upon hearing the woman’s voice he backed away from the edge and disappeared from sight.

Sahjeed and his men advanced slowly as the rest of his group came from behind the rocks and fanned out behind him, weapons at the ready. The boy reappeared and at a gesture from the woman, ran to her side; she pulled him behind her and faced the men in front of her.

“Hola,” spoke Sahjeed again, standing some twenty paces away from her.

“Hollla?” Her voice was uneven; her posture was tense.

Sahjeed gestured for her to come forward, away from the front of the cave opening. She did so slowly, keeping the boy behind her.

“Do you understand my words?” asked Sahjeed.

“Not my words,” she said slowly, “But, I hear…”

“Men…warriors…are they here? Do you have weapons?”

She pointed at the shields, “Our warriors…all go to fight, none left here; women, children, old people, no men.”

Sahjeed pointed, “Have your people come out.”

The woman looked at Sahjeed, “You will kill all of us? It is your way?”

Sahjeed shook his head from side to side, “No. We do not fight women and children. Have them come out. They will not be harmed. It is my word as Leader.”

“Not believe you. You will use women; then kill all.”

“They must have no weapons, not even cooking knives. They will not be harmed. Have them come out or I must send men in to get them,” Sahjeed put a firmer tone in his voice.

The woman continued to hesitate, “None of our men are left? Have you killed all of them?”

“They fought hard, old woman, many died, my men also. You must have your people come out from the cave.”

Her face fell and her posture slumped, “It is the end. We are no more.” She pulled the boy from behind her, spoke a few words that Sahjeed could not understand and pushed him toward the cave.

They waited without words until silent figures, some carrying children, came slowly out of the shadow of the cave into the sunlight. Four women, all young, separated from the main group which numbered nearly fifty not counting the children.

The woman who had been speaking with Sahjeed turned to face them; she spoke a few rapid words that the Chief could not understand.

Almost simultaneously, all the women, including the one who spoken, placed their children on the ground, turned around, raised their skirts and bent over, exposing their bare bodies before Sahjeed and his men. The four women who stood apart remained standing; staring at Sahjeed and the other women who offered themselves.

The Chief could find no words, he glanced at his men, some were embarrassed and looked away; others laughed and made gestures with their hands and pelvises.

“Tell them to stand, old woman! To use women in this manner is not the way of my People. Tell them that! Tell them they will not be harmed! Now!” Sahjeed spoke loudly.

The old woman stood and let her robe fall, covering her again. She spoke rapidly and loud, the women stood and turned to face Sahjeed and his men.

The four women who stood apart suddenly ran forward and fell at Sahjeed’s feet, “You are of our People!” said one, “We were taken from our village and held here! We had given up hope of ever being free again!”

Sahjeed told the women to stand, “You are from Suulumaag’s village?”

“Yes!” answered the one who spoke before, “Who are you? Does Suulumaag still lead? We are so happy you have come!”

“I am Sahjeed Deeda, leader of my village. You will be safe now.” The Chief turned and signaled his men, “Old woman, I must have my men look in your cave. If there are any with weapons inside, have them come out now or they will be killed.”

“There is only a sick old man, he will not be sad if you take his life.”

Sahjeed looked into the woman’s eyes as the men cautiously approached the cave entrance.

“You learned to speak my words from the captured women? What are you called? Who are you?” Sahjeed stepped just out of arm’s reach to the woman.

She met his gaze and did not falter in her words, “What will you do with us? We cannot live without our men to provide for us; surely not all were killed?”

Sahjeed looked at her for a long moment and then raised both his hands and opened and closed them many times. “That many died, I do not know how many others may be. But that many have gone to the Lights.”

The woman hung her headed and moaned, “That is all our People, from all our caves. There are no more, you have killed us.” She moaned again and swayed, “What are we to do, we are no more.”

“There are more caves of your people?” asked the Chief.

The old woman blinked away her tears and dabbed at her eyes, “You will not kill them? What will you do with us? If you leave us here, we will die. Oh, what are we to do?”

Sahjeed looked around at the group of women and children, closely clustered together, clinging to each other, not understanding the words, but feeling the hopeless in the woman’s voice.

The men came back out of the cave and signaled Sahjeed that all was well. The Chief relaxed and took a deep breath.

“You spoke truth, old woman. No men were found in your cave. It was necessary that I make certain.”

She looked into his face and saw him for the first time, “I understand. You lost many of your men in the battle?”

“Not nearly as many as your People lost. What are you called?”

She stood tall before him, “I am called Ulla Coodra, I am the Medicine Woman of my People, of all caves; I am the Elder of this Cave. I serve the People.” She stepped back and bowed slightly to Sahjeed.

Sahjeed saw her stature in her words, “I am Sahjeed Deeda, Leader of my village, descended from Ahjeed, First Chief of my People; I too, serve the People. I regret we must meet in this way.”

Ulla Coodra looked up at him, “I do not know all of your words, but I understand the way in which they were said.” She looked away, “We tried to meet in peace; it was not possible.”

“We must talk more, later, Medicine Woman,” Sahjeed leaned forward looking into her face. “Would you turn so the sun is in your eyes?”

She frowned and tilted her head, but did as he asked.

“They are the color of the sky!” exclaimed Sahjeed. “None of my People have such colored eyes! How can this be?”

The woman smiled for the first time, “Only a few of my people have eyes such as mine. It is in our Legends, we must find time to talk of such things…ah…Sahjeed?”

“Yes, that is what I am called,” said the Chief. He paused for a moment and looked over the area around the cave, “I must think of what would be best to do. You say you cannot stay here without the men? What are your thoughts, Medicine Woman, Elder of this Cave?”

She also looked around the cave area and at what remained of her People. “No others of my People have come down from the mountains in my life time. There is no place to go back to. We cannot remain here. We must leave and cannot go back. Those are the things I know. I can speak of no more.”

Sahjeed offered a slight smile, “If you can not stay here, and you can not go back, then, you must go with us. How and what will happen, I do not know. What would you say to that?”

Ulla Coodra tilted her head and looked into Sahjeed’s face again, “It is a man’s way to see the bones of a problem and reach an answer. That answer is in my mind also, as no other answer is there. But, as you say, the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ are yet to be resolved. What would you have me say to my People?”

Sahjeed thought for a moment, “You must tell them that their mates are no more but that they will live and will not be treated badly. I would have you go with me to the other Caves of your People and tell them also. That is a beginning. How do you say?”

“It is a beginning. When do you wish to do these things?”

“Now,” said Sahjeed, “I must return, I have left injured men behind.”

“You have even more warriors than there are here?”

“A few,” said the Chief, “Tell your People, I will leave some men here and we will go on to the next of your Caves. Have them prepare to leave, they can take only what can be carried.”

Sahjeed spoke to his men and chose those who would stay and those who would go on to the next cave. Wolf was uneasy.

“My Chief, what if we are being lured into a trap? What if there are more high ground warriors ahead. We leave some here and have fewer to fight with. I am not sure of this.”

“Your words are heard, Tracker, and appreciated. But I hear in the Medicine Woman’s voice a truth that I do not doubt. I do not know why, but these People risked every warrior they had. They lost, but they would not have lost had we not been ready. They would have taken Suulumaag’s village, easily. I do not know all of this, nor am I certain we will not meet other high grounders, but it is my feeling. I ask you to go with me on my feelings.”

“My Chief, I have said that I serve and I will. But I must give you my feelings also or I do not live up to my own self. I have done that and I will follow where you lead. Hoorrah!”

Sahjeed smiled and clasped arms with Lobolaaht, “For a man who might have been my father, I am pleased that we serve together.”

Wolf glanced at the Chief, but did not speak.

There was another old man on watch at the second cave, but the Medicine woman hailed him and he came down to join the rest of the People as they filed from the cave and faced Sahjeed and his men.

All went quietly as Ulla Coodra; the Medicine Woman explained what had happened and what was left for them to do. She could not stop the offering of the women’s bodies as tribute to the conqueror, it was, ‘the way of the People’, she said to the Chief.

One woman did not offer her body to Sahjeed’s men.

The Chief looked at the Medicine Woman with a question in his eyes.

Leaving the women with their bodies exposed, Ulla Coodra lowered her eyes and spoke to Sahjeed, “This woman is a child of my mother. It is not known who her father was, it is only chance that I know who sired me. It is the way of the People. But she is…she is mate of the Leader of this Cave. But the Leader was weak, he did not lead, it is she that leads and she leads badly. The People detest her; she is cruel and vicious when challenged. There will be much trouble if she remains as she is. I have heard you speak of the ‘ways’ of your People and I respect that; but, I ask, that you take my warning of the danger she will be.”

Sahjeed listened and turned to her, “What would you have me do? I will not take her life.”

The Medicine Woman met the Chief’s stare and held it, “I will force her to present herself to your men, I ask that you allow those who will, to use her before the other women. She will loose face and not have the respect of the others, if you do not, I shall have to take her life; there is no other way. With power she is terrible, with no power; she can be controlled. Those are my words, Sahjeed.”

Sahjeed’s face hardened, “This is not a good thing for my men, but I understand you. Rather than her death, I will do as you wish. Medicine Woman, I would have your oath to me as I trust you in this.”

Ulla Coodra went to her knees and extended her arms and then rose, “I will serve as you choose…Sahjeed.”

She pointed and held out her hand, Sahjeed gave her his wood handled stone knife. She turned and screamed at the single woman still standing and brought the knife close to her face. The woman turned white and dropped to her knees, raising her skirt as she did.

Sahjeed turned and pointed to the men he knew to be without mates and gestured to the woman who had just presented herself.

The men blinked in disbelief and laughed with embarrassment until one was pushed forward by his friends. He looked at Sahjeed, the Chief nodded and then turned away.

The woman tried to move away as he came behind her, but he held her hips and thrust against her until he made entry. She made no sound but looked up as the other women turned their heads and watched.

The second guard mounted her and still she did not move or make a sound. The watching women stood and moved around in front of her pointing and laughing.

The third guard was a large man who had fought well and killed and was full of him self. He did not immediately come into her, but grasped her breasts from behind her and roughly squeezed and rubbed until she cried out. The women laughed. He brought a huge calloused hand around her thigh and between her legs and moved his hand back and forth. With his hand still there, he came close up behind her, grabbed a handful of her hair with his other hand and then plunged inside her, grunting and thrusting so that she was lifted with each thrust. Sounds began coming from her throat as the women cheered and clapped; she screamed and rose to accept him time and time again until finally he fell on top of her and forced her to the ground.

The Medicine Woman went to her and pulled her up by the hair and spoke loud and fast as the women fell silent. Ulla then dropped her head and kicked her side and turned to the women and spoke again, hard and fast.

She came before Sahjeed, dropped to her knees and bowed her head. “What needed to be done is done. The People of this Cave will follow you, not her. I serve the Chief.”

“Tell them to make ready to leave, we shall return early the next sun. We can reach the last cave while the sun still shines?” asked Sahjeed.

She did not even look at the sun, “It is very close my Chief, there will be much light left when we arrive. Ahh, you should take the big man with you to the next village or he will not be ready to travel at next sun.” The Medicine Woman gave Sahjeed a wry smile.

The final cave of the high ground people had no one watching the trail. Instead, there were children playing and goats grazing and small dogs running after laughing children.

Sahjeed exclaimed, “Woman, they have creatures of the forest near their cave? Why is this?”

“You do not have the goats for milk and meat and the old wolves to watch? I do not understand. We have always had these things; each cave has its own.”

Sahjeed’s eyes were wide, “Not even in the Legends of my People and I have listened to many. This is a new thing to me. You must tell me how such things can be.”

The women of the third cave presented themselves as had those at the caves before. It was the ‘way of the people’; it signified that they were conquered and knew it and would do as the new leaders demanded, what ever that may be; so that they and their children might live. Sahjeed Deeda began to understand and was not as shocked as he was before.

“It was the second long cold time that was longer than we had known. We had to kill most of the male goats, and the dogs, all but a few and the females who carried puppies or we would have starved. It was the worst time in all our memory.

“We sent four of our men, with the black stone for blades and the cheese of the goats and the fire stones that we found. We wanted to trade for food, so that we might live. Our men were butchered like animals, we had no choice.”

Sahjeed and Lobolaaht listened closely as they sat around the fire outside the third cave of the high ground people.

“We were sent, by the Chief of all our People, because some of our people, women, were missing from the village near you. We did not know of your People, but thought mountain cats or bears had taken them. We sent a small group to help, but they did not return.”

“They were killed, Sahjeed. The men were blood angry when they found those sent to trade had been hung from trees and their bodies cut in terrible ways. It was thought those you sent were the ones responsible.

“We took the women, but it is the way of the People. In our ways, a woman is not left alone outside a village unless she is not wanted. A maiden might wait outside a cave, alone, because there is no one she wishes to mate with. It is the same with the elders who no longer serve a purpose, they will wait to be taken by another cave, or they wait to die. Our warriors thought the women, left alone outside your village were no longer wanted or needed. As I began to know them and learned to speak as they spoke, I suspected it was not so, that our ways were different, but it was not my place to speak.”




The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 15



FIFTEEN

It was as Ulla Coodra, the Medicine Woman, said it would be. Sahjeed's men were up early and helped prepare for the journey down the hill to the second cave. They could not leave the animals behind although the Chief was uneasy with women and children pulling goats along and carrying wolf puppies down the mountain.

The second cave of the high ground people were ready to leave when Sahjeed and his entourage arrived. They joined with the people of the first cave and nearly two hundred people, mostly women and children, left the high ground and descended into the valley.

Ulla put her hand on Sahjeed's arm as they passed a jumbled rock fall near the bottom of the trail. "It was here that the two hands of men you lost were sent to the Lights. It was done so with honor as they fought well, even though they were caught by surprise. They did not give up; they fought until all were killed. I share your grief, Sahjeed Deeda. I can say no more."

The Chief stopped and gathered his men around the rock pile and told them what he had learned. They each left a small item among the broken rocks and faced in the direction of the setting sun and wished well for their fallen people.

Scouts had announced their approach and First Guard Duulaat came down the trail with open arms to greet Sahjeed and his men and to gaze in wonder at what he saw.

"There were no warriors? You had no problems, my Chief?"

"It went well, First Guard, the Lights were kind to us. You are well? No others came near?"

"It has been quiet, my Chief, I feared a patrol from the village, or more of those from the high ground, but nothing happened. Chief, our wounded are not well, I fear for the boy and the man from the village."

"Alahbaand is not well? I worry for him. Duulaat, we have many to care for, to feed and to find shelter for. I place it in your hands to put this all together. Take me to the boy."

Sahjeed sent for the Medicine Woman as soon as he saw Alahbaand and the other wounded, all seemed feverish and very sick.

Ulla Coodra stomped her feet and said words Sahjeed did not understand. "These men will all die! Have you no one who knows how to heal? Why have these men been left like this?"

"Those who learned the healing best were killed in the battle, Medicine Woman; we did the best we could. Can you help them? The young boy is important to me, he saved my life by offering his own; he must live."

"I will do what I can, Sahjeed, they should have been tended to before this; I will need much water that is boiled with stones and some of my people to help. It must be now; there is no time to lose!"

Ulla Coodra commanded the services of a dozen or more of Sahjeed's men and several of her own people as she attacked the infected and swollen wounds of the men. She cut open and cleaned and cauterized dozens of wounds that were not healing. The screams of pain lanced through Sahjeed but he gave his trust to the woman.

"All will live, Sahjeed, the boy cannot be moved for a few suns; I have yet to begin upon the man with the stomach wound. I must open his belly and see if what is damaged inside can be fixed. If it cannot be fixed, he will die. If it can be fixed, he may still die, it has been too long, but, if you wish, I will do what I can."

"Do what you can, Woman, it is in your hands." Sahjeed did not watch.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"Scouts are out, hunters are out and some have returned, all have shelter and there is food for everyone. We seem to have things working my Chief. The boy is awake and his fever is less, he wishes to speak with you."

Sahjeed sat with his back against a log, a fur over his legs, blinking at the morning sun, "Thank you First Guard, I slept longer than I had wanted." The Chief took the bowl of hot tea Duulaat held out and brought it slowly to his mouth.

"The Healer from the high ground People wishes to speak with you, my Chief."

"Yes, of course, bring her."

"Good morning, Ulla."

"Good morning to you, ah, Sahjeed, you are easy to speak with me?"

"You have saved the lives of some of my men; I am in your debt."

"It is what I do, Sahjeed, as you, I serve the People."

"Yes, we do. You wanted to speak to me?"

"I am told and I have seen that you have prepared but not done the ritual for our men. I would let the women see and say goodbye. It was good of you to treat them as honorable warriors. Our people will hold you in high esteem for what you have done, even though it is the end of our ways."

"I would attend if you wish."

"No, my Chief, although I understand why you say that; it is more than a ritual of the passing of a man of our People; it is the end of a way of life. We must do that without you. But..."

"Yes, I think I understand, if we can be of help?"

"Moving stones for the final act...your men could help, if they would? Some would also go to the other place where our warriors, were killed, we would ask for some of your men to go along."

"They too, respect the brave men they fought, they will help."

"Thank you...my Chief."

"Suulumaag's village, we must help them," The boy spoke with a strained voice.

"Yes," said Sahjeed, "I have given my word and we will, but much has happened. You need to recover your strength; only you have spoken with the people of the village. Can you tell someone how we might do as you did? Or must we wait until you can walk again?"

"It is a very small place to go through to get under the barricade my Chief, I would not have some one else risk what I learned."

"Then we will wait for you, young friend. We have much to think about."

"Have you sent a runner to our village? Does Laawaleah know of my injury?"

"No, I have not sent a runner. I could not spare even one to send and I feared that Suulumaag might discover what we have done. I have also thought of those we have lost and how to best tell those in the village and of Galawaand's people. It is not an easy thing."

"Oh, I see, my Chief, I did not think of the others, only that she would worry. You must do as you think best. If you have another who could speak to the people of Suulumaag's village, I will help as best as I can."

Sahjeed smiled, "I know you would help, Alahbaand, I must think on this matter and many more. Rest and get your strength back, I miss you at my side." 

"Thank you, my Chief, I am not happy lying on my stomach with nothing to do."

The ceremony of the Lights, as the women from the high ground said goodbye to their men, was different than the way of Sahjeed's people. The women carried pitch-saturated branches burning in the darkness as they paused at each warriors resting place. The sound of their voices rose in the night air and carried to the men of Sahjeed as they watched. Then they gathered in a circle around the shallow graves and one woman after another spoke and cried and screamed in broken voice until, finally it was quiet. The men of Sahjeed carried stones as they were directed until all were covered and protected.

As a group, women and children and the few elders that survived, approached the fire of Sahjeed.

Ulla Coodra, Medicine Woman of the high ground People, slowly came before Sahjeed Deeda. "We have decided to offer service to the People of Sahjeed and ask that they accept us as one of their own. We ask only that we can stay together, as much as possible, when you decide where we shall live. It is spoken."

The Chief stood before the People of the high ground and looked upon them. He looked at the Medicine Woman and she nodded back to him. 

"I did not bring warriors here to do battle with your men."

Ulla spoke the words to her people and then waited....

"Had we known that you wanted only to trade and live in peace, we would have welcomed you."

Sahjeed waited until she stopped speaking.

"What has been done; cannot be undone. Nor can it be forgiven, we must move on. I offer you the protection of my People, I offer you the freedom to become one of us and to move and choose and live as you will."

Ulla spoke again.

"You know some of our ways, others you must learn. Each of you will be accepted into our People without obligation and you will be given help until you can live on your own, as you choose. The warriors around me, the Guards of the People, are here to protect you and guard against those who would force you; that is what they do. Each of the People give service in a way they best can to help each village live from day to day, you will become part of that."

The Medicine woman took a long time to explain Sahjeed's words; she then turned to him.

"My people, these women, have no way to understand of what you speak. They have lived in a gathering of People in which all know what each must do to live. You have said that they will be free to choose. I have no words to tell them what that will mean to them. Even I live by the rules of my People and I do not know what I would do outside what I do as Medicine Woman to my People as I was born to do. I fear they will feel lost if they are not told what they must do. Those are my words, Sahjeed Deeda; I know no others to speak." 

The Chief looked at the Medicine Woman, "Say the words you just said to me, to them."

"My Chief, I am not sure that I should, I spoke of my feelings, not theirs."

"Say the words."

Ulla gazed at the Chief with blank eyes and then turned to her People and spoke. There was unrest and quiet murmurings arose among the women.

Sahjeed waited until it was quiet again, "The words of Ulla Coodra are words of doubt and questions of how we might live together as one People." Sahjeed paused and let his words rest and resound in their minds as the Medicine Woman repeated them. "I also have questions as to how we can live together. Your men had shields against the short spears of ours. You have animals that give you food and other things of value. We have things from which you may learn, you have things that we may learn. And we will, or we might, and I can offer no more than that. My People will welcome you and your different ways, I ask that you welcome us and let us share our differences. I have spoken."

Ulla Coodra spoke long and sometimes passionately and when she went silent, the crowd before her rose and moved forward on bended knees and outstretched arms.

Sahjeed called his men forward and they matched the gestures of the high ground people. When they rose, they were one.

"Say to them, that we are now one People," said the Chief.

As the words were said, the People of the high ground and the People of Sahjeed surged together and became one.

The late summer weather remained favorable with hot days and warm nights. The 'defendable' campsite along the stream took on the appearance of a small temporary village as people gathered around dozens of mall fires and went about the chores of living day to day. 

Hunters and scouts and guards moved in and out and strange words were often heard as the women and children mingled with Sahjeed's men.

The Chief and the First Guard also underwent the ministrations of the Medicine woman; she chided them as she cleaned wounds and bound together a long slash on Duulaat's heavy thigh.

Sahjeed grunted as she cleaned a cut on his chest, "Uhh, woman, you have no mercy!"

"Even small wounds are dangerous; they must be tended quickly, Sahjeed. The warrior from the village may live, the spear thrust was not deep; the Lights were with him. I have looked again, all the injured do well."

Sahjeed stood as Ulla finished with his wound, "I would thank you again for all that you have done."

"Some boys wish to hunt; others wish to learn from your Tracker, my Chief."

"They hold no anger?" asked Sahjeed.

"They lost fathers and brothers, Sahjeed; there is great hurt and deep feelings and perhaps anger." Ulla's eyes clouded over, "They also have eyes, they see there is nothing to be done, nothing than can be done."

"Bring them before me."

"Yes, my Chief."

More than thirty young boys, ranging in age from eight to fourteen and one wiry girl of thirteen years gathered in a group away from the main camp. Alahbaand, his back heavily bandaged and his left arm tightly bound, was helped to the meeting with Duulaat, Wolf and several guards and the best hunters.

Ulla Coodra, Medicine Woman of the high ground People stood next to Sahjeed Deeda as they faced the group of young people.

"Why is the young maiden here?" asked the Chief.

"By her choice and with the blessings of her mother and other women of my People," tersely answered Ulla.

Sahjeed searched her face and looked at the young girl before he spoke, "It is not the way of my People that women do the things that men do, Ulla Coodra, I thought our ways were the same in this."

The Medicine Woman hesitated and searched for words in the new language, "My Chief, it is not easy to speak of these things, my words are not changing to your words as they should. Other women and young girls would be here also, but they fear what you may say.

"They look ahead and ask if they will find a man to hunt for them. They...they do not wish to be 'used' as a woman is used, to feed themselves and their children. They would learn to provide for themselves. I have been asked to speak of this. Those are my words."

Sahjeed did not look at his men. He closed his eyes and lowered his head, nodding slightly as he thought. The silence was uneasy; Ulla repeated her words to those of her People who did not understand.

"The difficulty you see ahead, I did not think of, Medicine Woman. It is not a small thing to change the ways of a People." Sahjeed then turned and looked into the eyes of each of his men, "The maiden may learn; the women may hunt. I have spoken."

Ulla spoke the words to her People, the young girl smiled broadly, the young men did not.

"Thank you, my Chief, not all of my People agree on this."

Sahjeed nodded, "A hunter will teach her, but she must leave at this time. You must stay to speak my words to your young men, for they must take the oath of the Guards and the Hunters of my People."

Ulla bowed and spoke to the girl; she nodded and dropped to her knees before the Chief before leaving.

A young man spoke heatedly to the Medicine Woman; she silenced him with a gesture and a glare. She turned to Sahjeed, "He says that he and the other young men would provide for his People, that women and girls should not learn the ways of men."

Sahjeed frowned and stared into the eyes of the young man who spoke, "What is he called?"

The Medicine Woman hesitated for a moment, "He is called Teeda Coodra, my Chief. He is the son of my brother who was Leader of my cave. It was he who stood above the cave when you first came. He...he, would have become Leader...he is much troubled by what has happened. Those are my words."

"I see that in his eyes," said Sahjeed. "Does he understand what might have happened?"

"He knows, my Chief, but he does not understand."

"Do not sweeten my words to him as you speak, Medicine Woman, make him understand that I mean what I say!" Sahjeed gestured to Duulaat and moved directly in front of the boy.

Ulla translated at each pause; "I will not bring trouble to my People, Teeda Coodra! Your Medicine Woman has told me of the, 'way of your People!' Had your warriors taken the village nearby, they would have killed all of the boy children so that their seed would die with them! Is it not so?"

"They would have used the women and killed those who did not please them! Is this not so?"

The boy paled and shook as Sahjeed shouted in his face and Duulaat, angry faced, held a blade, up, in his hand.

"You live and your young friends live because our ways are different. Would you have me take on your ways and kill each of you now? I can do that! I will do that, if you remain as you are! Now, leave me! All of you! I warn you, think very carefully on what you say and do next! I have spoken!"

Ulla Coodra was pale and gasping for breath as she translated the words and quickly herded the boys away; she glanced back and did not know the look she saw in the Chief's eyes.

Alahbaand, the young boy, stared at Sahjeed, "You would not take their lives?"

The Chief looked down upon the boy and did not speak.

There was a continuing uproar among the high ground People as Ulla Coodra brought the young boys back to the camp. As a group, they moved away and high-pitched screams of anger and pain cut through the warm summer afternoon.

A short time later, a naked and bleeding Teeda Coodra was dragged before the Chief's campsite and pushed to the ground in front of Sahjeed.

"They will mourn, but they will not be angry if you take his life, uh, my Chief, and the woman born of my mother, is no more. The women have spoken."

There was pain in the boy's face as he lifted his head; but neither tears nor fear showed as he looked upon the Chief.

"How say you?" Sahjeed looked at Ulla.

"He did not speak or cry out. I can not give oath that he will serve with honor."

Sahjeed did not speak as silence fell over those watching and listening.

Sahjeed turned to the motion behind him as Lobolaaht the Tracker stepped to his side, "If he will take oath, I will train him or kill him, my Chief. I have spoken."

Ulla translated the words loud enough for all to hear.

"Live or die?" asked Sahjeed.

The boy was not shy in his nakedness and did not hesitate as he rose to his knees and gave oath to Sahjeed Deeda and the People.

Ulla Coodra stayed as Wolf took the boy and the others moved away from the Chief.

"I did not know what you..."

Sahjeed interrupted her; "You should leave me to myself..."

She said quietly, "...there is more..."

Sahjeed blinked and then gestured, they sat on logs a few feet apart, facing each other.

The Medicine Woman did not meet his eyes, "The women, taken from the village of your people...they are all with child..."

Sahjeed clenched his teeth, "They were badly treated?"

"They were not beaten or starved, but...they were used...many times, by most of the men.... They do not wish to stay with my People, they would join your camp; one does not wish to live. She is very young..."

Anger coursed through Sahjeed's body in visible ways, Ulla drew back from him even though she was a distance away. When she met his eyes, she felt fear. She did not speak.

"I do not have children of my own," said Sahjeed, But I have young women in my lodge who care for my mother. Each was some ones daughter; I care for them as if they were mine. I do not understand how such treatment is possible.

"Perhaps there is merit in the way of your People to kill all when you conquer. Perhaps only then can the evil be stopped..."

Ulla Coodra gasped and her eyes widened, "It was not my choice, I was born into the..."

Sahjeed stood, "Never again speak to me of, 'the way of your People', Woman, I will not hear of it. Send the women to me, leave me now."

Ulla bowed and backed away but she did not speak.

The Chief did not speak with the kidnapped women, he directed the First Guard to prepare a place for them and assigned Guards that would be near-by day and night. The mood of all of those gathered at the campsite was somber as the day came to an end.



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 16



One day slipped into another as the autumn rains held off and bright sunshine lightened a clear blue sky and warm fragrant scents rose from ripened berries and fallen fruit. Hunting was good and a fall run of large fish moving up the small stream kept the women and the hunters busy.

Sahjeed, from habit, walked the perimeter of the camp, nodding and smiling but speaking very little. The injured men slowly healed, the Chief nodded as the First Guard and others walked with him, reporting the events of the day and the plans for the next. 

Sahjeed sat on a large fallen tree that bridged the stream running through the camp. Guards, as always, surrounded him from a distance, moving quietly in a never-ending protective circle. He looked up at the sound of a snapping twig and rose to greet Wolf, Lobolaaht the Tracker whose men had turned the battle.

They stood a few paces apart and looked into each other’s eyes.

“’The man who might have been your father’, I think you used those words, my Chief,” Wolf said, holding Sahjeed’s gaze.

Sahjeed smiled and nodded slightly, “I did, my friend. It was a thing I learned only recently. My mother holds you in high regard.”

Wolf lowered his eyes and rested on the stout staff that supported his injured leg, “I would take a small advantage as one who has known and respected your mother for so many seasons.”

“Advantage? queried Sahjeed.

Wolf raised his eyes; “I would speak as an older man would to a son who is also a man.”

Sahjeed turned his head slightly, “I would welcome your words, Lobolaaht; your advice is never lightly given.”

Lobolaaht gestured and both men sat a little apart from each other on the fallen tree trunk. Wolf held the staff upright before him and clasped it with one hand, and leaned forward and stared into the distance. “Sahjeed, in my mind, I have walked with you these past suns, trying to think as you might think, see what you see, feel what you feel.

“So very much has happened; we have lost men we have known all our lives. We fought a battle that need not have been fought, had we only known. We recover, but much sadness hangs over us as we return to our People. And still the matter of the fat Chief lies before us and the matter of the high ground People.

“I know these things are in your mind, I would listen if you would share your thoughts.”

Sahjeed let his shoulders slump and a long sigh escaped his lips as he clenched his hands together in front of him, “I have no vision of what is the right thing to do,” Sahjeed’s voice was low but firm, it was not a sound of complaint but came forth as a statement of truth.

“I must see the people of Suulumaag’s village. I do not want more lives to be lost. I do not wish to bring about more suffering by my decision. I must tell our People of the losses and that too will bring sadness to those who lost a son, a father, a brother. I do not see a ‘right’ way to do these things. Yet…they must be done.”

Sahjeed straightened and moved his shoulders, pulled them back and stretched and lifted his chin, looking up into the trees, into the darkening sky. He turned to Lobolaaht, “It is good to put words to my thoughts. I am grateful.”

Lobolaaht did not turn to look at Sahjeed; he kept his hand around the staff and continued to stare into the distance. “I often speak to myself in the stillness of the deep woods.” Lobolaaht shifted his position slightly but still did not look into the Chief’s face.

“The men are ready to follow where you lead. The injured are in no danger. Scouts have watched Suulumaag’s village, they do not search for us and they hunt in a direction away from us. 

“My Chief, I think I know much of what troubles you and it troubles me also. I do not know the answer to each of the things we must do and to look upon all at once…brings doubt into my soul.

“I will follow whatever you decide as will all the men. I would say just this: look upon one thing at a time, take one step at a time. With each step, perhaps the next will become clear. I have spoken.”

Lobolaaht turned and looked into Sahjeed’s face and saw a slight smile and glistening eyes. Both men stood, Lobolaaht moved forward, put his uninjured arm around the Chief’s back and pulled him close.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The word traveled fast early the next morning. As the low clouds and mist cleared before the sun, excited voices filled the air and the children, sensing something unusual, ran from campfire to campfire, screaming and chasing each other through the chattering women.

At first light, Sahjeed toured the campsite, beckoning some to follow him back to the clearing near the log across the stream. A cheer erupted at his words, “We leave for Suulumaag’s village at first light next sun!”

Women from the high ground People brought food and hot drinks as the chill of the morning lessened and the men made plans.

Lobolaaht drew in the sand and explained as the Chief, First Guard, the boy Alahbaand and several others looked on.

“You are well with this plan, First Guard? asked Sahjeed.

Duulaat stood stiffly, “Yes, my Chief, the men are restless. My Chief, the man from Suulumaag’s village has spoken, he begs not to be returned; he fears for his life. It is very bad for the people in the village, they live as slaves.”

Sahjeed nodded, “It is as I thought, then, yes, we must act. Alahbaand, my young friend, what of you?”

The boy faced the Chief but lowered his eyes, “My Chief, I would do as you wish, but…the medicine woman says my wound will open if I do what must be done.”

Wolf, the Tracker stepped forward, “My Chief, there may be another way.”

Sahjeed motioned for Wolf to speak.

“The boy, Teeda, of the high ground People. He learns quickly, he speaks a few of our words. He is younger than Alahbaand, and small enough to go beneath the barricade at the back of Suulumaag’s village. He also needs to give service. I would offer that he should be trusted.”

Sahjeed frowned, “I had not considered that. What say you, Alahbaand?”

“Teeda came to me, as I am the youngest of my People. He learned words from me. I do not know… I do not see evil in his eyes. I do not know if he has enough of our words to speak to the people of Suulumaag’s village.”

Sahjeed thought for a moment, “Has he enough words to bring someone close enough to speak with you? Can you get close enough without danger to your wound?”

Alahbaand nodded and smiled, “Yes, my Chief, yes! That can be done.”

“Go to the boy, and bring the medicine woman back with you.”

“Yes, my Chief,” replied Alahbaand as he moved away.

Sahjeed turned back to the small group of Guards that had put the plan together. “Does anyone have a question? We will have little time once we are moving.”

A Guard spoke, “What if our plan does not work? What if we cannot get the people out of the village? If Suulumaag’s guards do not do as we expect?”

Sahjeed’s face turned hard, “It is a good question.” The Chief turned to Lobolaaht for an instant, “It is also a question I cannot answer. But I will tell you this. If this plan does not work, we will make another and then another if necessary. We will not fail!”

“OORah!” shouted Duulaat and then the others.

Alahbaand, Teeda and Ulla Coodra approached as the cheering faded away.

“Welcome, medicine woman, we have need of your service.”

Ulla bowed and stood before Sahjeed, “I serve the People, my Chief.

Sahjeed motioned for the boy of the high ground People to step forward, “Say to him, ‘you have taken the oath of the Guards and the Hunters of the People of Sahjeed. You are called upon to give service. How say you?’”

Upon hearing the words spoken by the medicine woman, the boy fell to his knees and put both hands before him on the ground. “I serve!”

Sahjeed explained and Ulla Coodra translated, “He understands, my Chief. He wishes to say he is honored and will give his life if necessary.”

Sahjeed smiled and gestured for the boy to stand, “Let us hope that is not required. Spend this day with Alahbaand and Lobolaaht, understand what we are to do and learn as many of our words as you can.”

Ulla Coodra spoke to the boy, and then to Sahjeed, “The women are excited and happy that we are to leave. They will be ready at first light, my Chief. Is there anything more I can tell them?”

Sahjeed held her eyes; “You may tell them that we go to help the People in the village who are being treated badly. After that, I do not know. We will do one thing at a time.”

The medicine woman bowed, turned slowly and then stopped, “I can feel that you have struggled with a hard decision. Perhaps, in time, I can be of more service, should you ask, my Chief.”

Sahjeed stood silent as she walked away.

First light was bleak as guards who had been alert during the dark of the night, woke Sahjeed who slept on pine bows and was burrowed into a large furry bearskin. He blinked and cleared his eyes and looked into low clouds and a mist that could also be called a light drizzle. 

Sahjeed stood and stretched and began to role the fur as Duulaat came up to him with hot tea and a woven basket with several pieces of dried fish. ”Wolf and the two boys left in the dark, my Chief, the women will be ready to move when you wish.”

“Thank you, First Guard, anything not to your liking?” asked Sahjeed as he took a bite and then a drink.

“No, but the men are quiet this morning. It becomes real again and they feel it.”

Sahjeed finished the tea and tucked the left over bits of fish in a pouch at his waist. “Yes…I understand…and you, Duulaat?”

“Yes, my Chief, I feel it also.”

“It will pass, my friend, this is a thing we must do.”

“Yes, my Chief, I know.”



(Authors note: I wish to thank those of you who have followed this story for many months and have been kind in your remarks. There are several chapters with 8 or 9 votes that have been stuck there for several weeks. Any assistance you might give would be greatly appreciated. Thank you...amicus)



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 17



SEVENTEEN

Scouts were out all around as Sahjeed's men and the People from the high ground moved quickly and quietly along a trail marked by Lobolaaht. They made only one stop to rest and drink and still under damp misty clouds stopped again as a scout returned saying the village was in sight.

Five armed guards and the injured men stayed with the high ground People as they followed another scout that led them away from the village. The rest of Sahjeed's men moved toward the village, splitting again, an equal number going with the First Guard to place themselves on the trail to the river. The Chief and the rest of the men, all with the high ground warriors shields hung on their backs, moved to the edge of the woods adjacent the open field that fronted Suulumaag's village.

Lobolaaht appeared from the wooded brushy area as Sahjeed kept out of sight in the tree line. "It is done, Sahjeed, the boy signaled that they had made contact with the villagers. We should have some of our guards close by where they come out to help those who are slow."

"Yes, I agree, but I cannot spare many, we are fewer in numbers than I would like," said the Chief, "Stay unseen, there is a least one guard on the village barricade. Signal when you are in place and hope for the best my friend."

Sahjeed chose the same small group of men who had approached the barricaded village several days before. They left the shields of the high ground warriors behind and slowly approached the tall wooden gate. A guard pointed at the top of the barricade as a figure appeared briefly and then went out of sight.

The gate did not open but a figure stood at the top of the wall just to the right of the entrance, "Suulumaag does not wish to be disturbed, what news have you?"

"We found nothing," said Sahjeed in a loud voice, "The men from your village ran off. Did they return here?"

"Men from this village? I know nothing of that."

Sahjeed hesitated and paced back and forth and then looked up again, "We would speak with Suulumaag and the people of your village."

The man at the top of the barricade flung his hand outward in a gesture, "He will see no one and no one is to enter the village, there is sickness here."

"We have traveled far and..." Sahjeed was interrupted by the sounds of shouting inside the walls, the figure at the top disappeared as more loud sounds arose.

"They know!" said the Chief, "Back into the tall grass!"

They were still within range as a shower of arrows flew from the top of the barricade but no one was hit, "Towards the river trail!" shouted Sahjeed. He glanced back as they ran through the tall grass toward the tree line and saw the tall gate swing outward and a large group of armed men pour out.

Sahjeed paced his men, keeping just out of range but drawing the pursuers closer as they moved nearer the wooded area. They jogged down a small dip and across a shallow creek and were for the moment out of sight. Sahjeed glanced quickly to each side and slowed, waiting for the men from the village to appear.

They screamed and shouted and plunged into the shallow ravine when they caught sight of Sahjeed and his small group of men. The Chief continued on a few paces more until his men were halfway up the far side of the dip. They turned and strung their bows as Suulumaag's men surged down and across the slow moving creek.

It was quickly over as Duulaat's forces attacked from each side and Sahjeed's men turned and rushed down upon the men from the village. Sahjeed did not stop his men until the battle subsided into silence, "To the village!"

When Suulumaag's forces rushed after Sahjeed and his small band of men, the gate was left open. The men the Chief left behind swarmed through the opening and into the village. When Sahjeed and Duulaat and their combined forces arrived, there was nothing left to do, the village had fallen. Just inside the gate, the huge body of Suulumaag, the fat Chief, lay prostrate on his back, tongue grossly swollen, eyes bulging, he died without a wound being inflicted.

Surrounded by guards, Sahjeed toured the village as bodies of men and women alike were being moved outside the walls.

"The women took arms against us," said a guard to an unasked question. 

They made their way to Suulumaag's opulent living quarters and a huddle of crying women. "See to them," said Sahjeed.

First Guard Duulaat left and returned a moment later, "We lost no one my Chief! Only a few are wounded."

"Good, good," said Sahjeed, "Wolf? The boy?"

"They are bringing the people back to the village."

"Set a perimeter watch, Duulaat, rest the others but keep them alert."

Duulaat nodded and smiled, "Guards are out, my Chief."

Sahjeed smiled and offered his right arm; Duulaat grasped it and looked into the Chief's eyes. "It went well, First Guard, very well."



The Chief Pt. 02 Ch. 18



The women held captive by Suulumaag screamed and cried out as the villagers came back through the main gate into the center of the fenced in cluster of lodges and hide houses. The women and children from the high ground people stood uneasily and gathered in a group just inside the closed gate.

 Cooking fires were started as the people returned; Ulla Coodra spoke to calm her people as the confusion slowly abated and a child’s laughter was heard rising above the muted voices.

 Sahjeed sat quietly in Suulumaag’s lodge, nodding as guards came and went with information and food and drink for the Chief.

 Wolf and Alahbaand waited until Duulaat stepped out, gestured to them and to Ulla Coodra, medicine woman of the high ground people.

 The Chief greeted each one as they stepped into the room and remained standing until it was quiet again.

 “The boy, Teeda Coodra, he did well?”

 “Yes, my Chief,” said Alahbaand, “But he was anxious to join the fighting once the village people were safe.”

 Sahjeed smiled, “And you my young friend, your wound?”

 “It did not re-open, my Chief, but I am not yet ready to fight again.”

 Sahjeed smiled again; “Nor should you have to, your mate will be angry at me as it is.”

 The Chief turned to Lobolaaht, “My tracker friend, the big step has been taken, it was your advice and counsel that made it so, I am in your debt.”

 Lobolaaht bowed his head slightly, “You only needed to say the words, my Chief; the answers were in your mind.”

 Sahjeed grasped Wolf’s good arm with his own, “You are too modest, Tracker, your mind is to be as valued as your skills on the trail. I am fortunate to have found you.” Sahjeed pulled back from Lobolaaht and looked from face to face of those around him. “We must send news to our People, I would ask who and how many should go. I must speak with the People of Suulumaag’s village and we must decide about Ulla Coodra and her People. I would have your thoughts.”

 The Medicine woman of the high ground People looked from face to face and then dropped to her knees before Sahjeed, “I would speak, my Chief.”

 “What are your thoughts, Ulla Coodra?”

 “More men were killed today, my Chief. The people of this village may have reason to be bitter against my People. There is also the matter of the women taken from this village. There is the difference in how we live; we do not live inside walls of wood and only in the caves during the cold times. The women are concerned about how we shall survive, as am I, my Chief. I do not see an easy answer.” The medicine woman looked again at each person and opened her mouth to speak again but did not for a long moment. “I have spoken.”

 Sahjeed blinked as he listened and then paced back and forth before those gathered, “I, we, will think on your words Ulla Coodra. Thank you.” 

 Sahjeed turned to the men, “Who shall we send to tell our People of what has happened? They will be very anxious for news.”

 First Guard Duulaat stepped forward, “I would send one hand each of Scouts and Guards, my Chief. We would still have enough to fight and two hands can defend themselves if need be.”

 Sahjeed nodded, “Yes, pick the swiftest of foot. If they leave soon they will arrive before the darkness. They must know of each who has fallen. There will be much grief; you must speak gently to the People. We will follow at the next sun or perhaps another sun, but no later. I will send a scout if that changes.”

 Duulaat said, “Yes, my Chief,” and turned to leave, then stopped, My Chief, shall I go with the Scouts or remain with you?”

 Sahjeed blinked and did not answer for a moment, “I would have you stay, First Guard. Tell a Guard to speak to your mate and to my mother before any other.”

 “Yes, my Chief,” said Duulaat as he turned and left.

 “First Guard…” Sahjeed called out.

 Duulaat stopped and turned around, “Chief?”     “Gather the People of Suulumaag’s village in a place where I can speak to them.”

 “Yes, my Chief.” 

 “What will you say, my Chief?’ asked Ulla Coodra.

 “I do not know, Medicine woman. I think I will listen most of all. I do not know what I will hear.”

    A quiet, cowed and frightened group of women, young and old and many, many children formed a half circle in an open grassy area in the center of the village. Only a few young men, a few more middle aged and a few old, were sprinkled throughout the women and children. None looked into the eyes of Sahjeed and his guards.

 Sahjeed Deeda stood tall and looked from side to side and then again at the gathering before him, “Is there one who would speak for all?” he asked in a firm but gentle voice.

 There was movement as the people looked back and forth at each other but no one rose.

 Sahjeed waited a moment longer before he spoke again, “I am Sahjeed Deeda, Chief of my People. I was sent by the First Chief of all the People to ask of the People of the village of Suulumaag. My men and I are here to help you, to restore the freedom of the People. How can I best do that? How can we help you?”

 Again, there was a nervous shuffling about, but no one rose. Lobolaaht moved next to Sahjeed and whispered in his ear. The People shuddered and pointed at the disfigured Tracker as he hobbled his way to the Chief.

 Sahjeed nodded and turned to face the villagers again, “Suulumaag is no more, his guards are no more. Are there those among you who have committed crimes against the people? Tell me and they will be punished, you need fear them no longer!”

 The people before Sahjeed were suddenly animated and talking with each other. A large bodied man with streaks of gray in his long hair slowly rose; a woman on either side of him provided support as he stood. His face was heavily wrinkled and he grimaced as he moved forward, one faltering step at a time.

 “I am Caljaanian; I was a woodsman and a good one, now I am not a man at all. If you do not speak truth, then do with me as you will; I do not wish to live any longer. But I will speak for the People if you wish.”

 Sahjeed was stunned as the man moved clear of the crowd. His hands and feet were bound in stained bandages, every step showed pain in his face.

 “He tried to stop Suulumaag!” said the woman supporting his left side, “They chopped off his fingers and toes and left him to die. It is a wonder he lives. They killed all the younger men who would not join them.”

 Sahjeed lowered his eyes, ”I cannot tell you the anger I feel, Woodsman, nearly a full moon ago we sent two hands of men, they did not return. There is a Medicine woman, who can perhaps ease your pain, if you would permit?”

 “They would allow no medicine for my use, I would welcome your help, but, you have a Medicine woman with you?”

 Sahjeed gestured to Duulaat and with another guard they went to the man and lifted him between them, “I will explain, Woodsman, but first, let us care for your injury.”

 Sahjeed watched as they carried the man away and then turned back to the people, “Who is the Elder that would speak for the People?”

 An old man, thin and nearly bald, with a paunch, rose slowly and looked around, receiving nods from the rest, “It seems I have outlived all the rest, although I do not know how, Chief Sahjeed. Your name is well known and respected in this village. We have long hoped someone would come.”

 Sahjeed bowed slightly to the Elder, “Are there any left among you who should not be; those who have committed crimes against the People?”

 The old man shook his head slowly, “There was one, but when we were lead away from the village he tried to run, your guards told him to stop but he did not. He is no more.”

 “Elder, people from many villages have asked to know about their kin in this village, I have men from Galawaand’s village and they too wish to know.” Sahjeed looked again across the group of listening people, then motioned to Alahbaand and Teeda Coodra and spoke quietly.

 As the two boys left, Sahjeed let a small bitter smile crease his cheeks, “This has not been a good time for you; nor has it been for us, we have suffered losses also.” The Chief paused until he heard sounds of movement coming toward the waiting people. “Some good must come from even the worst of times.”     The people of Suulumaag’s village gasped and surged forward as one, when the four missing girls shyly made their way before them.    They were touched and hugged and caressed and tears and wails flowed as Sahjeed remained silent and watched.

 “We thought they were no more!” said the Elder. Other voices joined in, “They were said to be taken by a bear…” “…Wolves…” said another.

 Sahjeed waited until the faces turned toward him again, he pointed to Teeda Coodra, “This boy, who crawled beneath the barricade and protected you as you left the village; this boy…is not of our people.”

 “Then who?” asked the elder as others looked with questions on their faces.

 Sahjeed gave a brief recount of what had happened and why, then motioned to the boy. A moment later the high ground women came slowly before the villagers with children in arms and tugging on clothing from behind the mothers.

 “This is all that remains of three caves of high ground people, the others are no more.” Sahjeed spoke quietly, “They must leave their homes; they have no men left to protect them and hunt for them. The women have asked to be permitted to hunt for themselves. I have agreed. I would have the thoughts of the people of this village.”

 The people of Suulumaag’s village turned to each other and talked and pointed but could find no voice to give words to Sahjeed. The Chief paced back and forth between the groups looking from one to the other.

 “This moment has been in my mind for several suns,” said Sahjeed, “My thinking is this: the high ground women from one cave will stay here, with you. They will hunt and find food for themselves and for you. They ask to be treated as free people; they are not beholden to me or to the People.” Sahjeed paused, “I will not force this upon the people of Suulumaag, I must know your thinking.”

 Again the people turned and talked to each other, Sahjeed motioned to Ulla Coodra and she had the high ground people separate into those from each of the three caves.

 When it was finally quiet, the elder who had spoken before stood forth. He looked from face to face and then turned to Sahjeed and the people from the high ground, “Chief Sahjeed, my people are overjoyed at the return of the women we thought to be lost forever. We are grateful beyond words for the Chief and his men for setting us free. 

 “We will accept the high ground people from one cave or more if needed, we too share the pain of losing so many of our men.” The elder paused and again looked from face to face, “That women should do things that only men have done before…is a new thing and not the way of the People. But I see no other way for us to survive. The cold season is near and food supplies are low, I think it must be so that women can hunt. I have spoken.”

 Sahjeed nodded as the elder spoke; he smiled softly and turned to the Medicine Woman of the high ground people, “Do you understand the words of the elder enough to tell your people?”

 Ulla Coodra moved alongside Sahjeed, sought his eyes and then turned to the people of Suulumaag’s village, “I was the daughter of the leader of my cave and sister to another. My mother was a healer to my people, as am I. I understand our people need not have had the battle that took so many lives. I have great sorrow for my people. 

 “The ways of my people are different than yours. When a woman is left alone outside a cave, it means, to us, that she wishes to find a mate and move to a new cave. Our men did not know of your ways, they came only to trade, not to take that which was not theirs.      

 “I speak your words only because I learned from the women taken from your village. I understand that you have offered to let us stay and hunt as men do, that we may all survive the cold time. I will tell this to my people.”

 The Medicine woman of the high ground people turned toward the three separate groups and stomped her foot three times on the dusty ground. Her people stood tall and gave her full attention. She spoke to them for several minutes as all the others looked and listened in silence.

 When she stopped speaking, one after another, the three groups, one from each cave, bowed and each person held their hands out, palms up for all to see.

 Ulla Coodra looked first at Sahjeed and then faced Suulumaag’s people, “I have done something never before done by a woman in the history of my people.

 “I have talked with my people as we waited while the men of Sahjeed healed. I explained to them what choices we might have. They asked me then and confirm now, that I am to speak for them, for each cave.

 “We were all of great hope that you would forgive what has happened and permit us to join with you. We were prepared to go on without your help, if it came to that.”

 Ulla Coodra bowed deeply, “I would offer great appreciation to Sahjeed and his men. They have treated us fairly and kindly and with respect; they shared what they had and hunted for us. They could have treated us badly and left us to die. They did not.”

 She paused again and took a deep breath, “It was with great warmth that I heard your words allowing us to stay in your village. Our ways are different in many things. I hope we can learn from each other.

 “We have given oath to Chief Sahjeed Deeda and his People; we have accepted that we are now, ‘one’ with your People. We shall work hard to earn that honor, in all ways. I thank you and my people thank you for making us welcome.” The Medicine woman turned to Sahjeed, “I have spoken.”

 Sahjeed took a small step toward Suulumaag’s people, “It is spoken, do all agree?”

 The people of the freed village bowed as one and as had the high ground people, stretched both arms out, palms up, in acceptance.

 Sahjeed nodded and smiled as both peoples moved slowly and cautiously toward each other.