Wildcat's Hunger

Wildcat's Hunger by Sherry Derr-Wille Whiskey Creek Press www.whiskeycreekpress.com Copyright ©2005 by Sherry Wille ...

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Wildcat's Hunger by Sherry Derr-Wille

Whiskey Creek Press www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright ©2005 by Sherry Wille

NOTICE: This ebook is licensed to the original purchaser only. Duplication or distribution to any person via email, floppy disk, network, print out, or any other means is a violation of International copyright law and subjects the violator to severe fines and/or imprisonment. This notice overrides the Adobe Reader permissions which are erroneous. This book cannot be legally lent or given to others. This ebook is displayed using 100% recycled electrons.

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WILDCAT'S HUNGER by Sherry Derr-Wille WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com Published by WHISKEY CREEK PRESS Whiskey Creek Press PO Box 51052 Casper, WY 82605-1052 www.whiskeycreekpress.com Copyright © 2005 by Sherry Wille Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or 3


persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ISBN 1-59374-268-1 Credits: Cover Artist: Nora Baxter Editor: Jan Janssen Printed in the United States of America

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Dedication To all the men and women who raise the children of their chosen spouses without question, and with the love these children deserve, especially my daughter, Sandra.

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Chapter 1 Wildcat squirmed against the bindings that secured his wrists. As his eyes adjusted to the dim light of the lodge, he saw that his brother, Wading Bird, his sister's husband, Proud Elk, and his friend, Spotted Pony, were with him. "What do you think they will do to us?" Wildcat asked. "Do not fool yourself, brother," Wading Bird replied. "Before the sun sets this day we will all walk with the ancestors. We were fools to listen to Buffalo Calf. His loyalty to Hawk will serve no purpose but to cost us our lives." Wildcat could hear the anger that tinged his brother's words and tended to agree with him. Before they left the village, Buffalo Calf had filled their heads with thoughts of victory. They would travel the distance between Hawk's village and this one, take the Spirit Woman while she slept and return as heroes. As young men, their heads were filled with such lofty goals, and they had not asked Serpent's Wing to bless their mission. If they had, none of this would have happened. The gods would have looked upon them kindly and protected them from the evil that could, at any moment, befall them. A commotion from outside the lodge caused Wildcat to turn his attention to the door flap. As soon as he did, the early morning light that streamed into the lodge broke the darkness. With it, he easily recognized Snapping Turtle and Buffalo Calf as they too were pushed in to their prison. 6


"I do not think our lives are in immediate danger," Buffalo Calf said. Wildcat knew he was trying to put them at ease. They had known of the danger when they left on this trek. Nothing Buffalo Calf could say at this point could calm the fears that plagued each of them. "Have any of you been harmed?" Buffalo Calf asked. "Someone punched me in the jaw," Proud Elk, declared. "Had I been in his place, I might have done the same thing, if for no other reason than fear of the threat that intruders in our village could mean." The others agreed, but their words did nothing to ease Wildcat's fear over his destiny. If he were to die, he would never have the chance to court one of the maidens in the village. He certainly would not know the joy of fathering children, or earning his first eagle feather. From deep within his belly, Wildcat could hear a grumbling not unlike that of a bear awakened from his long winter sleep. The sound of it reminded him that he had eaten nothing other than jerky to ease his hunger, since leaving the village before the sun crested the eastern horizon the day before. They had traveled through the forest until Buffalo Calf assured them they were close to the village of the Spirit Woman. Only then had they made a cold camp and rested before going on under the cover of night's darkness. For Wildcat, the lack of food was almost more than he could stand. He always ate with great enthusiasm and his heavy frame attested to his appetite for good food. 7


They continued their discussion, each blaming the other for being foolish enough to accept Buffalo Calf's suggestion without question, until someone else entered the lodge. Wildcat looked up at the man who stood before them. In the dim light, the man's fierce expression was enough to cause Wildcat to tremble. His stomach threatened to rebel, but he forced down the bile, as well as the fear that accompanied it. In the eyes of his friends he had always been the one to make them laugh. In this instance, there was nothing to laugh about. Here he had to be brave. This was the man who had questioned them earlier and brought fear to each of them with his tone and manner. "I am Atiko, second son of the great shaman Clankor. Since I have questioned each of you separately and heard the same story from all of you, I must believe you." Wildcat knew his sigh of relief was an audible expression of what each of his companions were thinking. Atiko's demeanor changed as he hunkered down in front of Buffalo Calf. To Wildcat's dismay the two of them spoke in such hushed tones no one else could hear what they were saying. It came as a surprise when Atiko untied their hands before he left the dwelling. "Where is he going?" Proud Elk inquired. Wildcat watched as Buffalo Calf rubbed his wrists before answering. "The men are leaving to bring the women and children back to the village. When that is done, they will bring us food. He also said that if we tell the Spirit Woman of the reason for this raid, she might return with us to help Hawk. I do not know if I believe all of what this man says, but he is 8


respected among these people and has no need to lie to us. For now, we have no choice but to trust him until he proves himself unworthy of such trust." Around him his friends agreed. In their position they could only wait and see what these people would do. While the others talked among themselves, Wildcat concentrated on the hunger that gnawed at his belly. As far as he was concerned these people could bring him food now. In his entire life, he could never remember being this hungry. "Can you not quiet that belly of yours?" Wading Bird asked. "It is making so much noise that none of us can concentrate. If you are not careful, these people will think it is us making those sounds and assume that we are ready to attack them." Wildcat could feel the heat of embarrassment creep into his face. In all his life food had been important and his very size attested to the fact that eating was one of his top priorities. Now, not only his own brother, but also the rest of his companions were making fun of him because of it. From outside the dwelling the sound of the returning warriors and hunters silenced the teasing of Wildcat's companions. When at last someone finally came into the dwelling, it was not with platters of food, but with the news of the Spirit Woman's disappearance from their midst. The mood of the village seemed to have changed from fear over the raid to concern over her whereabouts. Finally several young women brought them food and they were allowed to go, one by one, to relieve themselves. 9


Once the comfort of relief returned to his body, Wildcat helped himself to the bounty spread before him. "You had better eat something before Wildcat finishes his portion as well as yours," Wading Bird said. Wildcat looked up to see to whom his brother was talking. He did not have to contemplate the situation long to realize it was Snapping Turtle who sat looking out the door flap as though entranced. A glance in the same direction told Wildcat his friend was more taken with the woman who brought their meal than he was with the food. Wildcat had noticed the strikingly beautiful woman, but had paid her little heed. She was an enemy, or at least, that was how she saw them. Even if he did find her attractive, she would never return any such feelings. Snapping Turtle was a fool to stare at her like a buck deer in rut. "She will one day be my wife," Snapping Turtle declared. "You are a fool," Proud Elk replied. "Do you not see her with the man by the tree? It is evident she is a promised woman. I watched her when she brought us our food. She gave you no more than a passing glance. She, like everyone else in this village, will be relieved when we are finally gone." Wildcat tended to agree with his sister's husband. They had put themselves in a bad situation. The sooner they returned to their own people, to begin the trek to the winter campground, the better it would be for all of them. Once they had all eaten their fill, they were taken outside. There they enjoyed the warmth of one of the last days before the snow would begin to fall. Above them the wild geese were coming together in order to start their flight south. Wildcat 10


had even noticed that the songbirds had long since left. In his heart, he knew they should be in their own village, preparing for the trek to the winter campgrounds. From his vantage point, Wildcat could watch the activities of their captors. Women went about their daily chores, giving the six strangers a wide berth. When they did glance in the direction of the men who had disrupted their routine, they were quick to point at them and whisper to their friends. The children were another matter. To satisfy their childish curiosity, they would venture close enough to touch the intruders before running back to their friends. The coup of touching an enemy would be something they could surely brag on throughout the cold phases of the moon. Wildcat had no problem putting himself in the same position as these young boys who formed a semi circle in front of them. When he was their age, the temptation to touch the intruders would be too great to resist. If the situation were different, he would join them in their game. As he watched the children, he thought of the boys in his own village. As a bachelor, he often sought them out in the evening and played games or helped them practice with their small bows and arrows. More than anything else, he enjoyed the hours spent with the young braves, helping them to hone their skills. The thought brought a lump of despair to his throat. If he were to lose his life in this enemy camp, he would never know the joy of being a father to many children. If that were the case, his spirit would spend the afterlife in regret. He did not want such a thing to occur. More than anything else in the 11


world, he wanted to hold his children in his arms and teach his sons the skill of hunting that had been taught to him as a young brave. To die without such things happening would not only bring disgrace upon his soul, but also upon his parents. The shadows of late afternoon brought a change in activities. As it was in his village, the women were busy at the cooking fires. The children had tired of their game and gone off in search of other adventures to occupy their minds. At last the shadows turned to darkness. Reluctantly, Wildcat and his companions went back inside the lodge where they were being held as captives. As such, they all spent a restless night. It was close to dawn when a commotion from outside woke them. Although Wildcat could not fully understand the words the men spoke, he knew their situation had suddenly changed. It was evident the men had been searching for the Spirit Woman. If they had found her she was not with them. She could easily be dead. If she was, their lives could be once again in jeopardy. "The Spirit Woman has been captured by our hunters," Snapping Turtle said, his voice so low that only those sitting close to him could hear what he was saying. "How do you know that?" Buffalo Calf asked. "I have been listening to them carefully. Their language is not so different from ours. I find I can easily understand them." "If what you say is true," Proud Elk declared, "it is possible they will ask for an exchange of her for our freedom." 12


"You are being foolish," Buffalo Calf admonished. "The only one of us who might be worthy of such a trade is Snapping Turtle. The rest of us could go to our deaths without anyone from this village caring. I tend to agree with Wading Bird, we are condemned men. It is best if we tell this Atiko of Snapping Turtle's identity. In that way they will know that we have a man among us that is of a high status. It is entirely possible that they would agree to an exchange." "I do not want my status among our people known by these men. We all know what happened to my uncle when his status became known. I have no desire to relinquish my life so easily." Wildcat agreed with his friend. The story of Sly Coyote's death at the hands of their enemies was one the storytellers repeated at almost every celebration. The man was far more famous in death than he had ever been in life. The very thought of Snapping Turtle gaining the same fame was unthinkable. Wildcat would rather give up his own life than to see the same thing happen to his best friend. By mid-day Snapping Turtle's prediction had been confirmed. The Spirit Woman was, indeed, Hawk's captive. Wildcat could feel the anger that seemed to be building against them. Men looked at them as though they had suddenly become a hated enemy, women refused to look in their direction, and the children cowered in fear and ran in the opposite direction as though they had become monsters. "In the morning we will leave for your village," Atiko announced while they ate their evening meal. "Once we are there we will make council with your chief. Since he 13


undoubtedly has the Spirit Woman as his captive, we will talk of exchanging the six of you for her safe return." "Six for one hardly seems right," Wading Bird said once Buffalo Calf agreed to Atiko's terms and the man left them alone. "This is but a woman we are speaking of. Even a Spirit Woman cannot be worth six proven hunters and warriors." "I never said it was right," Buffalo Calk retorted. "It does not have to be right. It only had to gain us our freedom and get us back to our families." Wildcat nodded his agreement. He knew the past few days had been hard on Buffalo Calf, Proud Elk and Wading Bird. They all had wives and children. For Snapping Turtle, Spotted Pony and himself, it was different. They had no families who were dependent upon them. Spotted Pony's parents, like his own, would grieve his loss if he were not to return. Only Snapping Turtle's loss would be an excuse for Hawk to retaliate against these people. Buffalo Calf's plan would be the best for all of them. **** By mid morning they set off to meet with Hawk and the people they had left behind. Wildcat could feel a difference in the attitude of his friends. Days earlier, they had been filled with excitement over the raid. Now, they were returning as captives. To add to the humiliation, the warriors with whom they traveled outnumbered them two to one. His companions set a brisk pace, forcing Wildcat into a fast trot in order to keep up. It wasn't like he couldn't withstand such a pace, but he did prefer traveling more leisurely, as 14


they did on the trek to the winter campgrounds. Being heavier than most of his companions put him at a disadvantage under conditions like these. When the shadows of evening overtook them, they finally stopped for the night. There was much grumbling among the warriors who accompanied them as guards. Buffalo Calf patiently explained about the distance they had traveled to reach the village, and how they had begun before the sun crested the eastern horizon and continued until well past darkness. Although their captors were unhappy about it, they agreed it was best if they were to make camp and begin their journey when the sun was again showing its face in the heavens. Wildcat wished he had a warm blanket to ward off the chill of the night air. He did not like this changing weather. It was no wonder he preferred to spend the winters far to the south where the temperatures were more to his liking. In an attempt to forget his discomfort, he fell into a troubled sleep. It was one that was filled with dreams that predicted disaster. After an uncomfortable night, they again headed east. A feeling of dread nibbled at the edges of Wildcat's mind. Something was wrong in the village. Had his dreams not predicted something dire happening? Would he find the Spirit Woman had turned her powers against Hawk? Were all of the stories about her helping people only misguided gossip? Ahead of them, Wildcat saw the grove of trees that bordered the village on the west. He glanced at his companions and knew they, too, were apprehensive. 15


With each step through the woods the fear grew in Wildcat's mind. By now he should be able to smell the smoke of the cooking fires, but he could detect no roasting meat or simmering stew. "Are you certain this is where your village stood?" Atiko demanded of Buffalo Calf. "We are too late. The people have left for the winter campgrounds without us," Buffalo Calf replied. By the tone of Buffalo Calf's voice, Wildcat knew their situation was hopeless. Even so, he studied the expressions on the faces of his friends. He knew Wading Bird and Proud Elk were concerned about their families making the trek without their protection. Of course Hawk would see to their welfare, but it wasn't the same as doing so themselves. Anything could happen to them. They could be attacked by wild animals or be caught in a storm. Without the protection of the men they called husband and father would they be able to take care of themselves, or would they be lost to the people forever? The very thought of any such thing happening made Wildcat's stomach roil with uncertainty. He could almost hear his sister, as well as the wife of his brother, wailing in sorrow over their loss. He could even feel his mother's grief over the loss of two sons and one that she considered a son. How would they ever survive without the men in their lives? "I have suggested that the five of you stay in place of Atiko, in order to show these people that we know Hawk will return Atiko to them unharmed," Buffalo Calf announced. "You did what?" Proud Elk demanded. 16


"You heard me, I suggested five for one." "Who will provide for our families?" Wading Bird protested. "Who will protect them? You will be with your wife and children, but you expect us to spend the winter with our enemies?" Wildcat ached for his brother, as well as his sister's husband. To them their families were far more important than life itself. To be so far away from them for an entire winter would be a hardship. It would be different for Snapping Turtle, Spotted Pony and himself. They had no family dependent upon them. Although not desirable, staying could be viewed as an adventure. From the corner of his eye, Wildcat saw Atiko returning to their midst. The look on his face was a mixture of frustration and relief. "My men say they will keep one for one." "Which one?" Proud Elk asked. "We have families to consider." "We will draw lots," Buffalo Calf suggested. Wildcat could hear the frustration in the older man's voice at the way Proud Elk was challenging his position of leadership among them. Buffalo Calf, not Proud Elk, was the leader of not only the hunters but also the warriors. He was the one in charge. Proud Elk had neither the status nor the position within the village to make such a challenge. "Is there one among you who is not married?" Atiko asked. "There are three," Buffalo Calf replied. "Then let the draw be among them only. I want no hardships imposed upon men with families." 17


Wildcat's heart beat wildly at Atiko's suggestion. When he was one of five his chances of drawing the short stick had been slim. As one of three they had suddenly increased. Each of the three friends reached out their hands and drew, at the same time, from the sticks Buffalo Calf offered. Spotted Pony's audible sigh of relief told Wildcat that his chances of staying had just increased. "I am the one to stay," Snapping Turtle declared before Wildcat even dared to look at his stick. "Hawk will not be at all understanding," Buffalo Calf lamented. Wildcat wondered if Buffalo Calf would make them do the draw again to spare Snapping Turtle the hardship of becoming a hostage. "The draw was fair," Snapping Turtle said. "Had I not pulled the short stick, I still would have insisted on being the one to stay." "But why?" Atiko asked. "Because I see it as my duty." Wildcat admired his friend. "Will you tell them of your status among our people?" he whispered. "It is not my intention, but I will not lie. Perhaps I can win the heart of the young woman who has captured mine so completely if I am truthful." "Do nothing foolish, my friend. It will be a long winter without you." Each man in turn told Snapping Turtle the same thing before they turned south to follow the trail of bent and trampled grass left by the people under Hawk's leadership. 18


"Hawk is not going to be happy about this," Buffalo Calf confided to Proud Elk. If Wildcat had not been close enough to overhear their conversation, he would not have known of Buffalo Calf's continued concerns. Through the day Wildcat thought about the comment that had not been meant for his ears. By using his position, Hawk could easily make their lives miserable for the entire winter. If Snapping Turtle did not return to their village in the spring they could all lose their lives. Hawk was a good man, but he had a blind spot when it came to Snapping Turtle. He set great store in the wisdom of his younger brother. It would have been much better if either himself or Spotted Pony had drawn the short stick. **** Excitement started to build as soon as the smoke from the encampment by the mounds was visible. Wildcat could smell the river that ran wild and free just beyond the gathering of the bands. When they reached the outer fringes the enthusiastic cheers of friends from other bands greeted them. They were viewed as heroes returning from the dead. It was evident they had been mourned and consider to be walking with the ancestors when they did not return from the raid. As they moved closer to the familiar lodges of their village, more and more people gathered around them. In the distance, Wildcat saw Hawk hurrying toward them. The expression on his chief's face was one of joy at the prospect of once again seeing his beloved brother. 19


The closer Hawk came to them, the more people stepped aside to give him access to the newcomers. When at last Hawk stood toe to toe with Buffalo Calf, Wildcat watched the joy drain from his face as anger clouded his eyes. "Where is he?" Hawk demanded. "Where is Snapping Turtle?" Both Buffalo Calf and Atiko tried to explain what had happened, but the words only succeeded in causing Atiko to become Hawk's captive. Wildcat wanted to melt into the crowd, to find the security of his parents' hearth. Instead, people pressed closer and closer in order to hear every word Hawk spoke, making Wildcat's escape impossible. "You are his best friend," Hawk accused, turning his anger toward Wildcat. "How could you allow this to happen?" Wildcat tried to speak, but the words threatened to strangle him. "Answer me!" Hawk stood so close, Wildcat could feel the heat of his breath. "The draw was fair," Wildcat finally managed to say. "Any of us could have drawn the short stick." "Then how do you explain the fact that my brother was the one to draw it?" "It was the will of the gods." Everyone turned at the sound of Serpent's Wing's voice. As they watched, the old shaman pushed his way through the crowd to stand at Hawk's side. "You should know the boy well enough to know he would have insisted on staying behind, even if he had not lost the 20


draw. He would have felt it his duty. You and your father have raised him well. He will bring you no shame." "I care not about shame," Hawk shouted. "My brother's life is at stake. If any harm befalls him, the captive and the Spirit Woman will forfeit their lives." The harshness of Hawk's words shocked Wildcat and yet they were not unexpected. Six men had left on this fool's mission and only five had returned. No matter who had stayed behind, the loss would be felt. Because Snapping Turtle was Hawk's brother, the loss was far worse. At least Serpent's Wing had been able to quench the fire of Hawk's anger. Even so, it was evident that Buffalo Calf had fallen from Hawk's favor over the events surrounding the illfated raid. It was going to be a long winter. None of them would be in Hawk's good graces until Snapping Turtle returned to the village when they reached the summer campgrounds. As soon as it was possible to slip away unnoticed, Wildcat made his way to his parents' dwelling. By the time he arrived, his brother and Proud Elk were already being welcomed back into the family circle. The wives and children were clamoring for their attention, begging them to tell the story of what had happened while they had been gone. Wildcat allowed the others to tell the story. For once he was content to be forgotten by his family. It was good not to be the center of attention as he had been with Hawk. All he wanted was to partake of his mother's cooking and to rest. The days he had been gone had been hard on him. He simply wanted to be left alone to contemplate what had just occurred 21


in his life.

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Chapter 2 Mourning Dove cringed at the far edge of the teepee. Beside her, the children cowered in fear. From outside the sound of the battle brought to mind the beating she would receive when Fighting Beaver returned to their lodge. She wished they had never come to this village of terror. When Fighting Beaver had been banished from their village among the twelve bands, they had wandered for many phases of the moons. At last, they had met up with several other families who had banded together for the same reasons. For six winters they had lived together peacefully, before Blanto, Pikar and Tak, the shaman, had joined them. It was under their leadership that Fighting Beaver and the others learned the practice of beating their wives and children. Many were the nights that Mourning Dove had cried herself to sleep all the while wishing Fighting Beaver were dead. She could not help but wonder if this battle would make her wishes come true. If it did, how could she and her children survive? It was well known that a woman needed the protection of her husband in order to live. If Fighting Beaver were indeed killed, would she be forced into a union as a second wife? If that happened, it would be so only for the sake of her children. She wanted nothing to do with another man in her life. 23


If only Pikar had not been obsessed with the strange woman that Fighting Beaver and the others brought to the village just before nightfall, none of this would have happened. It was evident their attackers had come in search of her. The screams of men in pain, and perhaps dying, assaulted her ears, making her wish she could find a way to block them out completely. Out of fear and frustration, the only thing she could do was to hold her children close to her and pray that they would not be harmed. As quickly as the fighting began, silence again reigned. Worse than the sounds of battle was the apprehension of the unknown. "Do you think Father was victorious?" Winter Moon, her six-year-old son, asked. "I do not know." "If he is victorious, perhaps he will not beat us." In the dim light of the lodge, she could see the bruises on Winter Moon's face, as well as one that had swollen Little Butterfly's eye shut. Mourning Dove's own bruises were just as obvious. Someone uttered a victory cry, shattering the stillness. The voice was unfamiliar, causing Mourning Dove to be more fearful than ever. Would their victors demand the lives of her children? Would they expect her to accommodate them sexually before they took her life? Her heart pounded with fear and she trembled. I must stay strong for my children. I cannot allow my fear to transfer to them. 24


The light of early morning filled her teepee as a man entered. Even with the sun to his back she could see that his body was stained with blood. "We will not harm you," the man said, using the language of the new leaders. She was thankful she had been able to learn the new language that even Fighting Beaver and the others had struggled to master. At least she could understand what this man was saying to her. Behind her, Mourning Dove felt Little Butterfly's face buried against the skirt of her dress. The child began to wail in fear. In front of her, Winter Moon stood in a defensive stance. The man knelt beside Winter Moon. "You are indeed a courageous young brave. It is admirable for you to want to protect your mother and sister. Your bravery will be sung of around our fire this night." "My husband?" Mourning Dove finally managed to ask. "The men of your village fought with honor, and died in the attempt." "My father is dead?" Winter Moon questioned. "It does not please me to be the one to tell you such a thing, but yes, he is dead, as are all of the others." As was fitting for a young brave, Winter Moon stood motionless, with no sign of emotion showing in either his demeanor or his face. "I surrender for myself, my mother and my sister." He held out his hands as though expecting the bondage that would lead to certain slavery. The man reached out his hand to touch Winter Moon's shoulder. Even his light touch made the boy cringe in pain. 25


Mourning Dove knew it was because of the bruises that covered most of her son's upper body, not fear of the man who stood in front of him. "I come not to enslave, only to rescue the woman that your men took from our village. Their deaths are unfortunate, but in such a battle a fight to the death is the only honorable outcome." "What will you do with us?" Mourning Dove finally managed to ask. Even if she did not want to hear the answer to her question, it was one that must be voiced. "Because you are women and children, it is our duty to protect you. We will not enslave you." Tentatively, Mourning Dove took a step toward the door. Winter Moon followed her lead, while Little Butterfly clung to her legs, as though still in fear of the man who had entered their lodge. As soon as Mourning Dove stepped outside, the smell of death mingled with the scene before her and caused her stomach to threaten to rebel. Fighting Beaver lay with lifeless eyes staring into the heavens, a gaping wound in his chest. Along with him lay the rest of the men from the village, including the new leaders Blanto and Pikar. The only man missing was the shaman. If he still lived, none of them would be safe. Although all of the men her husband had allied himself with frightened her, the shaman left her terrified. "What will happen to us?" one of the young women asked. "These men are from my village," Darma assured her. She was the wife of the new man, Blanto. "They will do you no harm." 26


"Your husband and his brother were of your people, and yet they led our men to their deaths. How can we be sure these men do not have a worse fate in mind for us?" Another women spoke up. "I know these men. They are not like Blanto and Pikar. They mean us no harm. They are concerned for the welfare of my friend, Makisa, the woman who was brought as a captive earlier. I know you are all frightened, but I need your assistance. My brother, Fradar, and Makisa's husband, Snapping Turtle, are badly injured and need our help." The name Snapping Turtle resonated in Mourning Dove's mind. Although he was younger than her, she remembered him well from the yearly gathering of the twelve bands at the winter campgrounds. Even when he had been but a young child his wisdom and bravery were evident. She knew he would not remember her, but she remembered him—as well as his friends—fondly. "I will offer my help," Mourning Dove said as she stepped forward. She knew her offer would be met with objections from the other women. She was not well respected in their ranks. "You?" several of the women questioned in unison. Mourning Dove knew why they were so surprised by her offer. Since coming to this village, Fighting Beaver had forbidden her to socialize with the other women. He told her they were far superior to everyone else in the village, as he was the cousin of their chief, Kicking Bear, and she was the granddaughter of the shaman, Black Cloud. It mattered not 27


that Kicking Bear had been the one to banish him from their village. They were still related. She remembered how happy she felt when Fighting Beaver first paid court to her. It was not until after they were married that he showed his true colors. Although he never hit her before Blanto and Pikar came to this village and encouraged such behavior, he found other ways to inflict pain upon her. The other women continued to whisper about her offer of help, but she ignored them. Instead, she followed Darma into the teepee where the wounded men lay. She shuddered when she realized the lodge belonged to the shaman, Tak, but her decision had been made and there was no turning back. Snapping Turtle's face was ashen. It was evident that the blood flowing from his body was draining his very life away. Beside him, a very young woman, the captive the men had brought to the village, washed the blood from his skin and assessed the wound. "What can I do to help you?" Mourning Dove asked tentatively. "Bring me your sewing utensils." Although the woman's request was strange, Mourning Dove hurried to honor her wishes. She had been the one to offer her help and she would not back away, no matter what the woman asked her to do. "I knew she would not stay long," Mourning Dove heard one of the women say. "What is wrong? Are you too good to help, even though you offered your assistance only moments ago?" 28


Mourning Dove did not answer. Instead she hurried to her own lodge to retrieve her sewing kit. "Are you planning to sit sewing a shroud for your husband while Darma cares for her injured brother?" "Perhaps you should be mourning your dead rather than concerning yourselves with Darma and the woman our men captured yesterday." Mourning Dove knew her words sounded biting, but she did not care. She too had questioned why the woman wanted a sewing kit but she had enough integrity not to verbalize her thoughts. "Place the needles in the fire," the woman called Makisa instructed without looking up. "What is she going to do?" Mourning Dove asked of Darma. "She is going to sew shut the wounds of these men." Darma's explanation seemed too fantastic to be true. "I have never heard of such a thing." "I had not heard of this either, but when Atiko, the second son of our shaman, found the Spirit Woman by Spirit Lake, she told us of many things that were unbelievable. It is part of the reason Blanto was banished from our people." "But I have never seen anyone heat needles." "Do not question her motives. Makisa studied with the Spirit Woman and learned many of her secrets. Carefully, Mourning Dove pulled the needles from the fire and handed them to Makisa. She then watched in awe as the young woman threaded the needle and began to sew shut the rents in the bodies of the two men. Where the woman got her strength, Mourning Dove did not know, but she did not waver until the last stitch had been 29


made. Only then did her body give into the exhaustion she must be feeling. Mourning Dove was quick to steady her when she started to slump to the floor. Once Mourning Dove helped Makisa to lie down, she realized the girl was carrying a child. The strain of the past days could not be good for her. Mourning Dove could not help but think of the child that had only just made its presence known within her body, when Fighting Beaver beat her so severely that the child was dislodged and was no more. For the second time this day she contemplated the loss of Fighting Beaver. Without his protection what would become of her and the children? Would these men enslave them? Would she be forced into the role of a second wife to a man she did not know or love? The questions without answers had run through her mind over and over again since the fighting began. She wondered if they would ever be answered to her satisfaction or if she would have to endure a life of further pain and suffering. Tears of anger ran down her cheeks. No one would fault her for mourning Fighting Beaver. He was her husband and the father of her children. From outside the lodge, the silence and nervous giggles of the initial shock had been replaced by the wailing of new widows and fatherless children. Someone touched Mourning Dove's arm and she looked up to see Darma standing next to her. "Our men have been prepared for burial. Your children are waiting for you to accompany them to the burial grounds." Mourning Dove got to her feet and wiped the last of the tears from her eyes. Even though she had ceased to love or 30


respect her husband, he had been part of her life since her fifteenth winter. His death would leave a void. Her children would grow up without his protection and guidance. Winter Moon and Little Butterfly ran to her side as soon as she stepped into the bright midday sunlight. How could time have passed so quickly without her realizing it? Once all of the women and children were assembled, they followed the warriors who had defeated their men to where the burials were to take place. The sight of the bodies of their husbands and friends waiting for burial in the mass grave was sobering. Soft sobs of mourning changed to loud cries of anguish. Children cried for their fathers, wives for the husbands lost to them forever. "These men have given their lives in defense of their wives, children and village," the apparent leader of the group declared. "Their fight was valiant. May the ancestors welcome them with open arms." Mourning Dove watched as each man was given his weapon. Before the burial shroud was closed, the children were allowed to observe their fathers for the last time. "What will happen to us?" Twin Fawn asked. Everyone turned to look at the youngest woman in their midst. She had dared to ask the question that each woman longed to have answered but hesitated to ask. The leader of the warriors stepped forward to address them. "I am Kikon, mentor of Snapping Turtle and sworn protector of Makisa. I give you my word that you and your children will be provided for among our people. When the winter has passed, you will be free to return to your own 31


people or to remain with us. If any of you desire to take a husband from our men, you will be welcomed as a member of our village. If you decide to stay without the benefit of marriage, you will be able to remain, as long as you prove your worth to our people." Mourning Dove looked around at the other women. Were they thinking the same thing as she? Since Fighting Beaver had been banished and she went with him, her people considered her dead. Returning to them was not an option. Although she needed a man in her life, she did not want one. She had raised her children without Fighting Beaver's help and encouragement in the past and she could continue to do so in the future. The biggest problem she could foresee was how she could be productive and provide for her children. Her skills were those all the women possessed. She could cook and sew, as well as tan hides for use in making clothing. The only thing she knew that was not shared by the others was her ability to mix plants and herbs to make healing teas and medicines. Her mother had been the daughter of her village's shaman and as such had passed the knowledge of healing potions on to Mourning Dove. With such skills, she might be able to barter her teas and medicines for meat and protection for herself and her children. She prayed it would be enough to earn a place of honor among the people who had just defeated them. If it was not, she would be forced to marry someone she did not love, for returning to her village and people was out of the question. 32


Fighting Beaver's banishment had extended to her and the children. They would never be welcomed within Kicking Bear's village, even though she was the granddaughter of Black Cloud, the shaman of her people.

33


Chapter 3 The time at the winter campground had been hard for Wildcat. Although Hawk had softened toward Buffalo Calf, Wildcat and the others from the ill-fated raid had felt alienated by their chief. Wildcat knew that Buffalo Calf and Hawk had been friends for far too long for Hawk to continue to be angry with him. As for the rest of them, they were not included within Hawk's circle of friends. Wildcat prayed things would return to normal once they returned to the summer campgrounds and Snapping Turtle once again was in their midst. Wildcat had been Snapping Turtle's friend. Being younger than Hawk, he was someone to be tolerated. Since returning from the raid, Hawk had turned cold. When others were praised for their abilities as hunters, Wildcat, Spotted Pony, Wading Bird and Proud Elk were passed over. Wildcat knew nothing would ever be the same as it once was until Snapping Turtle was returned to his brother. As for the women he'd planned to court, both he and Spotted Pony found their attentions spurned. Only those they did not care about sought them out. He certainly could not understand why Hawk and the others were punishing them for Snapping Turtle's decision. "I am glad to be heading north for the summer," Wildcat confided to Spotted Pony. "I know exactly what you are saying. Hawk's mood has become no better than when we first joined him. Do you think 34


it has something to do with the Spirit Woman? I thought for certain he would have married her by now." "That is something I do not understand. It is evident to everyone that he desires her, but every time the wedding is set, he postpones it." "I think he fears the wrath of her god. Do you not remember what happened once we crossed the great river? It is a miracle Hawk was not killed when his horse stumbled. Perhaps her god is punishing him for keeping her as a captive." Wildcat nodded. He remembered well the accident that left Hawk immobilized for several days. He also remembered the Spirit Woman working herself to exhaustion while monitoring his care. "The mounds are in sight!" a rider called as he galloped past the line of people. Wildcat breathed a sigh of relief. The sighting of the mounds meant they were half way back to the summer campgrounds. Soon Snapping Turtle would be reunited with Hawk and life would return to normal. By night they were camped at the edge of the sacred mounds. This would be a time for celebration and preparation for the remainder of the trip home. The people they had spent the winter with would split off in many different directions. Friendships that had been rekindled over the long winter would not be renewed until the leaves turned color in the fall. Overhead, the sky suddenly darkened as a flock of geese flew north, as though pointing the way for them to follow. 35


Their loud honking was like a symbol of the approaching summer. As the sun set behind the mounds, Wildcat saw Hawk and Atiko coming toward him and Spotted Pony. He had every intention of turning away from his chief to avoid the coldness he had felt all winter. Before he could, Hawk hailed him. "Wildcat, Spotted Pony, I want to talk to both of you." Wildcat cringed inwardly, but refused to let anyone else see his weakness. It would do him no good to show his reluctance to have Hawk engage him in conversation. "Is there something we can do for you Hawk?" Spotted Pony asked. He nodded before turning his cold gaze on Wildcat. "And you, Wildcat, are you willing to help me if I require you to?" "You know I am Hawk," Wildcat replied. "Have I not always been ready to do as you say?" As soon as the words passed his lips, Wildcat regretted them. The expression on Hawk's face told him his chief still held him responsible for Snapping Turtle spending the winter with Atiko's people. "I want the two of you to ride to Atiko's village and advise them of my conditions for the exchange of Atiko for Snapping Turtle." The memory of their captivity within the confines of Atiko's village made Wildcat's stomach churn. He did not want to again be held captive. The very thought of returning brought to mind the dwelling where they were held prisoner. "Do you think that is a wise move?" Spotted Pony asked. "I fear we will not be welcomed there." 36


"When you arrive in my village, tell those who greet you that Atiko, the second son of the great shaman, Clankor, has given his word that you will be unharmed. My word will grant you safe passage, as well as the status of honored guests among my people." Atiko's proclamation of safety was reassuring, but Wildcat could not help but wonder if it would be enough. "It will be an honor to bring Hawk's greeting to Atiko's people," Spotted Pony said. Wildcat continued to wonder if the words Spotted Pony spoke burned as badly on his friend's tongue as they would have on his own. By the time Hawk and Atiko left them to contemplate the journey they would begin when the sun again crested the eastern horizon, and the new moon had risen to its position in the heavens. "Have you lost your mind?" Wildcat questioned when they were at last alone. "Do you think we can ride into Atiko's village without fear for our lives?" "His people are as anxious for his safe return as Hawk is to again have Snapping Turtle in our midst. Our safety will be assured. It will be good to see Snapping Turtle again, to say nothing of the beautiful women of Atiko's village." Wildcat nodded. How could he not remember those women? Spotted Pony had talked of little else all winter. In his dreams Wildcat had seen the maiden who had stolen Snapping Turtle's heart. During their confinement he had seen many more of the maidens. He had to agree with Spotted Pony that the girls were indeed beautiful. After this 37


past winter, he wondered if they would be attracted to him. If the women of his own village spurned him, it was entirely possible that these foreign women would do the same thing. **** At Hawk's insistence, Wildcat and Spotted Pony left before the sun peeked its head over the horizon the next morning. Along with their own mounts, a lead rope was tied to Snapping Turtle's stallion, Wind Racer. Unlike the slow pace set by the people, they were able to cover a much greater distance each day. It was good to be free of the restraints of such slow travel. At times they rode at a gallop and then slowed to a trot when the horses seemed to be tiring. Wildcat knew that even the horses enjoyed being able to run. "We are not far from the village," Wildcat pointed out as they passed a unique rock formation. "Atiko told me when we see this rock we are close to his village. If I am right, there is a stream behind those rocks, with a grove of trees where we can camp for the night." "Why not continue on? If we are so close we could—" "We could lose our lives," Wildcat reminded Spotted Pony. "Can you imagine what would happen if a stranger came into our village at night?" Spotted Pony nodded. When they had approached the sleeping village on the morning of their capture, the guards had not stopped them. Instead the people had been forewarned and they were captured. Now the guards would be on the alert. To go in at night would be foolish. 38


As soon as they rounded the rock formation, they heard the rushing water of the stream before them. It took only moments for them to dismount and picket their horses. With that done, Spotted Pony started a fire to ward off the chill of the early spring evening. "I will be glad to finally get to that village," Wildcat declared as they pulled pemmican from their pouches. The thought of another cold meal made his stomach growl in protest. "As I recall, their women were good cooks." "All women are good cooks. If you do not stop talking about food you will have me hungrier than you are. Am I wrong, or do you think of nothing other than food?" "I have other thoughts than food, but when I am this hungry, food is the most important thing on my mind." Wildcat chewed thoughtfully on the dried meat and berries that made up the pemmican they had brought with them. It had been a long journey, and since the end would soon be in sight he had much to think about. What they would find when they finally arrived at their destination would be anyone's guess. "Do you think Snapping Turtle is still alive?" Spotted Pony's question mirrored Wildcat's dark thoughts. He contemplated his answer for a moment before commenting. "That sly fox has more than likely become their chief by now. You know how he can be. I can tell you, he could talk his way out of anything. Have you not heard him argue with Hawk over the slightest of things? He never loses. That is why Hawk has been in such a dark mood since we joined our people at the mounds of the ancients." Wildcat 39


hoped his words sounded more convincing to Spotted Pony than they did to him. He no more than spoke the words than the hair on the back of his neck stood up. He had the feeling that someone was watching them. Before he could reach for his knife, Spotted Pony was on his feet. In the light of the full moon, Wildcat could see his friend's look of apprehension turn to a broad smile. "Snapping Turtle!" Spotted Pony exclaimed. With Spotted Pony's recognition, Wildcat quickly got to his feet and grasped his best friend's forearm in greeting. "My friends, it is the will of the gods that have reunited us before the return of our people. There is a great celebration in the village. You must come with me and eat your fill." The words 'celebration' and 'eat' made Wildcat's mouth water in anticipation. "Food? Real Food? Does this mean you have become a great leader among these people?" As soon as Wildcat uttered the questions he knew they sounded foolish. The comment about Snapping Turtle becoming a great leader had been made in jest. Everyone knew that a captive did not become a leader within the span of one winter. "There will be time to learn all of what has happened to me since we last parted company. For now, it is best if we return to the village before our warriors come to attack you for capturing me. It is best if you walk your horses back, since I brought no mount with me." From their picket, the horses nickered, reminding Wildcat of the stallion they had brought with them. "It would be a disgrace if you were to walk when you could ride. At Hawk's 40


insistence, we brought Wind Racer with us. Since it would have been a shame for such a steed to become fat and lazy, Hawk has taken him out for a ride every day." In the moonlight, Snapping Turtle's eyes sparkled with delight. Wildcat knew Snapping Turtle loved this horse. Why shouldn't he? He had raised Wind Racer from a colt and treated him better than most men treated their children. "How is it you are here?" Snapping Turtle asked when Wildcat returned with Wind Racer. Before answering, Wildcat glanced at the campfire. He wanted to be certain Spotted Pony had doused it properly to ensure that no live embers were left to ignite the prairie into flames. "Hawk sent us ahead to set up the exchange of you for Atkio. It will be good to have you once again with the people." "I am afraid I know why you say this. I stood in the shadows listening to you for a while before I made my presence known. I heard you say that Hawk has been in a dark mood." "Did you expect anything different when you did not return with us?" Spotted Pony asked. "I thought my staying would upset him, but I never expected..." "You never expected what?" Wildcat questioned. "This winter has been a tense one for all of us. Of course as you say there will be much time for us to talk of such things." How will I tell Snapping Turtle that his brother has changed so completely? What will these people do when they find that 41


Atiko and the Spirit Woman have had the restraints of a captive put upon them? As though Snapping Turtle was paying very little attention to what Wildcat was saying, he swung onto Wind Racer's back. Wildcat and Spotted Pony both mounted their horses and prepared to ride to the village with Snapping Turtle. They rode only a short distance before Snapping Turtle kicked Wind Racer in the sides and took off at a gallop. Wildcat knew better than to try to race with his friend. It was well known that Wind Racer was well named. Not a horse in the herd could run faster. By the time they caught up with Snapping Turtle they were in the midst of several mounted warriors. Snapping Turtle was engaged in conversation with two of the men. Even though Atiko had taught them to speak his language, the men spoke too quickly for Wildcat to catch all of the words. "What are they saying?" Wildcat asked when Snapping Turtle turned back toward them. "They are afraid you had come to harm me and the people. I assured them you are harmless, that is of course unless I don't feed you soon." Snapping Turtle's reply embarrassed Wildcat. "That is not what you told them." "Have I ever lied to you in the past?" Wildcat shook his head. "I just did not think you would ever tell a stranger such a thing." "Frader is my friend and Kikon was my mentor on the day of my joining with Makisa." 42


At the mention of the woman named Makisa, Wildcat could see the beautiful woman who had captured his friend's heart. "Your joining?" Spotted Pony questioned. "That is something else we must talk about." Wildcat knew what the talk would consist of. Snapping Turtle had taken a wife from among these strangers. The consequences of such an action could be devastating to the people of their village. "Are you planning to bring this woman to our village and break the hearts of every maiden who loves you?" The smile on Snapping Turtle's face said volumes. This Makisa had cast a spell on their friend. The story he had to tell would be long and complicated. It was a certainty that the events of the past winter would be like the ripples of a rock thrown into a lake. They would continue to expand until they touched the lives of everyone they knew and loved. Wildcat could not help but wonder how the story of Snapping Turtle's winter with these people would affect Hawk. No matter what the story, the end result was the same. Snapping Turtle had taken a wife from outside the twelve bands. Tradition had been broken. As soon as the thought crossed his mind another joined it. Hawk was indeed breaking with tradition in taking the Spirit Woman as his wife. Could he fault Snapping Turtle for doing what he himself intended to do? Snapping Turtle caused Wind Racer to rear back on his hind legs before setting a fast pace toward the village. Not to be left behind, Wildcat dug his heels into the sides of his horse and followed his friend. 43


Had it not been for the full moon bathing the landscape with light, Wildcat knew he could have easily lost sight of Snapping Turtle in the darkness. Instead, he watched in awe as man and horse became one as they galloped across the prairie. Even before they reached the village they could hear the beat of the drums combined with the voices of the singers. The aroma of roasting meat hung heavy in the night air, making Wildcat's mouth water in anticipation. Although the scents and sounds of a celebration permeated the night, Wildcat could see no fire. "Where are all of the people?" Spotted Pony asked once Snapping Turtle dismounted. "In the moons of snow and cold these people celebrate within the confines of the council lodge. This being the full moon, we celebrate the Ceremony of the Maidens. There are several young women who are celebrating their new status, and looking for husbands. For everyone else there is music, dancing and a great feast." "Feast?" Wildcat questioned. "The hunters and I have been very successful. In addition to rabbit and squirrel, we have brought down two stag deer. The bounty we have found this winter, I am told, surpasses that of any winter in memory. Some say it is because I carry Atiko's bow, and it carries the shaman's blessing." Wildcat marveled at the irony of Snapping Turtle's statement. Through the winter Atiko had carried Snapping Turtle's bow and had shown their hunters many of the secrets his people utilized while hunting. Could it be that the gods 44


blessed both men? Snapping Turtle's skill as a hunter surpassed that of anyone else in the village and so using his bow would have been an honor to Atiko. It was entirely possible that the same was true in reverse. It was not the bow, but the man who made the difference. When Buffalo Calf had given Atiko the use of Snapping Turtle's bow, Wildcat had questioned how Hawk would react. To Wildcat's amazement, he learned that Hawk had been the one to insist that Atiko use Snapping Turtle's bow. Who among these people had granted the same right to Snapping Turtle? Was it the leader, or could it have been Atiko's father, the great shaman?

45


Chapter 4 Mourning Dove watched the Ceremony of the Maidens, in awe of the young girls in search of husbands. From what she had learned of the customs of these people, the girls would soon be enjoying the delights of several young men. How much better prepared for marriage they would be than the virgins who knew nothing of the marriage bed. In her village the passage from girl to woman was a private happening. Newly made women were trained for several winters before becoming ready for the courting rites of her people. She had been fifteen winters old when Fighting Beaver played his flute for her and asked her to share his blanket. For the rest of her life she would regret being taken in by him. The only good things to come from their union were Winter Moon and Little Butterfly. It had pleased her when Snapping Turtle sought her out to ask if she was the same girl he remembered from the winter campgrounds of the twelve bands. To hear her own language spoken with the slightly different accent of Snapping Turtle's people had been an unexpected pleasure. For too long she had heard a mixture of languages, and just recently, only that of the new leaders had been spoken. She did have to admit that knowing this language made coming to this village much easier. She had even made friends among the women, who had accepted her without question. She could not help but wonder if any of them knew, 46


or even guessed at, her disgrace, would they have been so accepting. As for her children, they had easily made friends in this new village and were adjusting well. Even Winter Moon's protective attitude toward her had disappeared. He had turned into a carefree young brave who enjoyed being with others his own age. Since her arrival, Mourning Dove had spent much time with Nakoma, as well as Makisa. The knowledge of medical plants she shared with them seemed to have secured her a position within the village. By proving her worth, she had neither the need nor the desire to find another husband. Since she was unfit as a first wife, she did not relish the thought of becoming any man's second wife in order to be accepted in this village. Earlier she had seen Makisa and Snapping Turtle leave the lodge. When Makisa returned alone, Mourning Dove could not help but wonder if some kind of a problem had come to light. As she contemplated the situation, Snapping Turtle entered the lodge followed by two strangers. It didn't take Mourning Dove long to recognize both of the men. She had often wondered how the shorter of the men got his name. To her he was Man Who Likes To Eat rather than Wildcat. Although he was not as tall as either Snapping Turtle or Spotted Pony, he made up for his lack of height with his compact, muscular body. She was certain this was a man who never missed a meal at his mother's table. It spoke well for his mother and the way she cared for him. His handsome features were accented by the fullness of his face. As a youth, 47


his body weight could have been called 'baby fat'. As an adult, it gave him an air of authority, and made him all the more attractive to her. Snapping Turtle turned toward his companions and spoke with them briefly before returning to Makisa's side. His companions skirted around the outer wall of the lodge and made their way to where Mourning Dove stood. "Snapping Turtle said we could help ourselves to some food," Wildcat said. His halting speech pattern told her he was not completely familiar with the language of these people. It was evident by his accent that he was of the twelve bands. "There is more than enough," Mourning Dove replied, using the language of Snapping Turtle's people. Both men looked at her in amazement. "How is it you speak our tongue?" Mourning Dove lowered her eyes, as was befitting someone in her position. "I was born of the twelve bands. I am a daughter of Kicking Bear's people. I followed my husband, Fighting Beaver. Now that he is dead, these people have offered my children and me the security and safety of this village." "Why would you not go back to your own people?" the young man she had recognized as Wildcat asked. Before she could answer, a child's cry diverted her attention. A glance toward the doorway told her that the cry had come from Little Butterfly. Without properly excusing herself, she hurried to her daughter's side. By the time she reached her, Winter Moon had come running as well. 48


"What happened?" Mourning Dove asked as she comforted the sobbing child. "We were playing moon tag," Winter Moon explained. "I was on the other side of the village when I heard her cry." "I fell down and hurt my knee." Mourning Dove made a big production of examining her daughter's injured knee. "We will go back to our lodge. It is time for sleep. We will wash your knee with some warm water and it will be much better in the morning." "Do I have to go with you?" Winter Moon questioned as Mourning Dove scooped Little Butterfly into her arms. "It is a night for celebration. I am having fun with my friends. I am not sleepy." Mourning Dove smiled at her son's request. It was good to see him acting like a child rather than her protector. He would have a lifetime to be an adult, and so little time for childish pleasures. "You may stay and play with your friends until their mothers call them home." Little Butterfly's cries became tired whimpers as she snuggled against Mourning Dove's shoulder. With one backward glance toward the newcomers, Mourning Dove left the lodge and stepped into the chill of the spring night. She felt as fatigued as her daughter. It would be good to slumber beneath her sleeping furs. **** "Who was the woman from the twelve bands that we were talking to?" Wildcat asked Snapping Turtle. "She said she was 49


of Kicking Bear's band and the wife of Fighting Beaver. Why is she here?" "I am certain you have heard of how Fighting Beaver rebelled against Kicking Bear. At the time, he was married to Mourning Dove. His actions did little but get him banished. As his wife, she had no choice but to follow him. He—as well as many others—is now dead, leaving their widows and children without protection." "That may be so," Spotted Pony said, "but why are they here?" "We were responsible for their fate. It is our duty to see to their welfare. That too, is a story best left for another time." Snapping Turtle's answer did little to satisfy Wildcat's curiosity. Although he knew the answers he sought would come later, he wanted to hear more now. "I should have asked earlier about the welfare of Atiko and the Spirit Woman," Snapping Turtle said, changing the topic of conversation. "Atiko is Hawk's captive and the Spirit Woman is to become Hawk's wife," Spotted Pony replied. "What are you saying?" The expression on Snapping Turtle's face told Wildcat that Spotted Pony's information came as a complete shock to their friend. "Over the winter Hawk has become a different person from the one you remember. He is bitter," Wildcat replied. "Atiko has not suffered at Hawk's hands, but he does not enjoy the same freedom as you. Since the Spirit Woman gave birth to her twin sons, Hawk has relented and allowed Atiko to stay 50


with her. It is a concession Hawk has made since he plans to marry the Spirit Woman at the exchange." "Why would she consent to such a marriage?" Wildcat swallowed hard. He honestly did not want to be the one to tell his friend of his brother's threats, but he had no choice. "Hawk told her that if she did not marry him, he would kill Atiko. She did it to save Atiko's life. She is willing to forfeit her happiness to save his life. In doing so, she has saved your life as well." Wildcat watched as the impact of his words began to sink into his friend's mind. "Tell no one of this," Snapping Turtle advised. "For now it is best if these people only know that Atiko and the Spirit Woman are well and have their twins to keep them busy. To know of Atiko's status, or the Spirit Woman's forthcoming marriage, would do no one any good." Before either of them could make comment on Snapping Turtle's statement, an older man approached them. From his headdress, Wildcat was certain this was Clankor, the great shaman who was Atiko's father. When they had been held captive he had seen the man from a distance. Seeing him close up was even more impressive. "Do these men bring news of my son and Kit?" Wildcat stepped forward and clasped the man's arm. "I am honored to be in the presence of a man as great as the shaman, Clankor." "You speak our language well, my son, although I would understand your tongue as well. What news do you bring of my son?" 51


"Atiko is well. Through the winter he has hunted with our people and taught our hunters many valuable skills." "What of Kit? Has her child been born?" "The Spirit Woman has brought about many miracles among our people. On the trek south she saved the life of Prairie Flower, the wife of our chief, as well as that of her son. She also tended to our chief when his horse stumbled and fell, pinning Hawk to the ground. Had it not been for her treatment of him, he might have lost the use of his legs. Her predictions are highly revered by everyone in our village. More remarkable than the things she has said and done, are the two sons that were born to her. They are perfect in every way. I find to look at them together is like looking into a pool of still water. They are so alike, it is impossible to tell them apart." The older man stood for a moment as though in awe of what Wildcat had told him. "Never before has a shaman of my line fathered twin sons. Their powers will be doubly effective in ruling the spiritual lives of our people." The word 'shaman' echoed in Wildcat's mind. He had forgotten about the transfer of power between brothers that Snapping Turtle was so certain had occurred before they left this village in the fall. In the time that Atiko had been with the people he had shown no such abilities. Wildcat ached for the old man. It was no wonder that Snapping Turtle wanted no one to know of the fate of Atiko and the Spirit Woman. This man was already planning the future of his grandsons. To learn they would not be returning to this village would break the old man's heart. 52


In his mind, he could hear Hawk bragging about raising the sons of the Spirit Woman, and the great fortune they would bring to the people of his village. After seeing the miracles the Spirit Woman had brought about, he could understand Hawk's expectations. Once the older man went back to his seat in the circle of villagers, Wildcat turned back to his friend. "When the Spirit Woman marries Hawk, the heart of that old man will be broken. Do you think you can talk sense into Hawk?" Snapping Turtle shook his head. "I doubt it. When he finds I have allied myself with these people, he will be furious. I fear I will have very little influence over any of his decisions." "Then why do you stay? Our people need you." Spotted Pony's question mirrored the ones that were forming in Wildcat's mind. "My wife and unborn child need me as well. It was not my original intention to stay here, but it is my destiny. Serpent's Wing appeared to me in a vision while I was in the sweat lodge. In that vision, he told me Makisa's people would become mine and I would be very highly respected among them. Over this past winter I have proven my worth and gained the respect of even the elders of this village. My wife is a great healer among her people. To take her back to our village would be wrong." Wildcat admired his friend. It took a brave man to fly in the face of his traditions. The decision Snapping Turtle had made would put him at odds with Hawk. Wildcat did not know if he would be able to put his own family behind him, if circumstances made it necessary to do such a thing. 53


Chapter 5 Mourning Dove and Darma sat grinding grain to a fine powder in order to make the dough for fry bread. It pleased Mourning Dove that Darma kept up a constant chatter about the people of the village. It gave Mourning Dove a chance to think about the appearance of Wildcat and Spotted Pony at last night's feast. "The two young men who came to the village last night are indeed handsome." Darma's comment brought Mourning Dove to full attention. "I remember them from when they made the raid on this village to take Kit away with them. Since they are from Snapping Turtle's village, do you know them, as you did Snapping Turtle?" Mourning Dove knew that she would have to be careful with the words she spoke in reply to Darma's question. "I agree they are very handsome. I do know them, as well as Snapping Turtle, from the gathering of the twelve bands at the winter campgrounds. The last time I saw them was just before Fighting Beaver was banished from our people. I remember talking to my friends about how handsome they were even then. Of course, they were younger than me, but I think every maiden in my village tried to get the attention of those three. Fighting Beaver was furious that I allowed my eyes to gaze in their direction. Makisa is very lucky to have won Snapping Turtle's heart." Darma continued to talk about Wildcat and Spotted Pony. Mourning Dove only half listened as her mind dwelled on the 54


three friends who had just been reunited. From the time they had been young men, they had made a striking group. How she envied the maidens who vied for their attention. She thought of the bitter arguments she and Fighting Beaver engaged in over of the conversations she and her friends shared about the handsome trio. "If you know them, what are they like?" "Spotted Pony and Wildcat are excellent hunters, as is Snapping Turtle. Their praises are sung loudly around the campfires. There is not a maiden among the twelve bands who would not welcome their attentions." "Are you among those maidens?" Darma teased. "I was already promised to Fighting Beaver when I first noticed them. As a promised woman such thoughts were forbidden." "Perhaps they were, but I sense they still invaded your mind. Fighting Beaver was a handsome man, but I know he treated you in the same manner as Blanto treated me. I am lucky to be accepted back into my family. Will you be as lucky?" Although Mourning Dove knew she could travel with Snapping Turtle's people to the winter campgrounds, she also knew she would not be welcomed there. As a married woman she had been obliged to follow her husband. When she did, she cut all ties to her family. "I will not be accepted by my people. I am pleased my skills in making medicines and potions are accepted and needed by Makisa and Nakoma." "Do you not miss your family?" 55


"It has been far too long. To them, I am dead, as is Fighting Beaver. You are more fortunate. You have not been gone long enough to be forgotten. Your family is pleased to once again have you within their midst. Those of the twelve bands are not so forgiving." Darma left Mourning Dove to her own thoughts. No matter what she said aloud, she did miss her family. Her youngest sister, Crying Sky, would have taken her woman's name by now. Perhaps she would have met a young man and married. She knew her mother would dote on Crying Sky's children. It would be the same for her brother Red Fox. In comparison, Winter Moon and Little Butterfly would never know their grandmother's love. Until Darma mentioned it, Mourning Dove had given her family little thought. Perhaps she could ask Makisa to inquire about their welfare from Snapping Turtle. Surely he, as well as the members of his band, would know someone as important as her parents and grandparents. A commotion from the other side of the camp diverted her attention from her inward thoughts. Looking up, she saw several young boys, including Winter Moon, gathered around one of the newcomers. After watching for a while, she recognized Wildcat. To her surprise, he seemed to be playing with the children. Surely he had better things to do than to spend time with the boys of the village. She made a mental note to tell Winter Moon not to bother the man in the future. She certainly did not want Wildcat to think she had not taught her children proper manners. 56


As soon as the thought crossed her mind, she dismissed it. She would talk to Winter Moon and discourage him from becoming a pest, but it would be because he needed to learn respect, not because she valued the opinion that Wildcat would form of her. It would soon be time for the exchange of Snapping Turtle for Atiko. When that happened, Wildcat would return to his people and have no thoughts of her whatsoever. It was best if she did nothing to attract his attention. Her fate was decided and it did not include a man who would be looking for a virgin as a wife. **** "Tell us how you caught your horse and trained him," one of the young boys asked after Wildcat finished telling a story of how he, Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle hunted deer and buffalo on horseback. Wildcat scanned the eager faces of the youngsters who had gathered around him. He recognized many of the children from when he had been held captive and they had counted coup by running up to touch him when he was considered their enemy. Also with them were several boys he did not remember seeing before. He knew they had something to do with the things Snapping Turtle promised to tell them about later. "When I was but a young brave, only a few winters older than most of you, my father took me with him to the wild herd. Among them were a mare and her colt. My father wanted the mare for my mother, but I wanted the colt as my own. He was perfect for me, as I could train him to respond 57


to me and me alone. We knew once we caught the mare, the colt would follow her wherever we led her." "Did the colt follow?" one particularly inquisitive youngster asked. "Would you not follow your mother? Since the colt was not yet weaned, he did not want to be separated from his mother anymore than any of you would want to be taken from your mothers. We took both of them with us to the winter campgrounds. There my father broke the mare and I started training Cloud Racer. By the time we returned to the summer campground he was a yearling. It took a long time for the two of us to become one, but when we again turned south I was able to ride rather than walk." Wildcat watched as the child he had first noticed with the woman Snapping Turtle called Mourning Dove, got to his feet and walked away. "I will follow Winter Moon," another boy said, as he too left the circle. Before Wildcat could say anything more, an older boy began to explain. "They are both from the village of the outcasts. Since our men killed their fathers when they went to rescue Makisa, they have no one to teach them to be strong braves." Wildcat's heart ached for the children who would grow up without fathers to teach them to be men. Instead of asking more questions of the boys, he excused himself to find Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle. He saw Spotted Pony approaching him from the river where he had undoubtedly gone for his morning bath. Since 58


Wildcat had awakened much earlier than his friend, he had chosen to bathe as the first rays of the dawning sun crested the eastern horizon. "I can see you are already entertaining the children with your stories," Snapping Turtle said, as he held out his hand to welcome his friend to sit at his fire. "Indeed I have. In doing so, they have told me a story I find needs explanation." "Of what story do you speak?" Snapping Turtle asked once Spotted Pony joined them. "One of the young boys told of a raid on the village of the outcasts. I have never heard of these people before." Wildcat waited for Snapping Turtle to say something, but his statement was met with a long silence. "If my husband is too proud to tell you of the raid, I am not," Makisa said as she joined them at the fire. "Let me get you some tea and honey cakes to satisfy your hunger. If, by the time I return, he has not told you the story, I will do so." Snapping Turtle cast Makisa a glance that said he tolerated her teasing. "It all started after I left you on the trail. On the night we returned to this village, I was among the warriors who intervened when the man to whom Makisa was promised struck her." Wildcat could not restrain his horror at Snapping Turtle's words. "I cannot believe you would consider remaining loyal to a people who would condone such behavior." "Let me finish. It seems many of the young men we had traveled with were also hitting their wives. The older men took them prisoner and held them in the lodge where they 59


held us. Before they could stand before the council and the people, the shaman's eldest son took the lives of his wife and children and then disappeared." Wildcat and Spotted Pony could only stare at their friend in disbelief. For a man to take the life of another in battle was one thing, for him to do the same to his own family was quite another. Never before had either of them ever heard of such a thing happening. "Once the woman and her children were buried, the accused men stood before the council. Although most of the men were sentenced to spend the winter apart from their families, Pikar—the man Makisa was promised to—and his brother were banished from this village. When Makisa refused to accompany Pikar, he was furious. "I am trying to look at this from both sides," Spotted Pony said. "If I were a woman, I would not stay with a man who thought nothing of beating me. Does not Serpent's Wing teach us that it is wrong for a man to beat a woman? How could these men have done such a thing? Although I do not agree with their actions, I can understand the humiliation of being rejected by the woman I thought would be my wife. These men were wrong. I hope they are using their time of seclusion to come to grips with these things they have done and work to make the lives of their families better." "I knew you would understand. After Makisa and I were joined, Pikar returned and stole her from me. My friends and I tracked them to the village of the outcasts. The next morning we attacked. By the time the battle ended, all of the warriors had fallen to our arrows, lances, and knives. It was those who 60


were secluded that went to battle with us. They had spent much time in prayer with Clankor and the other elders. It was their assistance on the raid that redeemed them and sent them back to the arms of their families in honor rather than disgrace." "My husband and the others were very brave in the rescue of me," Makisa said as she served them the tea and honey cakes. "What he has not told you is he almost gave up his life by going on the raid. Had he died, I would not have wanted to continue to live." "You were bested in a fight!" Spotted Pony exclaimed. "Not bested. The man who did this to me gave up his life." Snapping Turtle lifted his shirt to show them the ugly red scar that ran across his belly. "Had it not been for Makisa's skills as a healer, Frader and I would both be walking with the ancestors. She sewed together the skin of our bellies as though she was making a fine garment. I have never seen anything like it before." Wildcat held his tongue. Over the winter he had seen the Spirit Woman sew together the skin of many of the people. The way Atiko explained things, it was a skill the Spirit Woman brought from the future. "That would explain the number of widows and fatherless children in the village. It is no wonder you said you were responsible for their situation. What will happen to them?" "We will care for them until fall. If, by then, they have not found husbands or proven they can provide for themselves, they will return to their families." "And what if the families will not have them?" 61


"Our people will not let them starve," Makisa said. "We are not cruel enough to enslave them as do some of the peoples I have heard about." Wildcat agreed with Makisa. The beautiful woman he had seen last night, as well as the boy with the sad eyes from this morning, deserved to be happy. The woman had told him of being a daughter of Kicking Bear's band. As such, he knew she would not be welcomed back to her family and the knowledge saddened him. He had heard about the men who had been banished over the years. Never had they, or their families, ever been welcomed to return to the life they left behind.

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Chapter 6 "But why, Mother?" Winter Moon asked. "Because it is impolite to bother your elders. The man is an honored guest among these people." "But he tells wonderful stories to the other children. I want to listen to them as well." "I know you do, but you must not show you are disrespectful. I will not tolerate you bothering this man. Sometimes it is better for children to be respectful, as it gains them respect." "But..." "There are no buts. Now go to the stream and bring me some water." Winter Moon hung his head. He did not want to go to the stream for water, but it would do no good to disobey his mother. "Are you going to listen to Wildcat's stories?" Crying Coyote asked when Winter Moon met him on the way to the stream. "I must help my mother." "Do you not remember he said he would help us fashion our bows today?" "I remember, but I must obey my mother. She is afraid that Wildcat will think less of me if I neglect my duties to her so that I can listen to his stories. I will have to learn to fashion a bow by myself. For today, my mother requires my help." 63


Sadly, Winter Moon turned from his friend and made his way to the stream. When his father had been alive, he had not been allowed to play with his friends. His father insisted he was better than any of the children in the village, because his father was cousin to a mighty chief of the twelve bands. Since they had come to this village, he had been able to spend time with the children who were his own age. He had enjoyed playing with the boys of this village. Now that Wildcat had come, his friends were spending their time with the newcomer and his exciting stories. If his mother did not allow him to join them, he would again be alone. He wished that Wildcat and his friend had not come to the village. If they had not, he would be able to be with his friends. Instead he was destined to help his mother, and do the work of women, when he wanted to learn the things only a man could teach him. Above him a hawk circled in the heavens. For a moment, he wondered if the magnificent bird would swoop down and grab him in its talons. Becoming a meal for a hungry hawk would be preferable to being lonely again. As though the hawk overheard his thoughts, it swooped down from its lofty position in the heavens. Winter Moon cringed, as it seemed to head directly for him. Instead it skimmed the ground in front of him before soaring back into the sky with a rabbit clutched in its talons. Winter Moon watched the talented hunter until it became little more than a black dot in the sky. "Someday I will hunt as you do," he declared aloud. 64


As soon as the words passed his lips, he knew how hollow they sounded. He could never become a great hunter without a father to teach him the proper way to fashion a bow and to shoot it accurately. "I do not need a father," Winter Moon shouted to the hawk. "I will copy the bow that belonged to my father, only I will make it to fit my hand. When I am done, I will teach myself how to use it. I will be the best hunter these people have ever had." **** Wildcat sat under the shade of a large willow tree that grew along the stream that fed the bathing pond of the women. Yesterday twelve young braves had sat listening to his stories. They had all promised to return today to have him help them fashion their bows and to show them the proper way to shoot accurately. Each was to ask his father if he approved. Last evening ten men had approached him and once they talked each had given his approval. "My son has his own bow, but he enjoyed your stories so much, he will be there as well," Kikon had said. Wildcat counted eleven young braves coming from the village. Several of the older boys carried bows, a few carried the wood that had already been shaped to be used as bows. Only one boy came empty handed. He recalled the boy from the day before. He had learned this boy, like Winter Moon, had come from the village of the outcasts and had no father 65


to guide him. For the time Wildcat would be in the village he would try to help them in any way possible. "We are only missing one boy," Wildcat declared, unwilling to begin until everyone had gathered. "Winter Moon will not be coming," Crying Coyote said. Wildcat wondered if he should question the boy further. While he contemplated what to do, Crying Coyote continued. "His mother said it was wrong to bother you. She sent him to the stream for water." Wildcat nodded. Rather than embarrass the boy in front of his friends, he would handle the matter privately. If the woman has a good reason to keep the boy secluded from his friends, so be it. If she sees me as a threat to her authority as a parent, I would work diligently to change her mind. Wildcat worked with the boys until the sun stood high in the heavens. Knowing their parents would expect them home for the midday meal, he urged them to return to their mothers' fires, with the promise of more stories on another day. He found Spotted Pony engaged in conversation with Snapping Turtle. "Something weighs heavily upon your mind," Snapping Turtle observed. "Am I so easily read?" Wildcat asked. Spotted Pony's laughter only darkened Wildcat's mood further. "I am sorry to have laughed, but Snapping Turtle and I both know you too well. When something bothers you, the smile we both enjoy seeing upon your face disappears and is replaced by deep furrows in your brow. What is it this time?" 66


Wildcat hesitated for a moment. "You know how I enjoy telling stories to the children." "Of course we do," Spotted Pony replied. "I have noticed you already have a willing audience among the young braves of this village. For them, the stories you tell are new and exciting." "Yesterday there was one particularly sad-eyed child. His name is Winter Moon. I am told he has no father and I looked forward to being a mentor to him, as well as his friend, Crying Coyote. Today the boys brought their bows or the ones they were fashioning so that I could help them. I spoke with each father so I would not cause hard feelings. Each was responsive. This morning all of them returned except for Winter Moon. Crying Coyote said the boy's mother would not allow him to come. I would be lying if I said I was not hurt." "Mourning Dove's life has not been easy," Snapping Turtle explained. "Fighting Beaver was abusive to her and he did not allow his children to associate with the others of their age in the village. I cannot say I understand his behavior, but then it is the same with all of the men of the village of the outcasts. Each was sent away from his own village for different reasons, but that does not matter. By being banished from the familiar, they banded together. Rather than change their ways they fed upon them, and learned new things from those around them. What they learned was not always healthy. I am afraid it was their children, as well as their wives, who suffered because of it."

67


"I feel sorry for the boy. I cannot believe a woman of the twelve bands would deprive her son of being with other children." Although both Snapping Turtle and Makisa tired to convince Wildcat that Mourning Dove was a good mother, he still had his doubts. Winter Moon's sad eyes haunted him. The boy needed a man to teach him the skills to be a hunter, as well as how to be a good father. If he could believe Snapping Turtle and Makisa, the woman had just cause to distrust men, but not to deprive her child. **** Mourning Dove smiled at the amount of spring plants she had been able to find. She would be able to make many different medicines to store for future use from the contents of her bag. With the midday meal complete and Little Butterfly settled in for her afternoon nap, Mourning Dove spread out the treasures she had found on a blanket in front of her lodge. Across the way she saw Snapping Turtle and the two newcomers ride out, apparently to hunt. Is it my imagination or did Wildcat give me a look of disgust? "Can Winter Moon come with us?" Mourning Dove looked up at Crying Coyote's question. "Where are you going?" "We are going upriver to a place where the returning geese have nests." Mourning Dove nodded. An activity like this would be much more suitable than bothering a man of Wildcat's status. 68


"Wildcat was unhappy that you did not join us this morning," Crying Coyote said to her son, as they turned away. "Were there many others there?" "You know there were and he took time with each of us, but he asked about you, as though your presence was missed." Before Winter Moon could make further comment, they had moved beyond Mourning Dove's range of hearing. She could not help but wonder why a man like Wildcat would concern himself with another man's child. As a member of the twelve bands Wildcat must surely know that Fighting Beaver had been banished. Because of that his children were tainted in the eyes of her people. It would not be fitting for Winter Moon to become too friendly with one such as Wildcat. It would only end in her son being hurt and she would not allow such a thing to happen. She continued to ponder the problem while she worked. Mourning Dove had just come to the conclusion that as soon as Little Butterfly awakened from her nap, she would go and visit Makisa, when a shadow fell across her work. She looked up to see Wildcat standing before her, a pair of freshly killed rabbits in his hand. Surprised, she got to her feet, spilling a bowl of herbs she was hoping to dry later. "I have brought you some rabbits for your evening meal." "I-I thank you. Can I get you a cup of tea?" To her dismay, Wildcat seated himself at her fire. "I would enjoy taking the evening meal with you and your family. Once I have these rabbits skinned and cleaned, their pelts will 69


make a fine lining for the winter moccasins of your children. Before I return to my people, I will bring you many more pelts." What does he want of me? "That is very nice of you, but why do you do this for my family?" Wildcat smiled. The very gesture of it made Mourning Dove uneasy. "Perhaps it is the sadness in your son's eyes. Is it there because you do not allow him to be with his friends?" The accusation stung as badly as the blows she had received at Fighting Beaver's hands. Although she raised her eyes to meet his at his accusations, she immediately lowered them to avoid his gaze. "I do not forbid him to be with his friends," she declared, a bit too quickly. "Why was he not with the others this morning?" Wildcat was unhappy that you did not join us this morning. Crying Coyote's words echoed in her mind. "Did you not hear me?" His smile had turned to an angry scowl. "Yes. I heard you. I did not want you to think my son had been raised without proper manners. Within the twelve bands, at least within my village, it was considered disrespectful for children to bother their elders." For the second time his expression changed drastically. She wished he wouldn't smile at her like that. After Fighting Beaver, she wanted nothing to do with another man in her life. How can this man's smile make my insides turn to jelly and my woman's soul throb with desire for him? 70


"I would not have asked the boys to come to me if I did not want them there. I enjoy the young braves. They are much more open and receptive than the adults. Am I wrong in thinking that Winter Moon will be joining us in the morning?" "You are not wrong. It was I who did not want my son viewed as..." "Disrespectful?" Wildcat interrupted. "You can believe me when I say I have found none of the young braves in this village to be disrespectful. I will take the rabbits and get them ready to be roasted over your fire. After we have eaten, I will help Winter Moon, as I did the other boys this morning. Does he have a bow or should I be prepared to help him fashion one to fit his hand?" "Fighting Beaver, the boy's father, had not thought him old enough for a bow yet. I have one of his father's weapons, one that was not put into the burial shroud with him, but it is not small enough for Winter Moon to use. To be truthful, once my children have gone to sleep for the night I have been practicing with it. If I am to make my way in this village, I cannot rely upon the charity of others in order to feed my family." "It is not right for a woman to become a hunter, no matter how proud she is. Winter Moon will soon be hunting and bring small game to your fire. It is only fitting that the man of your household does such things. When I return it will be with a piece of wood suitable for a young boy's first bow." Wildcat got to his feet as quickly as his name implied, and after picking up the rabbits left her fire. 71


Mourning Dove watched him leave, all the while wondering when she had invited him to share the evening meal with them. Instead of pondering why a man such as Wildcat would want to be included with her family at the evening meal, she started to clean up the herbs and plants she had been sorting. If she was to have him join them, she must decide what to prepare to go with the rabbit. Rather than a stew, like she usually fixed, he had made it clear that he wanted the meat to be roasted. In cleaning up the plants she planned to use later, she came across the watercress she had picked. It would make for a good complement to the fresh meat. From the dried vegetables she had stored over the winter, she chose wild onions and carrots, as well as several other things she knew would make a tasty vegetable stew. Once it simmered in a pouch over the fire, she turned her attention to Little Butterfly. With the child's nap ended, Mourning Dove knew her daughter would like a sweet treat to ease the hungry ache in her tiny belly. Picking up one of the honey cakes she had made earlier, she tore off a piece, just big enough for a child. Once Little Butterfly was satisfied with her treat, Mourning Dove stirred the contents of the cooking pouch. "Honey cake," Little Butterfly said. By the tone of her daughter's voice, Mourning Dove knew she was talking to someone other than her mother. "Share." Mourning Dove turned to see Wildcat take a small bite of the cake Little Butterfly unselfishly offered. The sight was enough to bring a smile of delight to her lips. 72


"Good," Wildcat said, licking his lips to retrieve any stray crumbs. "If you would like, I will gladly get you your own honey cake," Mourning Dove suggested. "I would like that. Of course the sweetness of the cake cannot compare to that of seeing you smile." As though making an offering, he held out the rabbits. Once she attached the meat to a spit, she hung it over the fire. With that done, she cleansed her hands in the bowl of water she kept beside her for that very purpose. Without hesitation, she went into her lodge to get Wildcat a honey cake. The thought of a grown man sharing the treat with one as small as Little Butterfly made her smile uncontrollably. **** Wildcat enjoyed the way Mourning Dove's face brightened when she smiled. It certainly accented her inner beauty. Knowing the story of how Fighting Beaver had treated her made him wonder if she had much cause to smile in the past. "Wildcat?" He looked up to see Winter Moon approach him. "It pleases me to have you at our lodge. Has my mother made you welcome?" Wildcat marveled at how grown up the boy sounded. Since his father's death he had surely taken on the role of head of the household. It was more than likely that the boy had been protecting his mother even before his father's death. Perhaps he had even tried to protect her from the man who had fathered him. Whatever explanation, the boy was old beyond 73


his six winters. It was a shame that he had grown to a man so quickly without knowing the pleasures of being a boy. "Your mother has made me more than welcome. I was told you were helping her this morning. It is a good son who puts the needs of his mother before his own desires. Your mother and I have been talking and I will be sharing the evening meal with you. When we are finished, we can begin to fashion your bow." To Wildcat's delight, the boy's eyes sparkled with excitement when he saw the unfinished wood lying behind them. "I can see that my son has returned. I think a honey cake should satisfy his hunger until the rabbits our guest has brought are cooked." Mourning Dove's tone, like the look in Winter Moon's eyes, pleased Wildcat. It was evident she, too, knew the importance of praise. In her hands she held out two honey cakes, one for Winter Moon and one for Wildcat. He nodded his thanks and took the sweet treat. The boy took his as well and mimicked even the way Wildcat took a bite of his cake. This boy needed him and for the time he was in this village, he would be there to assist in any way he could. From the look on Winter Moon's face, Wildcat knew he was eager to begin shaping the wood into a fine bow that would belong to him and him alone. "From the aroma coming from your mother's cooking fire, I do not think the rabbits will be ready to be eaten for a while. I think it is time for us to begin work on fashioning your bow. Not wasting time is a sign of a good hunter and warrior." 74


Little by little, Wildcat helped Winter Moon to shape the wood into the curve of the bow. Although the work progressed slowly, he knew the boy took pride in each cut the knife made into the wood. By the time the rabbit was roasted to perfection, the wood had started to take on the look and shape of a small hunter's bow. Wildcat waited for Mourning Dove to serve him not only the succulent meat but also the vegetable stew and the greens. Once Wildcat and Winter Moon were served, Mourning Dove put stew, meat and greens into a bowl to be shared by herself and Little Butterfly. He wished he had watched her prepare the meal. The flavor of the meat was so different from what his mother or sister prepared it intrigued him. In appreciation, he licked his fingers noisily. In return Mourning Dove beamed at the compliment. By the time they finished eating, the shadows of early evening cast the village into the half-light of twilight. Wildcat could tell it was time to leave by the way the eyes of Winter Moon and Little Butterfly were drooping. Once Mourning Dove had put them to bed, he got to his feet to leave. "I will return tomorrow with more game for your cooking fire." He knew by the stance Mourning Dove took when she stood that she was ready to protest. "That is not necessary." "It may not be necessary, but it is something I want to do. Would you reject my offer because of your woman's pride?" "My what?" 75


"Your woman's pride. Is it not the reason you found chores for your son to avoid allowing him to join the other boys this morning?" "I was trying to show respect for a guest within our village. Perhaps I should not have viewed you as such." Wildcat liked the way she stood up to him. He wondered if this was something she had done with her husband, or if she only started asserting herself since the man's death. The latter was entirely possible. If she wanted to remain in the village, she needed to prove she could make her own way in order for her children to be accepted. He smiled at her misinformation. He had already heard of how she had carved a place for herself among their people. Not only had she been the only woman of the outcast village to offer Makisa her help, but also her knowledge of the proper herbs and plants to make medicines was invaluable. No one in this village would ever challenge her right to be there and become a productive member of the community.

76


Chapter 7 Excitement ran through the encampment like a rainswollen stream. All around Wildcat people made preparations for the trip to the grazing grounds of the buffalo. Earlier, Makisa had explained that this day her father would bless the grounds that would feed the mighty beasts throughout the warm summer days. Having never seen such a thing, Wildcat, as well as Spotted Pony, looked forward to the experience. Not wanting to be in the way, the two friends joined the people, being careful to leave the choice spots at the head of the procession for those who were honored among these people. Wildcat smiled to see Mourning Dove and her children were also at the end of the long line of people. "This ceremony intrigues me," Wildcat said once he fell in step with her "I have heard of it, but never seen it. Before those from this village joined us, we had no shaman. They brought Makisa's brother, Tak, to our midst. He was a shaman and spoke of the ceremony he would have performed if he had lived through the winter. Fighting Beaver told me of Tak's grand plans and was anxious to see them carried out for himself. My husband was intrigued by the man who frightened me more than I could believe." "Was this Tak killed in the attack to free Makisa?" Wildcat could not fathom what punishment would befall anyone who harmed a shaman. 77


"Tak was a coward. He ran away rather than fight with our men. When he did return, he did so only to check on Makisa's safety. Once he was assured she was all right, he took his own life." "How could anyone take their own life? To die in battle or while on the hunt is one thing, but life is too precious to give it up to one's own hand." "From what Makisa told me, her brother took the lives of his wife and daughters before fleeing from this village. Everyone here thought he had allowed the river to take him to walk with the ancestors. I do not think his mind was sound." Wildcat agreed with Mourning Dove. He had also heard stories about Tak. From what he had been told, the man was the one behind the idea that beating one's wife was acceptable. Such a man would be considered dangerous in whatever society he called his home. After being with Atiko for an entire winter, and getting to know Makisa, he wondered how the three of them could have had the same parents and such different beliefs. Had Tak not regretted that many of his friends were punished, while others gave up their lives for his beliefs? The entire concept was as unbelievable as the thought that these men actually followed Tak without question. Wildcat knew if anyone in his village came up with such radical ideas, they would be ignored. Wildcat still pondered the conversation when the procession came to a halt at the buffalo grazing grounds. He knew that Winter Moon would want a better vantage point to 78


watch the ceremony. Effortlessly, he hoisted the boy to his shoulders so he could see over the heads of the adults who stood in front of him. "That is not necessary," Mourning Dove protested. "It is if the boy is to learn of the customs of these people." Around them other men hoisted their sons into the air and seated them on their shoulders. Wildcat smiled to see the others following his lead. Soon only Crying Coyote stood behind the sea of people. It took only a glance in Spotted Pony's direction for him to pick up the child and seat him securely on his broad shoulders. A hush fell over the crowd as the old shaman began to chant. Wildcat decided the words and tone of the chant were as old as the beginnings of the people upon the face of the earth. With the chant finished, Clankor lit the pipe and blew smoke in the six directions, blessing all of those gathered around the blanket, as well as the very ground upon which they stood and the sky above. As though the gods had heard and approved of the blessing, a hawk swooped low. Without landing, it caught a small rodent in its talons. As he soared back heavenward, his cry of victory reverberated across the prairie. When the ceremony ended, Clankor turned back toward the village. Wildcat could not help but wonder if it was his imagination or if the old man's face glowed. Had the gods touched and blessed him, as well as the prairie that would feed the buffalo throughout the summer? 79


Once Clankor paraded past them, Wildcat lowered Winter Moon back to the ground. The look of awe on the boy's face matched his own feelings about the ceremony. "Did you see them?" Winter Moon asked. Wildcat squatted down beside the boy, intrigued by his question. "Who did you see?" "Not who, what. Did you not see the buffalo returning from the south?" Wildcat got to his feet and scanned the horizon. To the south a great cloud of dust had become a black mass of animals surging forward toward the sweet springtime grass. It was amazing that the small boy who had sat upon his shoulders had seen what the others had not. It took only moments for the herd to come close enough that it could be distinguished as more than a dust cloud on the horizon. No matter how impressive the ceremony had been, the powers Clankor possessed far surpassed the beauty and pageantry they had witnessed earlier. Wildcat doubted that even Serpent's Wing could rival the powers of this man. As more of the people saw the buffalo coming, they sang the praises they had sung earlier even louder. Wildcat instinctively knew that as soon as they returned to the village the first hunt of the season would be planned. Within his chest his heart beat faster in anticipation of once again hunting the mighty beasts that brought life to all mankind. "Will you hunt the buffalo?" Winter Moon asked. "Yes, I will assist the hunters." "Can I hunt with you?" 80


The sincerity in the boy's question made it very hard for Wildcat to say no to him. "Not this time. Your bow is not tested. It would be too dangerous for you to join the hunters. You will find your friends will not be joining them either. It takes many seasons of hunting small game for a man to hunt the buffalo." Although he knew the boy was disappointed, it was evident Winter Moon understood the necessity to mature before joining the men. In the short time Wildcat had been in the village, he found himself spending more and more of his time at Mourning Dove's fire. She was always grateful for the game he brought. It pleased him to see she had even started making the warm moccasins for her children for the winter, from the skins he had brought. If he had his way, they would not need such heavy foot coverings in the winter campground, where the deep snow and cold were not a problem. Before the exchange, he would ask her to become his wife. He knew that marrying a widow with two children would go against tradition, but he could not deny his heart. **** Mourning Dove joined the other women packing the supplies necessary for the task of butchering out the meat the men would be providing after today's hunt. Beside her, Rushing Water, Crying Coyote's mother, tested each knife to be certain it was sharp enough to cut through the tough hide of the buffalo. 81


"Do you know the name of the man who hoisted Crying Coyote upon his shoulders so he could see the ceremony?" Rushing Water asked, the hint of a smile touching her lips. Mourning Dove smiled at Rushing Water's question. It had pleased her to see Spotted Pony taking on the responsibility for Crying Coyote. She had been afraid that the boy would feel left out. "He is Wildcat's friend, Spotted Pony. Why do you ask?" "He is very handsome. I would not object if he courted me as Wildcat courts you." Mourning Dove looked up, shocked at her friend's statement. "Wildcat is not courting me." "What else would you call it?" She thought for only a moment before answering. What would she call it? He came to her fire with game and took his meals with her family. He certainly was not as interested in her as he was in her children. No man in his right mind would want a widow with two children as his first wife. "He has taken an interest in my son, nothing more." "He is so interested in your son that he provides you with fresh game and takes his meals at your fire. Everyone has noticed." Before Mourning Dove could reply, several other women joined them. Mourning Dove pondered her friend's words. She had begun to anticipate Wildcat's daily visits and enjoyed them as much as did her children. Never once did he come without fresh game for her cooking pouch. As much as he helped Winter Moon in fashioning his bow, he always found time to play childish games with Little Butterfly. 82


She knew she could do far worse in the choice of a second husband. She also knew with the exchange of Snapping Turtle for Atiko, Wildcat would return to his own people. She had no desire to return to the twelve tribes. As a widow with children, she would not be a fit first wife for a warrior of Wildcat's status. It would be different if he wanted her enough to stay in this village. She had already proven her worth and had made a place for herself among these people. But for a man to leave his village, as well as his family, was not done. There were women of his own band who would vie for his attentions. She certainly did not plan to complicate his life because of her own desires. The bellows of wounded and dying animals combined with the smell of blood and death to bring Mourning Dove back to the animals that were to be butchered. The men of the village hunted on foot, while Wildcat, Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle did the same on horseback. Ahead of her she saw Wildcat lift the liver of the animal he just killed heavenward in tribute to the gods. After a moment of prayer he bit into the still warm organ. With blood running down his chin, he uttered the age-old victory cry. It signified that once again man had been the victor over the animals that sustained the life of the people. As Mourning Dove watched the scene before her, other cries added to Wildcat's until the warm livers of six of the magnificent animals sustained the hunters. It was a scenario she had seen played out many times in her life, but it always 83


fascinated her. She knew she could never bite into the raw liver as the men did. She could not help but remember the first time Fighting Beaver had encouraged her to do such a thing. They had just been banished from Kicking Bear's band and Fighting Beaver had killed a deer. She had been with him on the hunt, as she had nowhere else to go. When he pulled the liver from the animal and held it to the heavens, her stomach rebelled. When he insisted she eat of the organ in order to give strength to their child, she bit into the quivering mass of raw meat. Instead of strength, all it gave her was an overwhelming urge to empty the contents of her stomach onto the lush prairie grass. Her uncontrollable act had angered Fighting Beaver to the point he had neither spoken to her nor allowed her to ride on one of the horses for several days. The thunderous sound of pounding hooves brought Mourning Dove back to the reality of the hunt she had just witnessed. She was glad to have the previous memory shattered, as it was disturbing to her. With the herd spooked and the job of the hunters done, the women began to take off their clothing to begin the job of butchering out the kill. With so many willing hands it would not take long to get the meat ready to take back to the village. Beside her Little Butterfly played in the long grass. Mourning Dove was thankful that Winter Moon was finally old enough to help rather than play with the other children. To her dismay, Winter Moon seemed more interested in the returning hunters than in helping his mother. Before she 84


could say anything, he hurried to Wildcat's side, leaving Mourning Dove alone with the other women. "Did you see how effortlessly Spotted Pony and Wildcat made their kills?" Mourning Dove smiled at Rushing Water's question. It was apparent her friend had decided to become Spotted Pony's wife. Since she had no skills to sustain her among these people, marriage was the only solution to keep her within the confines of the village. Not being of the twelve tribes, she had no idea that a widow was not the kind of woman someone of Spotted Pony's status would want. It would not be long before the two friends returned to their own village. Even if Snapping Turtle stayed behind with Makisa, Wildcat and Spotted Pony would not. Once they were gone, their time in this village would be little more than a pleasant memory. "I remember before Fighting Beaver was banished from our people that he was as adept at hunting on horseback as both of these men." "You are lucky to have such memories. I was but a small child when my parents were killed in a raid. I was taken as a slave. When Flying Goose came to the village, he won me in a game of chance. Although I acted as his wife, I was little more than his slave. No ceremony joined us together as man and wife. Had he lived and taken another wife, I would have become a slave to the new woman in his household and Crying Coyote would have had none of the privileges of being first born." Mourning Dove was shocked by her friend's confession. She had heard of such things. She even knew that several of 85


the twelve bands kept slaves, but she had never witnessed this first hand. Since this was far beyond her comprehension and personal knowledge, she had dismissed it as just stories. "It looks like you are ready to help me with my kill," Wildcat said as he joined them in conversation. "H-help you?" "Did not your husband help with the butchering of his kill?" Mourning Dove shook her head. The thought of Fighting Beaver stripping off his clothing to help in such a mundane task was far beyond her comprehension. "Father said such things were woman's work," Winter Moon replied, coming to her rescue. "That is why I do not want to help her today." Hearing her son verbally express his father's opinions to someone other than herself hurt. This morning when she had told him he would help her today he had given her the same argument. To her amazement, Wildcat stripped off his leggings and stood ready to begin the butchering. Before he turned back toward the animal he killed, he knelt in front of Winter Moon. "Do you not enjoy the meat of the hunt?" Mourning Dove smiled as her son nodded. "Do you not sleep under a warm buffalo robe?" Again the boy nodded. "Do you not think it takes much work to butcher out an animal?" "Yes, but that is the work of women. Men do not do such things." 86


"In my village if the men do not help with the butchering, they are called lazy and not given a share of the meat. Not every hunter is lucky enough to have his bow find game. Especially on a hunt like the one we just had. Besides, if every hunter brought down an animal, there would be too much meat to take care of and it would go to waste. Have you not been taught that it is a sin against the gods to be wasteful?" "You know that I have been taught these things. I have never been taught that men should be expected to do the work that is designated for women. Are you really going to help?" "Of course I am. Have you not seen me dress out the small game that I have brought to your mother's fire? Do I look like I want to be called lazy and not get my share of the meat?" "I gave little thought to you dressing out the game. I thought it peculiar, but you are of a different village, so I did not question you about it. As for being lazy, there is no one in the village who would dare to call you such a vile name." "Then you will help us with the butchering. The first thing we must do is to take off our clothes so that we do not soil them. See, your mother and the others have already done so." Mourning Dove marveled at how her son did as he was told. Once Wildcat had folded the small garments, he got to his feet and turned to face her. As he did, she did not miss his male attributes. She could only imagine the delight of being in his arms and enjoying his lovemaking. **** 87


Once the butchering was done and the meat transported back to the village, Wildcat joined the other men as they made their way to the river to bathe. He smiled to see Winter Moon and Crying Coyote go with their mothers to the bathing pool reserved for the women. "It was good to again hunt the buffalo," Wildcat said as he and Spotted Pony splashed in the cold water. "It was very good, but I am afraid I have given Rushing Water and her son the wrong idea," Spotted Pony replied. "What do you mean?" "Ever since I hoisted Crying Coyote to my shoulders this morning, he has been my constant companion. I am not like you. I am not interested in a woman who can make me a father even before I have known her. You are the one with a soft spot in his heart for children, not me." "What is the harm in paying attention to a fatherless boy? The new moon will grace the heavens soon. When it does, we will return to our village." "What about Mourning Dove? Will she go with you?" "Of course she will. It will be the best thing for her to do." "Have you asked her to marry you?" Wildcat stared at his friend. Until now he had given no thought to the actual act of asking Mourning Dove to marry him. She was not a virgin who needed to be courted and he had no flute with him to play for her. For him, it was enough to take his meals at her fire and help her with the children. "I do not think that is necessary. She surely knows how I feel." 88


"It is no wonder no young woman of our village is seeking you out for your attentions. You have no idea what women want. Do you have reason, other than her cooking and her children, for wanting her as your wife?" Wildcat did not answer immediately. He had given his heart to Mourning Dove on the night they arrived in this village. In the past when his family had questioned him as to why he did not take a wife, he told them he had not found a woman who was right. From the moment he had first seen Mourning Dove, he knew she was right for him. "I had planned to have her meet my family and then ask her." "Oh, now this all makes sense. I am certain that once your mother, sister and your brother's wife meet her and degrade her with their probing questions she will be very anxious to be your wife. If I were you I would ask her before we leave for the celebration. That way, if she turns you down, it will be because she does not want you, not because your family has intimidated her." Wildcat contemplated his friend's words. Spotted Pony had to be wrong. Indecision tore at his heart as he got out of the river. A cold wind from the north chilled his flesh as he hurried to get dressed. "I think you are wrong. My family will love her as much as I do. I have never heard a hurting word pass the lips of my mother or my sister." "Then you have not listened closely enough. I love your mother as my own but she can be very critical. Do you not remember when Wading Bird first brought Walks With A Limp 89


to meet your family? If you do not, I do. Your mother and sister were very critical of the girl until she stood up to them and proved her love for Wading Bird, as well as her worth to your family. If someone who loves another, as much as Walks With A Limp loves Wading Bird, must fight for acceptance, what will it be like for Mourning Dove if she does not love you as you think she does?" Wildcat had no chance to answer his friend, as the celebration of the successful hunt was in progress when he returned to the village. Drums beat out a cadence and singers sang the praises of the hunters and their success, drawing Wildcat and Spotted Pony into the celebration. Although he had hoped to get to talk to Mourning Dove alone about his plans for the future, she was kept busy with the preparation of the food with the rest of the women. Wildcat had no chance to talk to her as he joined the men for the telling and retelling of the stories about the success of the hunt they just participated in. With each telling the danger increased and the bravery of the men matched it. When at last the people began to wander toward their homes, Wildcat looked for Mourning Dove. To his dismay she had already taken the children to their beds. Tomorrow. Tomorrow I will speak to her about becoming my wife. I fear not about her acceptance, as ours is a silent agreement.

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Chapter 8 Wildcat awoke to the commotion of the people making preparations for the journey to the celebration grounds. The trek had been mentioned last night but he had paid little attention. Even the fact that the new moon was so close at hand had eluded him. After his morning bath, he hurried to help with the packing for the move to the celebration grounds. For him, this was something he had done every fall and spring of his life. For these people it was a completely new experience. Even though the move was not on as grand a scale as the ones to and from the winter campgrounds, it was still a momentous occasion. "I would like to talk to you," Wildcat said as he finished packing the last of Mourning Dove's possessions on her travois. "It will have to wait. There is much to be done in preparation for this journey and these women have no idea of what to do before they can begin a trek. In this one thing I am far superior to them and can give them much help." Mourning Dove's answer dampened Wildcat's spirits. He had wanted this business of her becoming his wife settled before they left for the celebration of the exchange of Snapping Turtle for Atiko. Now she was telling him it would have to wait. He did not know how much longer he could go without an answer to his question. "We will find time to talk once we are camped near the celebrations grounds." 91


"We will see. There may not be time for us to talk until after the exchange has been made. Now, I have much to do and so do you. We will see each other later." Wildcat could not help but feel dejected. With Hawk planning to marry the Spirit Woman at the celebration, it would have been the ideal time for him to marry Mourning Dove and take her children as his own. Now it looked as though he would have to wait to become a father to the children he had come to love in such a short amount of time. Such a wait would make little difference in the entire scheme of things, but for Wildcat, waiting was not what he had in mind. He had never been content to wait for anything before. He certainly didn't want to have the experience at this point in his life. Ahead of him, he saw several young boys. It pleased him that he could call each one of them by name. "Wildcat!" Winter Moon exclaimed as he hurried to Wildcat's side. "What is it like to make a trek to another camp?" The boy's question came as a surprise to Wildcat. "Do you not remember your journey from the village of the outcasts?" Winter Moon shook his head. "I was very frightened. I did not know if I would find friends here. I thought perhaps the warriors who had killed my father would kill me as well." Wildcat ached for the anguish the boy had experienced in his short life. Instead of dwelling on the child's dark memories, he began to tell a story of the joy of the trek between the winter and summer campgrounds. Each boy listened, his eyes bright with excitement. 92


"I am to ride with my father," one of the boys declared. Around the circle each boy agreed that his father had said he could ride in front of him as the journey began. Only Winter Moon and Crying Coyote remained silent. "May I ride with you?" Winter Moon finally asked. Wildcat felt his heart swell with pride at the boy's question. "Not only will you ride with me, but I will ask Spotted Pony to allow Crying Coyote to do the same." The sadness disappeared from the eyes of both boys. For Winter Moon it would be only the beginning of his life with his new father. For Crying Coyote it would be only a temporary acceptance by a man. It was likely that a beauty such as Rushing Water would have no problem in finding a new husband. The problem would lie in the man's acceptance of her son. Wildcat prayed the boy's life would be a happy one. The children hurried off to where their families were preparing for the journey, leaving Wildcat alone with his thoughts. In the distance, he saw Spotted Pony approaching him. "The people are almost ready to begin the trek," his friend said in greeting. "Why are you standing here with the boys?" "They had questions that needed answers about what would occur today. I told them a story of the many times we have made the trek between the winter and summer campgrounds. I also told Crying Coyote that I would ask you if he could be allowed to ride with you when we leave. He is the only one among his friends who has no father to hoist him up on his horse." 93


"You what?" Spotted Pony asked, his face mirroring the terror he felt at being asked to act as father to the boy. "How could you have told him such a thing?" "He is a little boy who does not have a father. What is the harm?" "The harm is that he will be hurt when I return to our people. It is different for you and Winter Moon. You and Mourning Dove will soon be married. Because of this the boy will not be disappointed, for you are not leaving him behind. I have to admit I do like Crying Coyote, but I have no intention of marrying his mother in order to give him a father. For me a virgin bride of my choosing is proper. The old traditions do not seem to matter to you as they do to me." Wildcat nodded his head. He would not tell his friend he had not yet asked Mourning Dove to become his wife. He was beginning to wonder if the time for such a question would pass without him being able to ask it. "I will be the one to tell Crying Coyote he must walk while his friends ride. You are correct. I had no right to tell him you would allow him to ride with you to the celebration grounds." Spotted Pony gave him a look of defeat. "You win. Crying Coyote can ride with me. Even so, I will not marry his mother." Wildcat laughed heartily. "No one asked you to marry the woman. You realized you would be doing a good thing for the boy. I can ask nothing more." By the time they were ready to leave, Crying Coyote rode proudly in front of Spotted Pony. With Winter Moon securely 94


in front of Wildcat, he could only smile at the excitement of the two fatherless boys. "Are you ready to begin our journey?" Wildcat asked. "Oh yes, I am truly ready. How far is it to the celebration grounds from our village?" "I, too, am ready for this adventure to begin," Crying Coyote added. "Is this celebration ground far from here?" How like children to ask such a question. Wildcat's inner thoughts turned to the many times he had asked the same thing of his parents as they began the trek to the winter or summer campgrounds. "The morning is growing old," he said. It surprised him at how easily the words his father had always used slipped from his lips. "The sun will be well past its zenith before we arrive. When we do, you will help me and the other men to set up camp. It is our duty to make things easier for our women." "Do you think Spotted Pony will make things easier for Rushing Water?" Winger Moon's question brought a strange picture to Wildcat's mind. "I do not know. Only time will tell as to what will happen. If he does not help her, you and I will help Crying Coyote." Winter Moon nodded his agreement. It felt good to have this child in his arms. He liked the feeling of Winter Moon's small body pressed against his hard chest. He could hardly wait for Serpent's Wing to join himself and Mourning Dove together. Once that was accomplished, Winter Moon would be his son for all time. By the same token, Little Butterfly would be his daughter. 95


As they traveled the distance between the village and the celebration grounds, Wildcat allowed his mind to wander to the vision of Winter Moon and Little Butterfly growing up in his lodge. In his vision, Winter Moon had become a strong warrior and hunter, while Little Butterfly grew into a beautiful woman whom he knew would be not only courted, but also married, by one of the many men who sought her favors. A father's pride dominated the vision that grew to include children from his seed that were planted in Mourning Dove's body. **** Mourning Dove led her horse along the path made by the leaders of the group through the sweet springtime grass that covered the prairie. Wildcat's insistence that they needed to talk bothered her. She did not want to think about what he wanted to say to her. It was enough that he would be returning to his people when the exchange concluded. She had already forewarned Winter Moon that his new friend would soon be gone from their lives. "You look very sad," Rushing Water said as she fell into step beside Mourning Dove. "Is something wrong?" "My concern is not for myself, but for my son. Wildcat will be missed when he leaves." The words burned on her tongue and brought an ache to her heart she could not begin to explain. "Do you really think he will leave you?" Rushing Water's question caused Mourning Dove to turn and look into her friend's face. The younger woman wore a strange expression 96


that reminded Mourning Dove of someone who had information that she did not know. "He has no choice. He will not stay in our village and I cannot go to his. I am dead to his people as well as my own. I refuse to bring disgrace upon Wildcat within his own village. I am not fit to be a first wife to him among the people of the twelve bands. My life is here. I will not uproot my children yet another time." Rushing Water let out a deep sigh. Mourning Dove knew her friend had hoped to capture the heart of Spotted Pony and become his wife. Not being of the twelve bands, she did not know how impossible such a thing would be. As much as Rushing Water loved Crying Coyote, his very existence made the chance of her becoming Spotted Pony's first wife out of the question. At last they arrived at the area where they would camp to await the exchange of Atiko for Snapping Turtle. Mourning Dove had heard of Atiko from many of the women in the village. Their description of the man made her anxious to see for herself if he were as handsome as she had been told. If so, the Spirit Woman was truly blessed to have been chosen as his wife, as well as being the mother of his children. In all her life, Mourning Dove had never heard of anyone giving birth to two babies at the same time. It was indeed a miraculous happening. Mourning Dove knew such happiness would not be hers. As a widow, the people of the twelve bands would never accept her and her children into their midst. She would learn to be content with the life she had come to embrace within Atiko's 97


village. Somehow her children would have to learn the lessons necessary to become productive adults. She could not expect a man such as Wildcat to be shamed if he were to take her as his wife. Although Wildcat and Winter Moon helped her set up the lodge, she found no time to be alone with Wildcat. Since the people had only the lodges brought from the village of the outcasts, many families were forced to share the dwellings. In Mourning Dove's lodge, they had room for several of the widows from her former village as well as their children. Any thought of private conversation was out of the question. The time for the talk that Wildcat wanted her to participate in would have to wait. Unfortunately, with the celebration so near at hand, there might never be a time when such a talk could take place. **** Wildcat felt complete frustration at the situation. His plans to ask Mourning Dove to be his wife had fallen apart. Instead of time alone, he had found her surrounded by the people who shared her lodge. To clear his head, he mounted his horse and rode toward the east. He needed to talk to his family, to seek their counsel as to what he should do. Halfway between the encampments, he saw Snapping Turtle sitting on Wind Racer at the top of a small knoll. Even from a distance, he could sense his friend's indecision. When Snapping Turtle first told them he planned to stay with Makisa's people because of his pledge of honor, Wildcat 98


had wondered what would happen when Hawk was close at hand. The two brothers were closer than most. To think of one without the other was impossible. "You stare upon the lodges of our people," Wildcat said as he stopped his horse next to Wind Racer. "Does your conviction waver?" "More than it should. My brother has done the unthinkable by taking both the Spirit Woman and Atiko as his captives. In taking the Spirit Woman as his second wife, he has further broken with tradition. It is one thing for you to want to be a father to Mourning Dove's children when their true father walks with the ancestors. It is quite another to take a woman and her children from a man who lives and breathes and will mourn their loss. Even so, I long to see my brother, as well as the friends who are now within my sight." "Surely Makisa would accompany you if you were to go back to our people?" Wildcat said. Although he knew his friend had made a pledge, he also knew that no one in either village would think less of him if he changed his mind and returned to the people of his birth. "That is not the problem. No matter which path I choose, someone will be hurt. With Makisa's new status among her people as a healer, it is not right for us to leave. It is also unfair to Hawk for me to not return to him. He has always looked to me for counsel. I have often heard Serpent's Wing refer to us as each half of the whole. Hawk's leadership, although often questioned, cannot be denied. Even at such a young age he is a great leader. As for the wisdom he looks to me to give, it has always come easier for me than for him. I 99


am his other half as he is mine. Neither of us will be content with the distance that will separate us, even though I know I do what is best." "That is where I am lucky. Mourning Dove is of the twelve bands. She has no ties to keep her in Makisa's village." "Do not be so certain. Mourning Dove has proven her worth in more ways than one. She has the knowledge of mixing medicines and healing teas. Makisa would be devastated if she were not in the village to help her." "I am afraid, old friend, that Makisa will have to get used to being without Mourning Dove, as she will be returning to our village as my wife." "I pray it will be as easy for you as you make it sound. The woman is not a virgin. How do you think your family will accept her?" "They will see her as the woman I love and nothing more. The old times are changing. I will make them understand that there is no other woman for me than Mourning Dove. You will see; all will turn out as I have planned." "Then I wish you well. I look forward to being a father to Makisa's child. I do not know how well I would respond if the child was as old as Winter Moon." Wildcat laughed heartily. "I fear I would be ill at ease with a small baby. I much prefer older children." Without further conversation the two friends parted to go in entirely different directions. Turning back, Wildcat saw Snapping Turtle point Wind Racer to the south and a stand of willow trees. 100


The pull of family made Wildcat turn his horse to the east and the lodge of his parents. He needed the counsel of his father and brother regarding Mourning Dove and her children. As he approached his parents' dwelling, he could smell the savory stew his mother tended. Intent on keeping his presence a secret to preserve the element of surprise, he left his horse on the outer fringes of the camp and approached his mother from behind. "Is there enough stew for a hungry traveler?" His mother turned at the sound of his voice and pulled him into her embrace. "We were told Snapping Turtle would not return to the village until the exchange. We thought the same might be true of you and Spotted Pony. Your father will be relieved to see you have come back to us safely." Someone slapped Wildcat on the back in greeting. He turned to look into the face of his father. He wondered if it was his imagination or had the man aged in his absence. "It is good to have you back in the village. I trust you found Snapping Turtle to be in good health and spirits." "Yes, Father. Rather than us finding him, he found us. He is well respected among these people." "I would have expected nothing less. Atiko has said it is quite possible Snapping Turtle will return to us with a wife." "He has taken a wife. She is very beautiful and loves him with all her heart." I dare not say anything of Snapping Turtle's plans to remain with Makisa's people. That is a subject best left for Snapping Turtle to discuss with the people. "There is more than you are saying," his father observed. 101


It always amazed him how his father could read his thoughts so easily. He knew he had to think of something to change the subject. He could not break the confidence of his friend and he did not know if he was ready to tell his family of his feelings for Mourning Dove. To his relief his mother offered him a bowl of stew. At least while he ate he would not be expected to carry on a conversation about things best left unsaid. Once he finished eating he told them of how the great shaman Clankor blessed the grazing ground of the buffalo, calling them back from the southern prairies where they had spent the winter. Around the fire the other members of his family sat, entranced by his story. Word of his arrival had brought Wading Bird, along with his wife and children, to their parents' fire. It had also spread to his sister and Proud Elk. It was good to be within the midst of family and have them as enthralled by his stories as were the children he so often sought out. "And how did this man do such magic?" his father asked. "He chanted what sounded like an ancient prayer in a language I did not understand. When he finished, he blew sacred smoke in the six directions. No sooner did he finish than the buffalo came from the south. I have never seen anything like it in the past." "Did you hunt the great beasts?" Wading Bird asked after he accepted a bowl of stew from their mother. Wildcat acknowledged his brother with a nod of his head. "Spotted Pony, Snapping Turtle and myself hunted on 102


horseback, while their men did the same on foot. In total, we downed six animals." "Did your lance find its mark, Little Brother?" "Why would you ask such a question? Do I not always bring in the game I hunt?" Wildcat's question brought laughter to everyone in the circle. Wildcat could not help but think how good it was to be home once again. "Snapping Turtle promised the three of us would each provide a kill and so we did. I am proud to say mine was the first animal to be downed. After I gave thanks to its spirit, for giving up its life, the young bull provided a goodly amount of meat to sustain the people. Never before have I tasted as sweet a liver as that of the animal I killed." "I do not understand why these men hunted on foot," his father commented. "I have learned much of these people since the time they held us captive," Proud Elk said. "While we were hunting over the winter, Atiko told us that his people have never conquered the beasts that we cherish above all others. It seems that they have never found the need for horses in their lives." "They do now," Wildcat declared. "Snapping Turtle took their men on a raid of the wild herd. They are only learning how to handle their mounts. I think they are still more comfortable on foot, as having horses to help them is still a new idea. I can understand their reluctance to give up their old ways." 103


Wildcat's father rubbed his chin as he contemplated this new information. "It seems to me as though Snapping Turtle's stay in Atiko's village has provided as many changes as Atiko and Kit have brought about here. I think this is a good thing." Wildcat knew exactly what his father meant. Atiko's hunting skills had been coveted and copied by every hunter in the village. When it came to Kit, her stories of the future had fascinated adults and children alike. As for her skills, he had heard how she had saved Prairie Flower and Spirit Chaser's lives when the birth threatened to take both of them to walk with the ancestors. He had also seen her care first hand when Hawk's horse had stumbled and crushed Hawk's knee beneath its weight. Both things were nothing short of miraculous. It was no wonder the people had come to love her and Hawk wanted her in his life as a second wife. "How were you and Spotted Pony treated when you returned to Atiko's village?" Proud Elk asked. "We were treated as though we were honored guests. Much has happened since we left them. In the time we were with them we were allowed to hunt with them and partake in their feasts. I was grateful to Atiko for teaching us his language over the winter. It made communication much easier. I do understand what Snapping Turtle meant when he said that if we listened to them carefully we would find their language to be little different from our own." "I still feel there is something you are not telling us, my son," his father said, once Wildcat paused in the telling of his story. 104


He took a deep breath. At some point he knew he must tell his family of Mourning Dove, Winter Moon and Little Butterfly. If he planned to take this woman as his wife and raise her children as his own, he wanted his family's acceptance. "I have met a woman in Atiko's village. When the exchange is completed, I will ask her to be my wife." "Wife?" his mother shrieked. "How can this be? You cannot even know her. Have you played your flute for her? Have you courted her within your blanket?" "None of that is necessary, Mother. Mourning Dove is a widow. To court her in the normal way would be difficult because of her children, Winter Moon and Little Butterfly." "Is it the woman or the children that you want?" his sister accused. Wildcat and his sister had rarely seen eye to eye on anything, but her biting words about his intentions hurt more than he cared to admit. "I fell in love with her when I first saw her." "How could you consider a woman who is not a virgin as your first wife?" his mother pressed. "Do you think a woman of Atiko's village would adapt to life with us? From what I have been told their traditions and lifestyles are much different from ours." Wildcat took another breath to calm himself before he continued. His choice of a wife would take a lot of explanation. "Mourning Dove is a daughter of Kicking Bear's village and as such is of the twelve bands."

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"Mourning Dove?" Wading Bird questioned as though he had only just now heard her name. "Is she not Fighting Beaver's wife?" "Fighting Beaver's widow," Wildcat corrected his brother. "If she is his widow, she is no better than he. I have heard the stories of his banishment from his people. Had I been in Kicking Bear's position, I would have done the same thing. It is a blessing that Kicking Bear's brother, Red Sky, overheard conversations about the conspiracy and was able to warn Kicking Bear. Had he not, a great chief could have been walking with the ancestors now. Red Sky is definitely the hero in this case. How could any woman, in her right mind, choose to follow him? You are better off without her." "Do not judge this woman too harshly," Wildcat's mother warned. "You are a man. You can make choices in your life. Were any of us in such a situation, we would be expected to follow our husbands without question. I am not saying this woman is an acceptable first wife for Wildcat, but I do not condemn her for the loyalty she showed to her husband." Wildcat silently thanked his mother for her kind words. He knew she said them out of pity for Mourning Dove and for no other reason. She had often lamented the fact that none of the young women who vied for his attention had caught his eye and claimed his heart. She wanted grandchildren from her son's seed, not from another man who was considered an outcast. The discussion continued, alternating between the volatile opinions of the male members of his family and the logical explanation of the women. They made him wish he had never 106


broached the subject of Mourning Dove and her children. It would have been much better to bring them to his parents' fire once they were married and no one could make an objection. "The hour is late," Wildcat said, once he finally got to his feet and stretched. "It is time I returned to our camp." "What need is there for you to spend another night with those strangers?" his father asked. Wildcat knew he had to think fast. He had to have a plausible reason for not staying with his family. "When I embarked on this mission it was at Hawk's request. He will expect me to remain with Snapping Turtle until the exchange is made." Although his family agreed with his logic, he knew they saw it as the poor excuse that it was. If he was lucky, perhaps he could have some time alone with Mourning Dove. If nothing else, he would be at Snapping Turtle's side in case Hawk did the unthinkable and killed Atiko in retaliation for Snapping Turtle's decision to remain with Makisa and her people. Long shadows had begun to fall across the encampment when Wildcat returned from the hastily erected corral where the horses were kept. Cloud Racer had been content to be left with the other horses in the area where both good grazing and water were available. From the center of the semi-circle of lodges, the beat of the drum accompanied the voices of the singers, as songs telling the story of the people were sung. Wildcat recognized the song detailing Snapping Turtle's victory over the outcasts 107


to bring Makisa back to his lodge. He also listened intently to the story of the Spirit Woman bringing Kikon's son back to life after the river threatened to claim him. The darkness of the springtime evening came quickly and with it the voices of mothers calling their children to bed in preparation for the celebration set for the next day. Among the voices of the women he easily picked out Mourning Dove's gentle call to her children. He could easily imagine her calling his children to come to their lodge for the time of sleep. The delightful image stuck in his mind. It would not be long until it was no longer an image but a reality. Wildcat could envision a similar scene being enacted in the village on the other side of the ceremonial grounds. It mattered not your origins; mothers were mothers in every society. He could remember many evenings that he had reluctantly returned to his parents' lodge when he would have preferred to stay outside and play with his friends. In his mind's eye, he could see Winter Moon and Crying Coyote protesting their mothers' insistence that they needed to sleep. Children always thought they did not need to rest. Of course, as soon as they were covered with their warm buffalo robes, they were soon asleep. Hearing Mourning Dove call to Winter Moon made Wildcat realize he would not be able to speak with Mourning Dove about marriage until after the celebration. Her prediction of just two days earlier was indeed coming true. Instead of trying to locate her in the chaos of people and lodges, Wildcat made his way to where the bachelors were seated. 108


"I wondered what had happened to you," Spotted Pony said in greeting him. "I thought you would be enjoying our last day with our new friends." "That is what I should have done, but the pull of our people was too great. I spent time with my family." "Perhaps that was best. Things were very tense when Clankor returned from his meeting with Hawk. I wonder if we were wise to keep Atiko's status from him as Snapping Turtle requested. I hope we are safe with these people." A gnawing fear ate at Wildcat's gut. It was entirely possible that even though Snapping Turtle was a highly regarded member of this village everything could change in the blink of an eye. If Hawk were to harm Atiko in retaliation for Snapping Turtle's decision, none of them would be safe from the reactions of the people who loved and respected Atiko. If that were to happen, Wildcat knew he could not fault these people for their reaction. He knew what would happen to Atiko, if their situations were reversed. Hawk's temper, although rarely seen, was well known. It had been more evident than usual when they had returned from their ill-fated raid before the beginning of the trek to the winter campground. Having experienced it first hand, he knew it was something to be feared. Would Snapping Turtle feel the same temper at the hands of Clankor and those of his village? Wildcat prayed it would not happen, but one could never effectively predict the future, unless of course you were a shaman like Clankor or Serpent's Wing. 109


Chapter 9 To the east, the clouds hung heavy with rain, testament to the fact that the storm that had produced so much rain overnight was moving past them. To the west, the sky was clear, promising a good day for the celebration. As Wildcat came from the stream after bathing, he saw Snapping Turtle and Clankor engaged in conversation. Walking further, he saw Buffalo Calf come into the village as though he was searching for someone. "Are you lost?" Wildcat asked him. Buffalo Calf looked up, then greeted Wildcat warmly. "That is entirely possible, my friend. Where will I find Makisa, Nakoma, and Ula? The question caught Wildcat by surprise. "Why do you want them?" "Kit has requested that she be allowed to see her friends before her marriage to Hawk. Prairie Flower sent me to find them. I am not too proud to tell you I disapprove of this thing Hawk has planned to do." Wildcat nodded his head in agreement. "You are not alone in your disapproval. I fear Hawk will alienate many of the people of our village with this marriage. Snapping Turtle and I have had many long talks about this and we both fear for the lives of everyone when this takes place. Atiko is a wellrespected man in this village. If this marriage takes place, the people might not be so kind to those of us who are not of 110


their people. There could be much bloodshed before this day is over." "I know what you mean. What of our friend, Snapping Turtle? Has he been treated well by these people? Have they given him the respect his position within our village demands?" Wildcat began to laugh. "He is a respected member of this village. Not only has he hunted in Atiko's place, but he has also married the woman who so entranced him while we were captives. More important is that she is Clankor's daughter, as well as Atiko's sister." "Will he bring her back to our village when he returns?" Wildcat shook his head. "He has pledged his loyalty to these people. She is a respected healer among her people. He will not take her away from her family, especially since his child grows beneath her breast." "It is no wonder Hawk is in such a dark mood this morning. He has not been civil to anyone." "How could he know any of this? I said nothing to my family when I went to their lodge yesterday. It is the same with Atiko's status. Among these people it was not known until Clankor returned from his meeting with Hawk and Serpent's Wing." "It is whispered that Hawk has broken with tradition and met secretly with Snapping Turtle last night. What you have told me make his actions understandable. If he knows of his brother's decision, I fear for what will take place once his marriage to Kit is accomplished." 111


By the time Buffalo Calf finished speaking, they had reached the lodge of Nakoma and Clankor. "This is where you will find Nakoma. I am certain she will know where you can find the others you seek." With the task of taking Buffalo Calf to where he could find the three women completed, Wildcat turned to leave. "Where are you going?" Buffalo Calf asked, as though he was afraid to be left alone with these people. "There is someone I must find before we go to the celebration grounds." "By the look on your face, this someone is a woman. Are you off to break her heart by telling her you are returning to our people?" "I am off to ask her to become my wife. When she agrees, I will be a very happy man." Wildcat could not miss the look of concern on his friend's face. "What if this woman refuses to become your wife? That is entirely possible. She may not want to leave this village to return with you." The question Buffalo Calf had just asked bothered Wildcat. Both Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle had voiced the same fears. Could it be that he was the only one to have no doubts about Mourning Dove's answer to his question? If that were so, how would he handle things if she were to reject him? "She knows my intentions. Since I first met her, I have taken my meals at her fire. She should have no problem in leaving this village, as she is from Kicking Bear's village and is of the twelve bands. That, of course, is a long story best 112


saved for telling around an evening campfire. I tell you this is the woman with whom I intend to spend the rest of my life." "I do not doubt your sincerity. I do not know this woman. I can only pray she will be worthy of your attentions." Wildcat smiled at his friend's concern. With a wave of his hand, he turned toward the lodge where Mourning Dove and the children could be found. **** Mourning Dove gave the children their last minute instructions as to how she expected them to behave. They both nodded as though completely exasperated with her constant chatter about how they should act for this special occasion. In the distance she saw Wildcat speaking with a warrior she recognized as Buffalo Calf, friend of the great chief Hawk. She wondered if he had come to confirm Snapping Turtle's safety. She could only imagine Hawk's reaction to his brother staying within the confines of this village. Hawk's temper, even as a young brave, had been well known and feared among those of the twelve bands. "There is Wildcat, Mother," Winter Moon said, pointing in the direction where the two men stood engaged in conversation. "May I go to him?" It broke Mourning Dove's heart to deny her son, yet she knew it must be done. "Not now. After today, Wildcat will return to his people. To bother him would only make things harder for you when he is not here." "How can he leave us, Mother?" 113


"We are not of his people. Our lives are not with the twelve bands, but in this village, with those who respect us." "You and father were of the twelve bands. Would they not welcome us?" Winter Moon said, continuing the questions that, although they came from a child, were anything but childish. The angry words of Kicking Bear rang in Mourning Dove's ears. You and your family are for now and forever banished from the midst of the twelve bands. You have brought shame upon our people. Therefore, your name will no longer grace the lips of our people. From this day forward, you are dead to our people. Should any member of the twelve bands ask of you, they will be told you walk with the ancestors. "Why do you not answer me, Mother?" Mourning Dove knelt in front of her son. "You have heard our former village called the village of the outcasts. It was called such because the men, including your father, had been banished from the people they once called family. To those of the twelve bands, we walk with the ancestors. Although Wildcat says he can overlook this, we will never be welcome in his village. We must think of him and not ourselves. Someone of his status should not have such a stigma associated with his name and honor." The sadness in Winter Moon's eyes tore at Mourning Dove's heart. It was for the best that she had told him the truth, no matter how hard it was for him to accept. She thanked the resilience of her son's youth as he accepted what she told him before running off to join his friends. Beside her, Little Butterfly tugged impatiently on her 114


hand so that they could join the throng of people making their way to the celebration grounds. As she joined the surge of people heading toward the celebration grounds, Mourning Dove could feel the excitement growing. From the other side of the natural clearing where the exchange would take place, she could see the people of Wildcat's village of the twelve bands coming forward. She prayed none of them would recognize her and denounce not only her, but also her children, for being there. The last thing she wanted was for the shame of being of Fighting Beaver's blood to taint them in the eyes of others. At the edge of the clearing, she saw Hawk and a woman who could only be the Spirit Woman begin to approach each other. They each wore garments of fine white doeskin with the pattern she knew belonged to Hawk's family embroidered on their tunics. It was obvious to her, as it must be to everyone who stood watching, that these were fine wedding clothes. Since they were dressed identically, there was no doubt as to who would become man and wife on this day. With the realization of what was about to happen, Mourning Dove began to tremble in dread. How could even Hawk consider such a thing? How could someone as honored as Hawk take the woman of another man as his wife? How could he take the honor of raising the children born of their love from Atiko without so much as a second thought? A hush fell over those assembled as Hawk took the hands of the Spirit Woman, then dropped them dramatically. "Seize Atiko!" 115


Hawk's angry command echoed throughout the two camps. While everyone held their breath, a man Mourning Dove assumed to be Atiko stepped forward and shook off the hands of those who had come to his side in order to do the bidding of their chief. As he moved closer to Hawk and the Spirit Woman he announced to everyone who could hear him that there was no need for anyone to restrain him. In an action that shocked and relieved those assembled, Hawk gave Kit in marriage to Atiko. After such an announcement, he declared his people would move nearer to the village where Mourning Dove had decided to make her future. Hawk's proclamation worried her. How could she continue, when there was a village of the twelve bands so close to the people she had planned to make her own? Sooner or later she would be discovered and shunned. She could not stand that. She had closely guarded the reason behind Fighting Beaver's banishment, as well as her own shame. If those of her new village were to find out, would they insist she leave, or worse yet, destroy her reason for living? Fear clutched at her heart as she watched the people beginning to mingle with those of Hawk's village. The food that smelled so good moments earlier, now made her stomach churn uncontrollably. Somehow she had to get away from these familiar strangers. Little Butterfly's tug at the bottom of Mourning Dove's skirt gave her the excuse she needed to leave. The great number of strangers frightened the child and naptime was fast approaching. Scooping Little Butterfly into her arms, she 116


turned to leave. As she did, she saw Rushing Water coming toward her. "Will you watch Winter Moon for me?" Mourning Dove blurted out, the words tumbling from her lips. Rushing Water's expression was one of bewilderment. "Are you ill?" Mourning Dove thought it ironic her friend had come so close to the truth. "I am well. All of these strangers have frightened Little Butterfly. Since it is time for her nap, I feel it best if I take her back to our dwelling. She will rest better there. I do not want to spoil Winter Moon's fun though. He looks like he is enjoying not only the celebration but all of the new friends he is making." "You know I will watch out for him. I just feel badly about you missing the celebration. There are many handsome men here. I am in the hopes one of them will be looking for a second wife and see me as someone of interest." "There will be other celebrations and, unlike you, I am not looking for a husband. Besides, there are some plants by the creek that I need for my medicines. Once Little Butterfly wakes up I will be able to gather them in peace. With so many people in such a small area, it makes gathering the plants that I require much harder." As though Little Butterfly understood Mourning Dove's need to get away from the celebration, she snuggled against her mother's neck and stuck her thumb in her mouth. Without further validation of her reason to leave, Mourning Dove turned back toward the village. She did not like telling even a bent version of the truth to her friend. 117


Once Little Butterfly was sleeping soundly, Mourning Dove worked at packing her belongings for the trek back to the main village that would begin in the morning. As much as she would miss Wildcat, she knew it would be best for both of them to be separated by the distance between the two villages. Someone of Wildcat's status deserved a wife who could make him proud. He did not need an outcast who was considered dead to the twelve bands. **** Wildcat could feel a rush of relief when Hawk relinquished the Spirit Woman to Atiko. The tension he had expected between the two villages dissolved instantly. As soon as the wedding ceremony was completed, he hurried to find Mourning Dove. In the distance he saw the young braves of Atiko's village gathered around Spotted Pony and mingling with the young braves of Hawk's people. He instinctively knew the leader of the young braves from Hawk's village would be Spotted Pony's nephew, Soaring Hawk. As much as he yearned to join them in their games, Wildcat found he had other things on his mind. A quick check of the area told him Mourning Dove was nowhere in sight. "Are you looking for Mourning Dove?" Rushing Water's close proximity came as a surprise. It also reminded him that his preoccupation with Mourning Dove had dulled his senses. At any other time no one would have been able to sneak up on him unnoticed. "Yes I am. Do you know where she is?" 118


"Little Butterfly was tired, so Mourning Dove took the child back to the village for a nap. I think Little Butterfly was frightened by all of the people." Rushing Water's explanation was more confusing than the fact that Mourning Dove was nowhere to be found. "I cannot believe Mourning Dove would leave without eating. What about Winter Moon? Did she deprive him of attending the celebration as well?" Rushing Water shook her head. "Winter Moon is with the young braves. I promised Mourning Dove I would watch over him until her return." Wildcat thanked Rushing Water, then turned toward the west. He gave no more thought to the food that was in abundance. Instead, he hurried toward the lodge where he knew Mourning Dove could be found. Since all of the people were at the celebration, the entire area would be deserted, giving him both the time and privacy to speak with the woman he had come to love. He found Mourning Dove's dwelling with little trouble. It too looked deserted until he saw Mourning Dove come out. "What are you doing here?" she asked as soon as she saw him standing before her. "I could ask the same of you. You are missing the celebration." "Little Butterfly was ready for her nap." "She could have slept at the celebration grounds, as do the other children who sleep under the watchful eyes of many mothers and grandmothers." 119


"So many strange people have frightened her. Now that I have explained to you why I am here, what is your reason for leaving all of the food and excitement of the celebration?" Wildcat took her hands in his. "I told you days ago that we needed to talk alone." "I do not understand why," she replied, pulling her hands from his grip. He watched as she seated herself on the trampled prairie grass. How could she not know what I am about to say? My feelings for her are apparent to my friends, why are they not so to her? To silence the thoughts running through his mind, he again took her hands in his. "I want you to be my wife. I want to take you and the children back to my village so we can be a family." At his words, she again pulled her hands free of his, as though his touch was like that of a hot ember. Once she did, she lowered her eyes so she could not meet his gaze. He did not like the look of shock mingled with sorrow that filled her eyes before she hid them from his view. "I cannot marry you," she finally said, her voice hardly louder than a whisper. "Tell me why. Your answer is unacceptable to me. I thought..." "You thought I would fall into your arms because you brought fresh meat to my dwelling. You have much to learn. There is no choice for you but to accept my decision." "Do you not care for me?" 120


"That is not an issue. I cannot uproot my children again. Going to your village would be impossible." Her reply tore at his very being. "Do you suggest I align myself with these people as Snapping Turtle has done?" "I suggest nothing. I only say I will not go to your village. If you ponder the situation, you will surely know why." "What of Winter Moon and Little Butterfly? Who will be their father?" "It is entirely possible they will have no father and yet many men and women in this village will become mentors to them. Among these people, I have status. In your village I would always be an outcast. I cannot—I will not—do such a thing to you." "We can overcome whatever it is you fear," Wildcat pleaded. He was well aware he had never done such a thing in his entire life, but for Mourning Dove's love he was willing to humble himself before her. "You think you want me now, but it would not take long for you to understand what I am talking about. When you do, where would that leave my children and me? It is better this way. Go back to the celebration and your people. Your place is with them as surely as mine is here." Wildcat could only stare at her in disbelief. He had made a fool of himself. It was apparent that her feelings for him did not run as deep as his for her. He certainly could not understand why she would not want to move with him to his people. Had she not told him she was of Kicking Bear's people? If she told him the truth, there should be no reason for her to stay away from those of the twelve bands. 121


"So be it," he replied, trying to be cold and remote. He prayed his voice would not betray his broken heart. Without saying more, he turned from Mourning Dove and made his way to the bachelor's lodge. Once he retrieved his belongings, he went to the corral to get Cloud Dancer. The sooner he put a goodly distance between himself and this village, the better it would be for all concerned. Rather than ride back to the celebration, he gave the area a wide berth. After dropping far to the south, he turned east and rode for a long time before turning north to come into the newly erected village from the side, as far from the celebration as possible. He knew if he were to see Winter Moon, he would be tempted to take him from his mother and raise the boy as his own. Hawk's village was as silent as the one he had just left. It took only a matter of moments to find the lodge that belonged to the bachelors. Once his belongings were put away, he picked up his bow and rode out to hunt. **** Mourning Dove watched Wildcat walk away from her. It wasn't until he had disappeared from her sight that she gave into the tears that represented her loss. Telling Wildcat she could not be his wife was the hardest thing she had ever done. As quietly as possible she entered the lodge and lay down beside her daughter. Unable to stop her tears, she closed her 122


eyes against the world. It took only moments for her to fall into a troubled sleep. In her dream, she watched Wildcat walk away from her again and again. The Mourning Dove in her dream ran after the man she had come to love. She shamelessly begged him to return to her, to let her explain. The cold look in his eyes when he returned her glance broke her heart into a million pieces. She could have been happy as his wife but not in his village. Once his family realized just who she was, they would persuade him that it was best if he was rid of her. She could not give her children a father, only to have him put them aside.

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Chapter 10 Wildcat stayed away from his village for three days. The rain that began on the third night he spent alone in the forest prompted his return. "Where have you been?" Spotted Pony asked when Wildcat entered the bachelor's lodge. "I needed some time alone," Wildcat replied, unwilling to discuss any of the reasons for his absence, even with his best friend. "So we thought. We have searched not only this village but also sent runners to Snapping Turtle, so that he could do the same. He even questioned Mourning Dove, but she only said that you left her on the day of the celebration." The memory of Mourning Dove's denial echoed in his mind, making the nightmare he had experienced ever since leaving Snapping Turtle's village all the more vivid. It had been the nightmare that played itself out every time Wildcat closed his eyes, the nightmare that kept sleep from visiting his mind and body. "You look terrible," Spotted Pony declared when Wildcat made no attempt to explain his absence from the village. "Have you slept or even eaten in the time you have been gone?" "Eaten?" Wildcat answered, unable to fathom his friend's question. "Do you not remember what eating is?" "Of course I do. It is just that I have not been hungry." 124


"What happened between you and Mourning Dove? It seems as though she was the last person to see you before you disappeared, and yet she refuses to talk about what transpired during your visit." Wildcat could feel the churning begin again in his stomach. For the first time he would be forced to put voice to the events surrounding his last meeting with Mourning Dove. At least it was one of his best friends who demanded the answers and not his family. "She does not want to be my wife," he said, his words burning like a bitter root on his tongue. "I was afraid that was what had happened. I tried to talk to her, but she would not even meet with me. I did not want to leave without an answer. I am afraid she gave me no choice. Rushing Water said she would watch over Mourning Dove and her family, but I wonder if that is enough." "There is nothing to watch. Mourning Dove would rather raise her children alone than become my wife. She refused to come to this village with me." Spotted Pony shook his head. "Rushing Water says Mourning Dove will not talk about her decision. The only thing she would say was that she was not a proper wife for you. Do you know why she would think such a thing to be true?" "She told me that once I found out about her I would no longer want her. I did not understand what she meant at the time, and I still can find no reason for her saying such a thing." "Perhaps you should confer with Serpent's Wing. He knows about things we cannot begin to understand." 125


Wildcat nodded. His friend made sense, but in his heart he knew he would not seek the council of the old shaman. Speaking of Mourning Dove to Spotted Pony had broken his heart for a second time. There was no use in aggravating the wound further. Outside, the rain continued to pound against the teepee. It was as though the heavens were crying for his loss and mourning his sorrow. He turned his back to Spotted Pony, indicating he no longer wanted to discuss anything. Once he took off his wet clothes and replaced them with dry leggings and tunic, he lay down on his sleeping furs. It was good to be dry and warm. He no more than closed his eyes than sleep overcame him. During the time he had been alone in the forest, sleep had remained a stranger, and when it did come the dreams were so terrible he awoke within moments of giving into his body's needs. In the dream that now dominated his subconscious, Winter Moon held out his arms to him. With childish innocence, he called Wildcat 'Father', until Mourning Dove snatched him away. "This man is not your father. Your true father walks with the ancestors. You do not need another." "NO!" Wildcat shouted, waking himself in the process. To his relief he was alone in the lodge. He lay for a long time, trying desperately to make sleep return to his body. When it did not, he got to his feet and went outside. The village was the same as it had always been. Old people sat in front of their lodges telling the stories they had 126


repeated over and over again for most of their lives. Children chased each other, as well as the camp dogs, in age-old games of tag. In the distance, the hunters were returning, their packhorses loaded with game, while the women made preparations to begin preserving the meat. Wildcat wanted no part of any of these activities. In an attempt to avoid all of those who would make demands upon his time, he headed toward the corral and Cloud Racer. Over the past few days they had been constant companions, yet Wildcat had neglected the horse he had raised from a colt. His shrill whistle brought Cloud Racer to his side. "I am sorry to have neglected you, boy," Wildcat said as the horse nuzzled his hand. "I have been too concerned with myself to see to your needs." "Do you crave the companionship of your horse more than that of your friends?" Wildcat turned at Hawk's question. "I am not fit company for my friends." "So I have heard. Many people have come to me with their concerns about you. Perhaps it is best if we take a walk and talk about this thing that has taken you from us, although physically you stand next to me." "There is nothing to talk about, Hawk. This is something that is best kept private." Not wanting to continue the conversation further, Wildcat turned away from his chief. Hawk's hand on Wildcat's arm stopped him. "For the good of the people it is best if you and I see if we can work this out. If you want no one else to know, it will remain between the two of us. I think of you as I do my own brother. I realize 127


that, over the winter, we were at odds with each other, but things being as they were I was not myself." Wildcat was surprised by Hawk's confession. "Does Snapping Turtle's decision to remain with Makisa's people change your mood?" "It does not please me, but I do understand his need to uphold his pledge of honor. It is the reason I have moved our village to be closer to him. My brother is a good man and will become great among these people. But of course, we both know that my brother is not the reason I have asked you to talk with me." Wildcat did understand. Children grew from boys to men and with that growth even brothers grew apart. Snapping Turtle had found honor and love in a strange village with a beautiful woman. How could he, someone as lowly as Wildcat, tell Hawk his heart had been lost to a woman of the same village? "I took my anger out on you for my brother's decision. That was wrong of me. My concern overrode my judgment. I have known you for your entire life. As my brother's best friend, you are like another brother to me. It pains me to see you in a condition such as this." Wildcat glanced back toward the village. He knew Hawk could be trusted, as could Spotted Pony, but he wanted no one else to hear of his shame. "Come, ride with me to that stand of willows. There the prying ears of others will not hear what you have to say to me. I give you my word of honor that nothing you say to me in private will pass my lips." 128


Wildcat appreciated Hawk's concern. Once they were mounted and riding toward the willows, Wildcat knew it was for the best that he allowed Hawk to know of the ache in his heart. For the first time since before the traitor came to their village to tell them of the Spirit Woman, Wildcat saw the man Hawk used to be emerge. It was good to have his chief back again. In looking at him now, the bitterness that had resided between the two of them over the winter seemed to disappear. The willows dipped their long graceful branches into the swift running waters of the stream. Birds sang and on the other bank a timid deer came to drink. Here, no prying eyes or listening ears would disturb them. Whatever he said would be for Hawk's ears only. "We are alone," Hawk observed. "Tell me what it is that weighs so heavily upon your mind." Wildcat seated himself on one of the large rocks that lined the bank of the stream. "Surely Snapping Turtle has told you of the attack on the village of the outcasts." Hawk nodded. "He also said that battle almost cost him his life. I have always known of my brother's bravery, especially when it comes to the people he loves. I am proud of the way he fought, and saddened that he almost lost his life and took those of others." "You speak the words of truth. I, too, felt the same pain, but he would have given his life willingly in order to save Makisa and the child she carries under her breast. It is also true that all of the men of that village gave their lives in the 129


process. Many women were left as widows, and their children without fathers." Wildcat knew he was drawing out the story, but it had to be told in his own way or not at all. "It speaks well of the people of Atiko's village that they have taken in those women and their children," Hawk replied. "I am told some have already found husbands from among the warriors and hunters." "What you say is true. Of these women there is one who is very special. Her name is Mourning Dove and she is of Kicking Bear's branch of the twelve bands." "Does this woman have children?" Wildcat inhaled deeply. Would even Hawk question the motives surrounding his love for Mourning Dove? "Yes, she has a boy of six winters and a girl of three winters." "Your love for all children is well known among our people. You are respected for your tolerance of these children. They all love you and look forward to your stories. My question is this, is it the woman, or the children, that intrigue you?" "Honestly, it is both. I desire to spend the remainder of my life with Mourning Dove. She stole my heart the moment I first saw her. As for her children, I would be a happy man to hear Winter Moon and Little Butterfly call me father." "How does this woman feel about you?" Hawk's question made Wildcat's heart pound hard and a lump form in his throat. Until this moment he had told only Spotted Pony of Mourning Dove's rejection. After swallowing hard and taking a deep breath, he prepared himself to tell Hawk what weighed heaviest upon his mind. "I thought her 130


feelings were the same. I asked her to be my wife and was shocked when she said no." "It is strange that a widow would turn down the love and protection of a man. Did she tell you why?" Mourning Dove's words echoed in Wildcat's mind, as they had ever since he left her lodge to seek the solitude of selfabuse. "She told me she would be an outcast within my village and that I would come to hate her." Hawk's expression became one of puzzlement. "I understand her statement no more than you. Perhaps it is best if you go to Kicking Bear's village to see if anyone there can explain her feelings. I believe that is the only place where you will find the answers you seek." As much as Wildcat wanted to spend time with his family, and still remain close to Mourning Dove, Hawk made sense. He had not thought of going to the village that had banished her husband to learn the truth. His only thoughts had been of remaining close enough to Mourning Dove to persuade her to change her mind. Hawk's suggestion made perfect sense. "I will leave immediately." Hawk's hand upon Wildcat's shoulder stopped him before he had a chance to turn back to where they had left their horses. "I will not allow you to leave until you are rested," Hawk declared. "I fear you have not slept nor eaten properly since you left Mourning Dove four days ago. When I feel you are ready for such a journey I will send Spotted Pony with you." "I do not need..." 131


"I think you do. Kicking Bear's village lies far to the south and east. It is at least a two to three day journey. I do not want you going alone. Too many things could happen along the way." "What if I spoke to Mourning Dove again?" Wildcat's question brought the image of Mourning Dove's face to his mind. "If I did, perhaps this journey would not be necessary." "I do not think that is wise." Wildcat could see concern in Hawk's dark eyes and hear it in his voice. "Until you know what her reasoning is you may only be doing yourself more harm than good. Come with me back to the village. Your mother and sisters are among those who are the most concerned about you. They will want to see for themselves that no harm has befallen you." Wildcat knew Hawk was right. He had neglected his family. With his burden shared with another, he had found a logical solution and at the same time put his mind at ease. For the first time in days, his stomach growled in anticipation of one of his mother's fine meals. "You are right. I have neglected my family and caused them to worry unnecessarily. I anticipate a meal from my mother's cooking pot. I will race you back to the village," Wildcat said as he swung onto Cloud Racer's back. In no time, Hawk was mounted and gaining ground on Wildcat and Cloud Racer. Wildcat flattened his body against the horse's neck to push harder against his chief. As the corral came into view only a short distance separated the two riders. When they finally reined to a halt, it was at the same time. 132


"Had I not been riding an untested stallion, I would have beat you," Hawk declared. Wildcat knew what Hawk meant. The horse he put down on the trek to the winter campground was the fastest mount in all the twelve bands. It was well known that Kicking Bear had raced Hawk more than once in the hopes of winning the stallion that Hawk counted as his most prized possession. Once the horses had been cared for, Hawk grasped Wildcat's forearm. "It pleases me that we have had this talk. I wish I knew the answers you seek. This is a quest you must embark upon by yourself for no one can answer your questions but Kicking Bear himself, or perhaps his people. I am relieved that Spotted Pony will be with you on this journey." Wildcat agreed. In all of the important events of his life, Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle had been at his side. Makisa had stolen one friend's heart, removing him from Wildcat physically. The emotional bonds were harder to break. Should either of then ever need the other, no barriers would be too great to keep them separated. For now, Wildcat knew that Spotted Pony would be more than willing to embark upon the journey with him. Together they would travel to Kicking Bear's village, as they had to Atiko's people in search of Snapping Turtle. The aroma of roasting meat assaulted his nostrils as he approached his mother's cooking fire. Her greeting was as enthusiastic as it had been days earlier. From the look on her face, it was evident she had thought her youngest son walked with the ancestors. 133


At the sound of his voice, she turned and embraced him. Tears that he rarely saw her shed ran down her cheeks and for a moment rendered her unable to speak even his name. Never before had he seen such emotion from the woman who gave him life. "You look thin and tired," she declared, once she regained her composure. "Come and sit by the fire and join us in a bowl of stew." Wildcat did as he was told. One by one the other members of Wildcat's family joined them. Each seemed eager to hear of what he had been doing, and where he had been, since the celebration of the exchange had been made. "We feared for your life when you did not return to us," his sister said. "I insisted that Proud Elk go to the village where Snapping Turtle has aligned himself to seek you out. The worry only increased when he returned to say that you were not there." The comment made Wildcat's heart heavy. "I am sorry to have caused you concern. I needed to be alone to think about the future. Even solitude did not bring me the answers I sought." "Does this have anything to do with the woman you told us about?" his father asked. Again Mourning Dove's face dominated his thoughts. She stood securely in the midst of him and his family, as though willing him to learn more about her. "It has everything to do with her. What do you know about the reason Fighting Beaver was banished?" 134


His request brought a puzzled look to those seated around him. His father's brows knotted as thought he was in deep thought before he answered. "Only what the people of Kicking Bear's band say. It is rumored that Kicking Bear had his reasons, but he will not speak of them. Why do you ask?" "Mourning Dove would not consent to being my wife. Her excuse makes no sense to me. Hawk has suggested I go to Kicking Bear's village to see if I can get the answers I seek." "You will be welcomed there, as your mother and Kicking Bear's mother are sisters. Tell him of your connection with his family and you will be treated as an honored guest." Wildcat could feel his spirits soar. Since his parents rarely spoke of their parentage, he had no idea of his connection with Kicking Bear. With the bond of family, it would be entirely possible that Kicking Bear would be forthcoming with the information he sought.

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Chapter 11 Mourning Dove shed her tears over the loss of Wildcat's attention when her children were at play with their friends. Although many of the men from the village brought fresh game for her cooking pot, it was not the same. They had families with whom to spend time, while Mourning Dove and her children took their meals alone. More and more she missed Wildcat's company. Even though she knew she made the right decision in rejecting him, it hurt. If only she could have him without bringing shame upon him, she would be the happiest woman in the village. Of course she knew her wants and desires were selfish. She could not bring such shame upon the man she had come to love. "I cannot believe that Wildcat left this village without you," Rushing Water said as they sat in the afternoon sunlight with their sewing. "I told him to leave." Mourning Dove wondered if her friend would believe her sincerity, when even to her the words sounded hollow. "It is the best thing I could do for him." "Why would you do something like that? Wildcat is one of the most handsome men I have ever seen. I know he was in love with you. How could you turn him away? Are you not concerned about not only your future, but that of your children?" "Of course I am, but there are many things you do not understand. His desire for me is but a thing of the moment. I 136


would have been selfish to accept his proposal of marriage. I can never be the wife he wants or deserves. He would soon come to realize that and be dissatisfied with me. It is best this way." A shadow fell across Mourning Dove's handiwork, causing her to look up at the man who stood before her. She had seen Atiko from a distance, but never so close at hand. To have him standing so close made her mind flood with possibilities for why he was here. "Are you the woman they call Mourning Dove?" Her heart pounded with urgency. As a shaman, would he denounce her for the medications and teas she prepared? Would he know of her shame and insist she leave this village? Would she never live down the shame of being banished from the village of her birth? If any of this were so, where would she and her children go? How would they survive? "Yes, I am Mourning Dove," she said, getting to her feet to stand as an equal with him. "I am Atiko. I have heard many good things of you from not only my mother, but also from my sister. My wife and I would like to have council with you." Mourning Dove willed herself not to tremble. A private council could only mean he did not wish to denounce her in front of Rushing Water. "I would be honored to have council with you and the Spirit Woman," she replied. She prayed her voice would not waver and betray her apprehensions. Before leaving she glanced at Rushing Water. The slight nod of her friend's head told her she need not worry about 137


the children. If they returned from their play it would not be to an empty lodge. Once assured that her children would be cared for, Mourning Dove followed Atiko. To her surprise when he saw she walked behind him, he stopped and waited for her to catch up. Although she knew it was not proper for a man and a woman to walk side by side, she said nothing. "I sense you are uneasy," Atiko said as they crossed the commons area to where his lodge stood. "If my wife has taught me nothing else, I have learned that men and women are partners in life. More than once I have heard her admonish not only me, but also Hawk, for expecting her to trail behind like a whipped camp dog." His statement surprised her, even though it should not have done so. Since her arrival in this village, she had heard many wondrous stories about the Spirit Woman. In her wildest dreams Mourning Dove had not expected to have a private meeting with the woman everyone held in such high esteem. By the time they reached the lodge, Mourning Dove could only stare at it in disbelief. When she first arrived in the village she had questioned the strange pictures on its outer skin. She had been told it was originally erected for the Spirit Woman. When she left the village it had been kept intact, in anticipation of her return. Later it had been used to confine the raiding party from Hawk's village and then the men who beat their wives. It had had many uses, until now, the woman for whom it had been built, again occupied it. It amazed her that a shaman would call this lodge home. There were no 138


pictures of his bravery, only ones depicting the life his wife had led in the future. Of course, it had been only a few days since their return, hardly enough time to add his own accomplishments to the outer skin of their dwelling. "Kit, come out and join us," Atiko called when they arrived. The fact that no one sat at the small fire burning in front of the lodge did not surprise Mourning Dove. A woman with two small babies to care for would have little time to sit in the sun to await her husband's return to their lodge. Mourning Dove watched as the woman she had studied from afar came out of her lodge, a baby balanced on each hip. Up close the woman's red curls, green eyes and white skin made for a striking combination. "I am so pleased to meet you," Kit said once she handed a baby to Atiko and extended her hand in greeting. For a moment the gesture bewildered Mourning Dove. She had seen men clasp each other's forearms in greeting, but never had a woman extended the hand of friendship to her in such a way. Timidly, she held her own hand out. It was comforting when the Spirit Woman clasped Mourning Dove's hand and shook it. The woman's grip was firm and the friendship that radiated from it reassuring. "My mother-in-law and sister-in-law have told me many good things about you. How do you come by your knowledge of medicines?" Mourning Dove relaxed. She genuinely liked the Spirit Woman. After seating herself at the fire, she began to explain. "My grandfather, Black Cloud, is a shaman among Kicking Bear's band and my mother, Blue Sky, is well versed 139


in the knowledge of plants and herbs. When I was a child she taught me to one day take her place. It is a shame that one cannot always predict the future." Speaking of her family made uncontrollable tears form in Mourning Dove's eyes. It had been seven winters since she had seen any member of her family and she missed them more than she ever thought possible. "I know of both Black Cloud and Blue Sky," Atiko said when she paused. "I met them at the winter campground. They are indeed well respected members of Kicking Bear's people." Mourning Dove beamed at the compliment. No matter what, she still loved her grandfather and mother. Just knowing that they were both well and alive was a comfort to her. Over and over again she wished for the comfort of their embrace, the warmth of their love. Unfortunately, they would not meet again until they all walked with the ancestors. She could only pray that their hearts would have softened toward her by the time they met once more. It did not take long for the babies to fall into a peaceful slumber. When they did, Atiko took them back inside the lodge and returned with cups of steaming tea. The thought of a man, especially a Shaman, serving a woman was unbelievable, yet he seemed at ease in the role of a servant. "I am told you and Wildcat have become very friendly," the Spirit Woman said. Just the mention of Wildcat's name made her miss him as much as she did her family. How could she keep her resolve and not blurt out how much she cared for him? "He has been 140


very kind to me, as well as to my children. He has returned to his people and I have the memory of a good friend." "I do not understand," Kit said. To emphasize her bewilderment, she scratched her head as though in deep thought. "Both Snapping Turtle and Makisa have told me that Wildcat planned to ask you to be his wife. Did he not carry through with his plans?" "He did, but I told him no." The words burned on her tongue as she was certain the poison Tak had used to end his life burned its way to his stomach. "It is not proper for me to become his wife. He is young and does not yet understand, but in time he will come to agree with me." "Do you mean because of the children?" Atiko asked. Atiko's question took her completely by surprise. The man never ceased to amaze her. Most men would find the conversation of women beneath them, and not even have thought to join in. Even though her children had nothing to do with her decision, it gave her a good reason to have said no. If luck remained with her, no one would ever have to know her true motives. "A man should not have to raise the children of someone like Fighting Beaver. No matter what his upbringing, Winter Moon is still his father's son. The blood that flows in his veins is that of a man with no honor." It surprised Mourning Dove to see tears reflected in the Spirit Woman's green eyes. "That, my dear, is a foolish myth that has survived for generations, even until the time when I was born. While some traits are passed from father to son, 141


behavior is learned. With the proper guidance, Winter Moon will grow into a fine young man." Mourning Dove looked at Atiko. She knew he and Tak had grown up in the same household with the same parents, yet they were entirely different. Tak had always frightened her, while Atiko made her feel completely at ease, even though she hardly knew him. A wail from one of the babies who slept in the lodge prompted Atiko to bring the child to his mother to nurse. When the child sucked contentedly, the other baby began to cry. Atiko again went into the lodge and appeared with a baby in his arms. Mourning Dove could not help but marvel at how one looked like the mirror image of the other. Having the children as the center of attention put Mourning Dove more at ease. It would be easy to change the subject that had seemed to revolve around her for far too long. "How do you tell them apart?" she asked, once both children nursed at their mother's breasts. Kit began to smile at the question about her sons. "Gray Squirrel has a small mark beneath his right eye while Prairie Dog has it under his left eye." Mourning Dove looked closely at the babies. If their mother had not pointed out the small mark, she would have missed it completely. "I do not know how you manage with two babies. One at a time was enough for me." "When I was in Hawk's village, Swift Doe and Prairie Flower were more than happy to help me. Here Atiko's 142


mother, Nakoma, helps me, as does my dear husband when his other duties do not detain him." Soon each of the children was satisfied with the nourishment they had received and drifted off to sleep. One by one Atiko took them back into the lodge so their slumber could be undisturbed. "How do you get your husband to help you with the twins?" Mourning Dove asked, still in awe of the fact that a shaman would do what most men considered woman's work. Kit laughed, the sound of it more like the wind in the trees than the hearty laughter shared by the men. "You must remember that I come from a different time and place. The men I knew helped with their children. When Atiko and I were captives in Hawk's village, Hawk allowed Atiko to stay with us after the twins were born. At the time, Atiko thought he would have no contact with his sons after the exchange was made. Since our marriage, he has continued to help me. I must say, it makes things much easier for me. I do feel sorry for him at times, as his friends have openly questioned his helping me. I think they feel it is beneath him, while Atiko looks upon it as an extension of his love for me and his sons." Mourning Dove could see how the thought of not being able to see his sons grow into men would prompt a man to be a more attentive father. "Both of our sons are sleeping contently," Atiko announced as he came out of the lodge. "That being the case, I will leave the two of you to talk of things that do not include a man. I need time to confer with my father." 143


When they were finally alone, the Spirit Woman brewed them each another cup of tea. "One of the reasons I wanted you to come for a visit was to ask for your assistance." Kit's comment shocked Mourning Dove. "What could I possibly do to help a Spirit Woman such as yourself?" "To begin with, I am not a spirit woman. I am but a woman who became caught in a crazy time warp. When you call me a spirit woman I tend to look around to see of whom you speak." "Then what would you prefer I call you?" "My name is Kit. Now, as for what you can do to help me, I need you to share your knowledge of the plants that grow in this area, as well as their uses to help the people. I know much of the future, but little of the nature that is all around us. I want to know which plants are good for which ailment and which makes the best teas to sooth an aching head, as I have suffered from what my people call migraine headaches in my other life." Mourning Dove pondered Kit's request. "I walk through the prairie and down by the creek each day. As I do, I pick the plants I know I will need and put them in my pouch to be dried and stored for future use. You are more than welcome to join me." Kit beamed at the invitation. It pleased Mourning Dove to think someone of this woman's importance would come to her with a request. Not quite certain if she should be the one to end the meeting, she looked up at the sun which was sinking low in the heavens. 144


"Oh dear," Kit declared, "it seems as though I have kept you far too long. You have children to consider and they will want their evening meal. Please come by and get me in the morning when you are ready to go for your walk. I am anxious to learn more so I can be of assistance to not only my family but to others who may require my help. The things you have been taught from childhood are the things I must struggle to learn as an adult." Mourning Dove looked at Kit's lodge. As she did, the thought of the babies who slumbered peacefully crossed her mind. "If you are worried about the boys, Nakoma will willingly watch them." "I am certain she would, but if you want to learn our ways, you must learn that a mother rarely leaves her children when they are so young. I would be honored to carry one of the babies in his cradleboard." "Your offer shames me. I should have asked you, but in my former life, it would have been impolite to impose upon one's friends. It will be a marvelous outing for the boys. Will your children accompany you?" "Little Butterfly goes with me and learns in the same way I learned from my mother. Winter Moon is a young brave, or so he thinks, and as such spends his time with the boys learning the skills of a man. It is a shame his father is not here to teach him." "Wildcat would be an excellent teacher. He is very good with children. I am certain he will make a good father. When 145


do you expect him to return to insist upon taking you to his village?" "He will not be returning. I know the ways of the twelve bands all too well. I would not be a proper wife for him, and I am certain his family has told him the same thing over the past days." "Why would you even think such a thing?" "A warrior of the twelve bands is expected to take a woman who is a virgin as his wife. Once he realizes the drawbacks of marrying a woman with two children, he will see that I am right." "I doubt that. Makisa told me that you recently lost a child. Does that have anything to do with your decision?" Mourning Dove thought of the child that she carried when Fighting Beaver had been killed. At the time she did not think anyone knew of the massive clots of blood she lost in one of her private moments in the forest. She had grieved the loss of the child and yet she was relieved not to have to think about giving birth to a child without the benefit of a husband. It had been for the best, but at the time she had cried bitter, lonely tears. "No. The child I lost was not to be. I am certain my dead husband would agree with me on that. He did not relish having more children. I feared for the life of the child once he learned of its existence. He was not a caring father by any means." "I am sorry to hear that. Please think about what I said concerning Wildcat. You could not find a better man to be a stepfather to your children." 146


As Mourning Dove made her way back to her lodge, she thought of the words of her new friend. Wildcat would, indeed make an excellent father. Although Winter Moon said little, she knew he missed Wildcat's attentions as much as she did. If her answer to his proposal of marriage had been different, she could already be enjoying the pleasure of his arms, and her children would have a father. You are being selfish. Wildcat is a good man. He should not have to try and explain the shortcomings of a wife such as you. It is best if you forget you ever met him. Although the voice that sounded within her head saddened Mourning Dove, she knew it was telling her only what was proper and right. Wildcat did deserve better than her. In time he would come to understand the prudence of her actions in rejecting him.

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Chapter 12 The sun was cresting the eastern horizon when Wildcat and Spotted Pony rode out of the village. Kicking Bear's encampment lay a good two-day ride to the south and east, so an early start seemed to be for the best. It was bad enough to have to spend one night in a cold camp on the trail. By getting started early they could avoid having to send a second night without the promise of protection from any storms that might arise. "It is good that Hawk insisted I accompany you," Spotted Pony said as they set an easy pace. "Even on this fool's mission, you need someone to keep you out of trouble." Spotted Pony's teasing bothered Wildcat. "Why do you call it a fool's mission? For that matter, when have I ever gotten into trouble?" "Why indeed. You are taking Mourning Dove's rejection far to seriously. Why would you want to pursue a woman who does not want you? I have heard many of the maidens bemoaning the fact that you do not even look in their direction. As for the trouble, it seems to find you. Do you not remember being held prisoner within Atiko's village, to say nothing of the stir you caused when you decided to enlighten the young braves of that same village with your stories?" "I do not look in their direction as they are not the woman I want. I plan to get answers from Kicking Bear about why Mourning Dove does not want me. It is not because she does not care for me, of that I am certain. And, as I recall, you 148


were also a prisoner. I also do not recall any stir about my stories. The fathers of those boys all agreed to them coming to me." Anxious to end their conversation, Wildcat kicked his horse in the sides to urge him to a gallop. Beneath Cloud Racer's hooves the prairie grass and delicate spring flowers were trampled. The crushed blades and petals gave off a scent that reminded Wildcat of spring. Not since he had been a young brave walking beside his mother had he smelled the grass and flowers so acutely. He could not help but wonder if it was the love he felt for Mourning Dove that made him appreciate nature more than he had in many seasons. That love had made him come alive, and at the same time thrust him into the depths of despair. If he could not find out the reason she denied him, he had no idea what he would do next. Ahead of him a small stream cut through the lush grass on the prairie. Reining Cloud Racer to a halt, he dismounted and cupped his hands in the water to quench his thirst. "I did not think I would ever catch up with you," Spotted Pony complained when he joined Wildcat on the bank of the stream. "Does the truth spook you so badly?" "I am not certain if it is the truth, or my love for Mourning Dove, that puts me on edge," he confessed. Wildcat rolled over on his back and stared up at the fluffy clouds that moved across the blue expanse above him. Within their shape he could see a mighty buffalo, as well as the deer that sustained life. He closed his eyes for only a moment. Behind his closed 149


lids, he could see the clouds change shape until he could see Mourning Dove's face, as well as her body, in them. It is not that I do not love you, her voice echoed in his mind. It is that I love you too deeply to bring shame upon you and your family. His body jerked, as mentally he tried to calm her, only to have the clouds drive to the east and disappear, silencing even her voice from his mind. The end of the dream brought him to full awareness. He wondered how long he had slept, since he felt completely refreshed. As he sat up the first thing he saw was Spotted Pony watching him intently. "Now I know it is a good thing that Hawk sent me with you. Never before have I seen anyone fall asleep so quickly when the sun was still high in the heavens. Rather than embarking on this journey, you should have sought out Serpent Wing's council." "There is nothing wrong with me," Wildcat snapped. "Have it your way, but I know you are hurting. You miss not only the woman but also her children. As much as it pains me to say this, I even miss Crying Coyote. Such feelings are new to me. I do know I cannot act upon them, as I have no feelings for his mother. To have a relationship with one without the other would be wrong." Wildcat could not help but smile. He had seen the bond grown between Spotted Pony and Crying Coyote from the moment his friend first hefted the boy to his shoulders at the blessing of the grazing grounds. It was truly a shame that Rushing Water did not gain Spotted Pony's attention for the 150


man would make a good father to the boy who needed more than his mother's love. When they returned from this quest, he would confer with Snapping Turtle to see if they could find a way that Spotted Pony could mentor the boy without having to marry the woman. **** On the second morning of their journey, Wildcat sensed they were close to Kicking Bear's village. After his first wild ride, they had taken their time, stopping often to enjoy the beauty of nature that surrounded them. "Before we reach Kicking Bear's village, we should scout the area for game," Spotted Pony suggested, breaking the silence that had settled between them since they finished their morning meal and started on their way again. "How is it that you know my thoughts? I, too, feel the need to go hunting. It would be an insult to Kicking Bear if we were to come into his village without gifts." Spotted Pony laughed at Wildcat's statement. "I think it is because we are as close as brothers. There is nothing that one thinks that the other does not also bring to mind." It took only a short while before the two friends began to look for signs of game. Overhead an eagle called and a hawk swooped low as it hunted for its own morning meal. It was a good sign. The hunting birds told them that the area was rich with wildlife. Since the first day, they had followed the lazy stream. Although they had seen numerous tracks along its banks, until now they had paid little attention. 151


The tracks of a small herd of deer brought excitement to both men. The trail led away from the stream only to be lost in the tall grass. Ahead of them was a small stand of trees that looked as though it would give the herd the protection needed in the heat of the day. Without saying a word, Wildcat and Spotted Pony approached the trees from opposite directions. As they did, Wildcat wished there were more hunters with them. It would be entirely possible that as they approached from the north and the south, the deer could run toward the east or the west. The grove of trees proved to be thicker than Wildcat anticipated. He picked his way through the dense underbrush until he saw a shaft of light ahead of him. Moving as silently as possible, he stopped short of stepping into the clearing. To his surprise the herd of animals before him was much larger than he thought from seeing their tracks leading from the stream. He smiled to see several nursing does, as well as an abundance of bucks and yearlings. He notched an arrow in his bowstring and, taking careful aim, he released the arrow. He no more than heard the thunk of the bowstring than his arrow found its mark. Before the animals could take frightened flight, a second animal fell to Spotted Pony's arrow. As soon as he stepped into the clearing, the herd bolted, leaving their fallen comrades behind. As custom dictated, Wildcat and Spotted Pony fell to their knees beside their kill. Before cutting out the liver, both men gave thanks to the 152


spirit of the deer for giving up their lives to the hunters' arrows. With that done, they began to gut the animals. Once the animals were ready to be transported, Spotted Pony went back to where their horses were hobbled. Wildcat watched as he headed back along the same trail he had used to get there. Even at a glance, he could see the path Spotted Pony had taken was much less overgrown than the one on the north side of the clearing. It would make transporting the meat much easier, as it would give good access to the horses. Wildcat used the moments of solitude to examine the deer that would serve as gifts for Kicking Bear. Both animals were young males in the prime of life. The meat would be sweet and tender. With such an offering, they should expect a warm welcome in Kicking Bear's village. His quiet contemplation ended when Spotted Pony returned with their horses. After securing the deer in front of them, they mounted and made their way out through the trees to the sea of prairie grass that ran alongside the creek. Long afternoon shadows were covering the land when they finally approached the village where Kicking Bear was chief. They smelled the smoke of the cooking fires long before they actually entered the encampment. As though from nowhere several warriors suddenly surrounded them with arrows notched in their bows and spears held ready to strike. "Who are you and why do you come to this village?" the apparent leader shouted. Wildcat's heart pounded as memories of being taken captive in Atiko's village dominated his thoughts. These are 153


not strangers. These are people with whom we spend the winters. As soon as they know who we are we will be in no danger. The voice of reason spoke to him, overriding the fear of being held captive, or worse yet, surrendering his life to these men. "We bring greetings from our chief, Hawk, to Kicking Bear," Spotted Pony said before Wildcat could find his voice. "We bring gifts of fresh game to your people," Wildcat added. "How do we know you are who you claim to be?" Defiantly, Wildcat held out his forearm to display the tattoo that had been done at the time of his manhood naming, to identify him as belonging to Hawk's branch of the twelve bands. In a similar gesture, Spotted Pony held out his arm as well. "Give us your weapons," the leader demanded. Reluctantly Wildcat handed over his bow, quiver and knife. A glance toward Spotted Pony told him his friend was doing the same. "Now, will you take us to Kicking Bear?" Wildcat inquired. Without another word passing between them, the warriors gathered up Wildcat and Spotted Pony's weapons and signaled that they should dismount. Leading their horses, they followed the men into the village. Kicking Bear met them in the center of the commons area. Wildcat trembled in the presence of the great chief. The man's stern expression softened as the light of recognition flickered in his eyes. 154


"Why do these men walk as prisoners? Although their names escape me, they are members of Hawk's people and therefore of the twelve bands. If I am not mistaken the deer that they carry are gifts for our people." "I do not fault your warriors," Wildcat said. "Security is important. I would be worried if we had not been challenged." One by one the men put down their weapons and backed away. A young boy came forward to take the lead ropes for the horses so that they could be relieved of their burden. Wildcat knew the boy would see to it that the animals were rubbed down and given water and good grazing, Kicking Bear motioned for Wildcat and Spotted Pony to follow him. When they arrived at the chief's lodge, at the far end of the village, he instructed his wives to bring refreshments for his guests. "Now, what brings you to our summer campground?" Kicking Bear asked once they were seated. "I am Wildcat, son of Two Ponies, and this is my friend Spotted Pony, son of Grey Wolf. We bring greetings from our chief, Hawk." Kicking Bear nodded. "I do recognize you from the winter gathering. With times the way they are, we cannot be too careful of who comes to our village." Kicking Bear's comment left Wildcat bewildered. "Have you had problems since your return from the winter campground?" The older man nodded for a second time. "We have had three raids on our horse herd." "Do you know who could be behind it?" 155


"There are two possibilities. The first is the people who reside to our south and east. We have never been on friendly terms, but we have never had any problems with them before." "You said there were two possibilities," Spotted Pony commented. "What is the second?" "Many winters ago, we were forced to banish two young men and those who followed them. Both my brother and I are certain Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk still harbor ill feeling against us. It does not seem logical that they would wait so long for revenge, but then anything is possible." The name of Fighting Beaver echoed within Wildcat's head. "Fighting Beaver is not responsible for this," he said. "How can you be so certain?" Kicking Bear demanded. "Do you know the man?" "Neither of us knew him, but we are certain because we know Fighting Beaver is dead," Spotted Pony answered. "Dead? By whose hand?" The look of shock on Kicking Bear's face was evidence that he did not think one as young as Fighting Beaver would be walking with the ancestors. "That is not important," Wildcat said. "Surely you must remember Atiko and the Spirit Woman?" "Did one of them take Fighting Beaver's life?" "No, he had begun to walk with the ancestors long before their return to Atiko's people. He lost his life because he and the other outcasts who had banded together provoked an attack by the warriors of Atiko's village. For this attack, Hawks' brother, Snapping Turtle, led Atiko's warriors. The widows and children of the fallen outcasts now reside in 156


Atiko's village. Among them is the widow of Fighting Beaver and her children." "Do you speak of Mourning Dove?" The older man's voice sounded more with malice than with concern. Wildcat nodded, his mind spinning. This will be easier than I anticipated. At least he knows of whom I speak, even if the sound of her name upon his lips is one of anger. "Is Winter Hawk dead as well?" Kicking Bear continued, not allowing Wildcat or Spotted Pony to verbally answer his question. "We did not hear his name mentioned when we were in Atiko's village. It is possible they parted company when they were banished from your midst. I heard the names of all of the outcasts, but not that of Winter Hawk." Kicking Bear waved his hand as though he had tired of their conversation. "The hour is late. We will speak more tomorrow. For now, I have many things that require my attention. Red Fox will see to your comfort." "You did not get to ask about Mourning Dove," Spotted Pony said, once the chief left them. "Kicking Bear does not rush into discussions about those who have betrayed him," the man they assumed to be Red Fox explained as he led them to the bachelor's lodge. "The woman called Mourning Dove was mentioned by Kicking Bear. He has not spoken her name since she left with Fighting Beaver. Is she alive and well?" Wildcat could feel jealous gall rising in his throat. "Since she has been banished from this village, I do not understand your concern." 157


"Mourning Dove is my sister. I speak not with concern for the woman, but out of respect for my mother. It is she who will be interested in my sister's welfare. Before Fighting Beaver won her heart, Kicking Bear wanted her as his second wife. Even as a virgin, it would have been a great honor, but she was already promised. She was not banished. Her husband was the one who was the outcast. She could have stayed and made a life for herself with Kicking Bear, but the child she carried would have been destroyed at birth, since it carried its father's blood." Wildcat's stomach churned at the thought of Winter Moon forfeiting his life because of his father's blood. Anyone who knew the child would think only the best of him. "Why was Fighting Beaver banished?" Spotted Pony asked, taking the question from Wildcat's lips and risking a nasty confrontation between the two men. "That is not for me to say. The decision belonged to Kicking Bear, as does the explanation. It matters not to me. What does matter are my sister and her child. Even though I agree with the decision of my chief and would not welcome her back in this village, she is still my sister. Her welfare is of great concern not only to me but also to my mother, Blue Sky." "Mourning Dove is well respected in Atiko's village," Wildcat explained. "Her skills with healing plants have earned her a place of honor and a permanent home for her children." "Children?" Red Fox questioned.

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"She has a fine son, Winter Moon and a beautiful daughter, Little Butterfly. To me, neither child seems tainted by their father's blood." "That is because you love her. I would ask your friend to give me his opinion." Red Fox's words came as a complete surprise to Wildcat. "How can you say I love her? You have only just met me." "The look in your eyes makes the assumption an obvious one. Now, I ask your friend to give me his opinion of Winter Moon and Little Butterfly." "Winter Moon is a fine boy. He will become a brave warrior and a good hunter, if someone takes the time to train him properly. He is considerate of his mother and seemed to be obedient." Red Fox stopped in front of them and scratched his head in bewilderment. "How can that be, considering his father is Fighting Beaver?" "From what Winter Moon's friend, Crying Coyote, tells me, Winter Moon's father often beat the boy without reason. He has neither the love nor the respect a child should have for his father. Mourning Dove has done a fine job of taking care of her son and teaching him to be a good person." Red Fox nodded, as though he would have expected nothing less of his sister. "What of the boy's sister?" "I know nothing of the child," Spotted Pony confessed. "She is but three winters old. At that age, it is hard to tell what kind of a woman she will become." Without comment Red Fox turned and walked away from them. 159


"For someone who is interested in his sister, I find his behavior quite strange," Wildcat commented. "Everything about this day has been strange. The reception we received was less than friendly. I fear there is more to the situation than three raids upon their horse herd." "I have that feeling as well. It also seems odd that Kicking Bear did not acknowledge our family connections. Something is definitely wrong in this village, although I have no idea what it could be." Wildcat kept his other thoughts to himself. Red Fox's attitude toward Mourning Dove bothered him more than he wanted to admit. While Spotted Pony went to check on their horses, Wildcat walked around the village. If he was lucky, he would find someone he knew from the winter campground. He was certain he would learn more from someone he knew and trusted, than from the people appointed to talk to him by Kicking Bear. "Wildcat, what are you doing here?" He turned at the sound of a familiar voice, to see Muskrat standing behind him. "It is good to see you again, Muskrat. We have come with greetings from Hawk. We never expected to be greeted as though we were enemies. How long have these raids on your horses been going on?" He prayed the innocent question would garner him an answer to the strange behavior of those in this village. Muskrat fell into step with Wildcat. "It is more than the raids on our horses. Seven nights ago one of the horses was killed and left gutted out, as I would gut a deer. It was a warning that we could all be killed in our beds. Since then, we 160


have doubled our guards, but even so one of our women disappeared while gathering berries. Her body was later found in the woods where she had died from having her throat cut. She was gutted just as was the horse. It was a grizzly discovery. Kicking Bear fears that Fighting Beaver has returned to seek revenge for being banished seven winters ago." Wildcat cringed at the mention of Fighting Beaver. It seemed as though everyone harbored a great fear of the man. "Why is everyone so concerned about Fighting Beaver? From what you just said, he has been gone for seven winters. That is a long time to wait for revenge." "When he and Winter Hawk were banished, they both swore revenge. I was only a boy, but I remember it as though it was yesterday." "Why were they banished?" Muskrat looked around, as though hoping no one would overhear their conversation. "We cannot talk here," he cautioned. "Come with me to the stream. In the open we will be less likely to be overheard." Wildcat followed his friend to the stream. When it was evident they were completely alone, Muskrat hunkered down to begin telling his story. "Many winters ago, Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk decided that Kicking Bear was too weak to be our leader. Slowly they incited many of our warriors to rise up against him. My own father was one of the men who joined forces with the two of them. The men were ready to fight, but Fighting Beaver took the coward's path, and along with 161


Winter Hawk, crept into Kicking Bear's lodge with the intent of cutting the throat of our chief." Wildcat gasped. It was no wonder these people lived in fear of Fighting Beaver. "What happened to save Kicking Bear's life?" "The gods were with Kicking Bear, as his bother, Red Sky, learned of the plot and alerted him to be on his guard. The night of the attack, Kicking Bear only pretended to be asleep while Red Sky waited within the lodge for it to happen. Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk were captured before they could carry out their plans. Everyone was shocked when Kicking Bear did not insist on an instant death sentence. Instead, he followed his brother's suggestion and insisted on a dual to the death. Everyone in the village watched as Kicking Bear and Fighting Beaver prepared to do battle." "Since Kicking Bear and Fighting Beaver are both alive, who was deemed the victor? I cannot believe either of them would have let the other live." "It was Kicking Bear. He and Fighting Beaver had been best friends, as well as blood cousins. As such, he could not stand the thought of taking Fighting Beaver's life. Instead, he surprised everyone by banishing Fighting Beaver from the village. Since Winter Hawk was as guilty as Fighting Beaver, he shared the same fate. Until we returned from the winter campgrounds this spring, we have had no problems from either of them. I fear the two of them have again joined forces and returned for the revenge they both must seek." "What do you mean have again joined forces? Were they not both banished? Did they not leave together?" 162


"When they left, Winter Hawk was angry with Fighting Beaver for allowing Kicking Bear to best him in the dual. At the time, Fighting Beaver went to the northwest while Winter Hawk rode away toward the south." Wildcat nodded. It was no wonder he had not heard the name of Winter Hawk mentioned among the dead in the village of the outcasts. "Did Winter Hawk take his wife with him?" "He was not married, only promised. At the time, his woman refused to accompany him. Fighting Beaver's wife could have stayed here, but she could not forfeit the life of her unborn child. It is a shame, for as I remember, she was a beautiful woman and Kicking Bear desired her as his second wife." In Wildcat's mind's eye he could see Mourning Dove. He needed no one to tell him of her beauty. "What happened to the other men who aligned themselves with Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk?" "They were given the choice of pledging allegiance to Kicking Bear and suffering whatever punishment he deemed proper, or being banished with their leaders. Only two of them stayed. It has taken many winters but they have finally regained their status. My father was one of those who chose banishment. I am certain he thought my mother would go with him. Instead she chose the protection Kicking Bear offered her. I have lived with the shame of my father's decision, and the pride of my mother's courage, for most of my life. Despite my father's treacherous actions I have become respected among my people. At the time there were 163


those who called for my death, but it was my mother who insisted that once my father was gone my life would not be tainted by him." Muskrat's anguish over his father's decision tore at Wildcat's heart. "Which man did your father follow?" "He went to the south with Winter Hawk. Until these raids began I thought him dead." The tone of Muskrat's statement bothered Wildcat. "Why do you think your father is involved in this?" "It is only a feeling I have. The woman who was killed was my cousin. She resembled my mother very closely. It is entirely possible my father saw her and thought her to be my mother. I am certain he wanted to try and persuade her to join him. When he realized his mistake he had to cover his error, so as not to be discovered by those in the village who still blame those who followed Winter Hawk." A group of young men approached them and Wildcat knew obtaining any further information would be out of the question. When they said they were forming a hunting party, Muskrat got to his feet to join them. "Will you come with us, Wildcat? I am told you learned much from Atiko over this past winter. Perhaps you could help us in the same way." Rather than intrude, Wildcat declined the offer. Instead, he made his way to the corral where his horse grazed with those of the warriors and hunters of the village. "Did you learn anything?" Spotted Pony questioned.

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"I met up with Muskrat. The things he told me were enough for me to decide that I do not want to leave Cloud Racer with the horses of the men of this village for the night." Spotted Pony nodded. "From what we heard from Kicking Bear earlier I have the same doubts. Do you expect another raid?" Wildcat took mental count of the number of horses in the corral. There were many fewer than when they had been together at the winter campground. It was evident that whoever was raiding the herd would not stop until they had depleted the village of its horses. "Not only do I expect another raid, but I fear there will be more violence. I noticed a small cave when we rode in. I think we would be wise to hobble our horses there for the night. I have good enough information to again confront Mourning Dove, and ask her to be my wife. I feel I understand her much better than I did before. Once we have rested for the night, we will return to our village. I plan to tell my parents of my plans. With or without their blessing, I will go to Snapping Turtle on the pretense of a visit. When I return, it will be with Mourning Dove at my side." **** Wildcat awoke to the thunderous sound of horses stampeding through the village, mixed with the shouts and cries of the villagers. Mingled with the sounds was the acrid smell of smoke. Not that of campfires, but different, as though buffalo hides were being burned. With their sleep so abruptly interrupted, Wildcat and Spotted Pony were 165


immediately on their feet to join the bachelors, whose lodge they shared, in hurrying outside. At the far end of the village two lodges blazed, giving the night sky an eerie glow. Frightened horses were diverted from their rush to leave the village by the frantic shouts of their owners. Above the sounds of chaos the wail of mourning sounded. Running toward the sound, Wildcat saw a young woman standing in front of a blazing lodge. "My baby!" she shrieked. "My baby is being burned to death." Without regard for his own safety, Wildcat ran into the lodge. Through the dense smoke, he finally located the child by listening to its frightened cries. Instinctively, he dropped to his hands and knees and crawled toward the sound of the crying. As he did, the smoke burned his eyes and seared his lungs. To his relief, his hand finally rested on the crying baby. Holding the child tightly to his chest, he turned around and started the slow process of retracing his steps. Once outside, he thrust the baby into its mother's waiting arms before collapsing in the dirt surrounding the burning lodge. **** A shaman's chant brought Wildcat back to the reality of conscious thought. Each breath caused incredible pain and his legs felt as though they were on fire. With great effort, he opened his eyes. When he did, he saw not only the shaman who did the chanting, but also 166


Kicking Bear, Spotted Pony and several other men to whom he could not put names. "Will he live?" Spotted Pony questioned. "He is awake. That is a good sign," the shaman replied. "Where..." Wildcat wanted to ask where he was, but saying only the one word took all of his breath and robbed him of his strength. Someone said something he could not hear as he slipped back into the sleep that dulled the pain he was feeling. The next time Wildcat awoke, breathing did not hurt so badly. Looking around, he saw only Spotted Pony sitting at his side. "You have returned to us," Spotted Pony said, as Wildcat forced his eyes to focus. "What happened?" The fact he was able to say the words without losing his breath was comforting. "There was a raid on the village. As the horses were being driven from the herd through the village, the intruders set two of the lodges on fire. If not for your quick thinking the child in one of the lodges that was burning would be walking with the ancestors. You have saved his life. He will praise your name throughout his entire life." "Those who..." a fit of coughing cut off his words. "Those responsible are like ghosts in the night. The horses ran through the village as though they were being chased by demons, yet no one from Winter Hawk's band drove them toward their destination. It is as though Winter Hawk has learned how to become invisible. Kicking Bear is even more suspicious of the man now, as two women were injured and a 167


child was killed. Had you not saved the baby, he too would walk with the ancestors. Once Winter Hawk's village is found, Kicking Bear has vowed that those responsible will pay for their actions with their lives." If the intruders were not seen, I wonder what makes Kicking Bear so certain they are from Winter Hawk's band? Who are his advisors? Are they telling him the truth? The pain overshadowed Wildcat's thoughts. "Why do my legs feel as if they are on fire?" The fact he could ask such a long question without gasping pleased him. "Your legs are badly burned. The shaman and healers are working hard to bring about a healing. I wish the Spirit Woman were here. If she were, she would know what to do." "Mourning Dove's mother is in this village," Wildcat gasped. "She will know what to do. I must see her." Spotted Pony looked at him strangely but did not verbally question his request. If anyone in this village would know which plants would hasten healing it would be Mourning Dove's mother. Had not Mourning Dove told him her mother taught her which plants were used to make powerful medicines and teas? Once Spotted Pony left his side, Kicking Bear took his place. "Your name will be sung around the campfires of our people for generations to come. I am pleased to number you among the members of my family. I have sent a rider to Hawk's village to tell him not only of your bravery, but also your injuries. Our shaman tells me you will heal, but it will take much time." 168


Wildcat nodded. He had not the strength left to answer. Even if he did, it would do him no good to protest the sending of a rider to Hawk's village. The deed had already been done. "What is this woman doing here?" Wildcat looked up at the question Kicking Bear asked. "Wildcat has requested my daughter's presence since he has heard of her expertise with making medicines and healing potions," the shaman replied. Kicking Bear nodded. "Blue Sky's abilities are well known within our village. I did not know they had spread beyond our people. Especially since the banishment of her daughter in disgrace." Wildcat looked up at the older woman. It was easy to see the resemblance between mother and daughter. "Leave us alone," Blue Sky requested. To Wildcat's surprise, both Kicking Bear and Spotted Pony left the lodge. "My son tells me you have word of my daughter and grandchildren. He also says you love her. Is that why you have come to this village?" Wildcat nodded. "Is she well?" Again he nodded. "Then she is not dead, as I was led to believe. What is it that you want me to do for you?" "I have been told that you know of the healing plants." Wildcat stopped to gasp for another breath. "I do not trust this shaman. Are the medicines he is using the correct ones?" 169


Blue Sky examined the dressings before she smelled and tasted the ointment. "My father can be trusted. This is one of the ointments that I have made. You should have no cause for concern. No one would ever cause you harm. The child you saved is Kicking Bear's youngest son by his second wife. He feels that the reason the two lodges at the far end of the village were set on fire is because they belong to his wives. Had you not been here the child would have walked with the ancestors before he had a chance to walk within his own village." Wildcat drifted off to sleep, contemplating her words. Serpent's Wing dominated his dreams. There are no accidents in this life, my son. Had you not gone on the raid, Snapping Turtle would not have spent the winter with his adopted people. If he had not been there, you would not have gone to make arrangements for the exchange. If you had not gone, you would not have met Mourning Dove. If she had not denied you, you would not have come to this village and saved the life of this child. The image of Serpent's Wing was replaced with the baby whom he had held close to his chest in an attempt to save his life. As though Wildcat could see the progress of the infant's life, he saw him as a child, a young brave, a talented hunter, a great warrior and finally as an old man with a war bonnet full of eagle feathers.

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Chapter 13 Mourning Dove was surprised when her early morning visitor was Snapping Turtle. "What brings you to my lodge? Is Makisa ill? Does Makisa need more medicines or teas?" "Makisa is well," Snapping Turtle replied once he accepted the tea she handed him. "I have come because of you. I am concerned because you are so sad." Mourning Dove swallowed hard. How could she admit she missed Wildcat more than she ever expected she would, when she was the one to send him away? "It is all of this rain. I am always sad when I do not see the sun for many days." Snapping Turtle took her hand in his as though holding her prisoner until she gave him the answer he wanted. "I fear it is more than what you are saying. Can you not tell me what troubles you so much?" Before she could reply there was a commotion in the village. The shouts of the children brought Snapping Turtle immediately to his feet. Shouts of "Hawk" caused him to let go of her hand and leave her lodge. Curiosity drew Mourning Dove outside as well. The early morning drizzle promised to turn to a heavy rain before evening fell. As soon as she stood in front of her dwelling, Hawk approached her. "Are you the woman they call Mourning Dove?" Hawk asked. Being singled out by a chief as great as Hawk made her tremble. "I am Mourning Dove," she declared. The words had 171


no more than passed her lips before her eyes focused on the man behind Hawk. "R-Red Fox," she stammered. "How did you find me?" Without giving her brother a chance to speak, Hawk stepped even closer. "May we enter your lodge so we can speak privately? What must be said is not for the ears of this entire village." Embarrassed by her lack of manners, Mourning Dove stepped aside so that the men could enter her home. She was relieved to think that Darma had come early to take Little Butterfly to play with her daughters. Winter Moon and his friends had gone off in search of childish adventures as well. She was certain the reason for her brother's journey to this village was nothing the children should hear. "Visitors are always welcome in my home. I will brew you some tea and bring you other refreshments. Your journey must have been long and hard considering the rain that has fallen for so many days. You must be tired and in need of nourishment." The three men seated themselves around her lodge fire, making her usually spacious living area seem small. None of them spoke until she served them tea and honey cakes. "Are you well, Sister?" Red Fox asked, speaking for the first time. "Yes, I am well. I need not ask of your welfare, but what of our parents?" "Our mother rejoices at your safety. Unfortunately, our father began his journey with the ancestors two winters ago." 172


Although her father had been considered to be one of the elders when she followed Fighting Beaver into banishment, she never thought he would be walking with the ancestors. The realization made her stomach knot in anguish and brought burning tears to her eyes. "We are not here to speak of family matters," Hawk said, his voice sounding with authority. "You must understand that my sister and I have not seen each other in over seven winters. There is much about the happenings in our village she does not know." "There will be time for such reunions later," Hawk declared. "For now there is the business of our visit to this village in such miserable weather." Mourning Dove put more tea on to steep so her guests would not be without refreshments. Once she finished her preparations, she seated herself between Snapping Turtle and Red Fox. "You have mentioned your trek in this rain. What does bring you to our village, Brother?" Snapping Turtle asked, breaking the tensions that could be felt between Hawk and Red Fox. "I am here because of Wildcat," Hawk declared. The look on his face was one of pain at speaking the name of Wildcat. The mention of the man who dominated her waking and sleeping thoughts brought Mourning Dove to full attention. Was it because of him that her brother had broken the silence of seven winters that had separated her from all of those she loved? 173


"Wildcat?" she questioned when she found her voice. "Did he not return to your village at the time of the exchange?" Mourning Dove's heart pounded within her chest. Something was terribly wrong. Where had Wildcat gone if not to Hawk's village? Would he have traveled to Kicking Bear's band and been attacked by the people she considered to be hers all of her life? "If you would give me a chance to continue, you would not have to ask such a question." The authority in Hawk's voice was replaced with annoyance. "Wildcat did return to our village, although I did not see him for many days after the exchange. When I finally did see him, I knew something weighed heavily upon his mind. As I questioned him, he said he had needed some time alone and had gone hunting, although he brought back little game with him. In our conversation he told me that he had asked you to become his wife. Is this true?" Mourning Dove wondered if she would be able to get any of the words she needed to speak past the lump of despair that filled her throat. "He did." The words burned on her tongue and threatened to choke her. "Did you tell him no?" Tears stung her eyes as she whispered her response. "I could not be his wife. He deserved better in a first wife than one such as me." "At least you thought with your head and not your heart, Sister," Red Fox said. "Your opinion was not requested Red Fox. I was addressing your sister and will continue to do so." Hawk's annoyance 174


now seemed to be turned toward Red Fox, although he continued to look at Mourning Dove. "Why would such a response come from your lips, when you knew he loved you without question?" "As I said, I am not the proper wife for a man like him. He deserves to be the first to know his wife as a man knows a woman. The children of his lodge should be his and his alone, not those of another man." "That is the same story he told me. I know what hearing those words did to him. I can understand his feelings, even though I am not a lovesick young man. As Wildcat's chief, I want a further explanation of your actions." Mourning Dove looked at her brother. The words she was about to speak were ones that would hurt him, as well as all of her people, but they could not be changed. Taking a deep breath she began to say the words that had remained silently within her mind for too long. "By the laws of the people of the twelve bands, a man's first wife must be a virgin. As a widow with two children, my virginity is gone and can never be regained. Has not my brother told you of Fighting Beaver's banishment? At the time, I had little choice but to follow him. Had I stayed with my people, Winter Moon's life would have been ended as soon as he emerged from my womb. If that were not enough, when my husband could not find game, he stole into the den of our brother the bear and took the life of one of them while it spent the long winter in sleep. I am shamed to say I cooked and ate the meat rather than starve. To my people, I am as dead as I should be to Wildcat." 175


To Mourning Dove's despair, Red Fox refused to meet her gaze while Hawk's cold stare chilled her heart. "Did you explain any of this to Wildcat?" Hawk finally asked. Mourning Dove shook her head, unable to form the words for the proper answer this great chief deserved. "I thought not. I sent him to Kicking Bear's village to learn the reason for your denial of his proposal." "There has been trouble in our village," Red Fox said, reaching for Mourning Dove's hand. "Since our return from the winter campground, there have been many raids upon our horses. After one of the raids, a young woman was killed while she was gathering berries. Kicking Bear blamed Fighting Beaver until Wildcat and Spotted Pony arrived to tell him that Fighting Beaver now walked with the ancestors." "How could Kicking Bear think that Fighting Beaver would return to his village?" Mourning Dove gasped. "When we left it was in disgrace. We would have never returned to those who thought us dead. Just who is spreading such evil rumors about us?" "Allow me to finish, Sister. The rumors, as you call them, were formed in Kicking Bear's mind, out of fear for our people. He accused not only Fighting Beaver but also Winter Hawk. Now he is certain that Winter Hawk is behind all of it. On the night that Wildcat and Spotted Pony arrived in our village there was another raid. This time they set fire to the lodges of both of Kicking Bear's wives. Had it not been for Wildcat's bravery, Kicking Bear's infant son would have given his life to those flames. Although our men tried to capture 176


those responsible, they are like the spirits and disappeared before we could follow them. In their wake they left two of our young women injured, and a child to begin his walk with the ancestors." The thought of the destruction caused by Winter Hawk and his men sickened Mourning Dove. She remembered the young man as one of Fighting Beaver's close friends. How could he have caused death to women and children? "What of Wildcat?" Instead of the words coming from her lips it was Snapping Turtle who voiced the question she could not find the courage to ask. "He was badly burned. When I left for Hawk's village to tell him what had happened, it was unknown if he would ever wake up." Mourning Dove began to sob. What had happened to Wildcat had been her fault. If she had not felt herself unworthy of him, if she had not allowed her pride to keep her from going with him to his village, they would have been married, and he would have had no reason to go to see Kicking Bear. The thought no more than crossed her mind than another replaced it. If Wildcat had not been in the village of her birth, Kicking Bear's youngest child would not be alive. Why did the gods choose to sacrifice a man with Wildcat's abilities for an unproven child? "How long will it take you to be packed to leave for Kicking Bear's village?" Mourning Dove jerked up her head at Hawk's question. Could she return to the village of her birth and not fear for 177


her own life? She knew the answer as soon as the question formed in her mind. For Wildcat, she would make any sacrifice necessary. "I will ask Darma if she will care for Little Butterfly. I am certain Rushing Water will be willing to take Winter Moon into her home while I am gone." "I, too, am going," Snapping Turtle declared. "Wildcat is my best friend. I must be at his side, as he was at mine when I went to the exchange with the intention of not returning to my own people." "All of this could be done without reason," Red Fox warned. "As I said, when I left, no one knew if he would ever wake up again." Mourning Dove closed her ears to her brother's words. In an attempt to block out the ugliness of what could easily be the truth, she began preparing for the journey she swore she would never make. The first place she went was to Darma's lodge. Once her friend had promised to take care of Little Butterfly, Mourning Dove went on to ask Rushing Water to look out for Winter Moon. Although she knew she should be attending to the men who still sat at her fire, she did not return to her home until she was certain her children would be well cared for and safe. By the time she returned, the men had already packed the horses and were waiting for her. Also waiting at her lodge were Kit and Atiko. Kit's eyes were filled with tears, making their green depths sparkle like dew on the springtime prairie grass. 178


"Take good care of Wildcat," Kit said as she embraced Mourning Dove. "He is a very special young man." "I do not know what good I can do," Mourning Dove replied. "From what my brother has told me, Wildcat could already be walking with the ancestors. I only know I must go to him. Even if I am not welcomed in Kicking Bear's village, I have to be there. If I do not return, please see that my children do not forget me." Kit held her at arm's length. "Why would you not return to us? This is your home." "As I said, I may not be welcomed in Kicking Bear's village, even with the protection of my brother. When I made the choice to follow Fighting Beaver, rather than stay with my family, I became as much of an outcast as he. To the people in Kicking Bear's village I am dead. I do not know how they will feel about my return. They may want my life in exchange for what Fighting Beaver did so many winters ago. If they do, there is nothing that can be done to stop that which they feel is only right and proper." "Your parents and friends will be excited to see you. I just know they will." Mourning Dove verbally agreed with Kit, even though she knew differently. When she left the village with Fighting Beaver, it was to save the life of Winter Moon. Had she stayed, her child would have been taken from her at birth and abandoned in the forest or drowned in the stream, because of the blood of his father. The thought of Winter Moon walking with the ancestors moments after his birth distressed her. Without her son she would have willed herself to die as well. 179


If she returned to her people, would they demand the lives of her children in exchange for acceptance? If they did, she would fight to the death to protect them. "It is time to go," Red Fox said as he handed the rope of the horse he led to Mourning Dove. "If we leave now we can cover much of the distance separating this village and that of our people." Mourning Dove agreed. The journey would be a long and painful one for her to make. If it were not for Wildcat, she would have gladly remained dead to her family. By returning, she was putting her life, and those of her children, in danger. Even in light of those thoughts, she could do nothing but rush to the side of the man she had come to love. After telling her children to be good and kissing them good-bye, she mounted her horse and prepared to begin the journey that would take her not only to Wildcat's side, but also to the people she once called family. There would be no joyous reunion with family and friends. They would tolerate her only because of the bravery of Wildcat. Once he regained his strength, her presence in the village would no longer be needed. Then, and only then, she would return to her children and build a life for them within Atiko's village. **** By nightfall every bone in Mourning Dove's body ached. They had stopped long enough to water the horses at midday and had ridden steadily ever since. For the men, long hours on horseback came naturally. For her, the forced ride was agony. Unlike her companions, her legs ached from grasping 180


the belly of the horse. Men, she decided, were much better suited for riding long distances than were women. A grove of trees next to a stream of fresh water was the stopping point for the night. The bed of fresh grass and pine needles that Mourning Dove fashioned reminded her of the many nights she had spent in the open before Fighting Beaver aligned them with the village of the outcasts. Those had been hard days. Without the skins to make a lodge, they spent their nights in the open, or in the caves that offered protection from the weather, but were dark and damp. It was in one such cave that Winter Moon had been born. They had stayed there until spring brought warm breezes and sweet grass. In order to claim the cave as their own, Fighting Beaver had slit the throat of the sleeping she bear. Even though such an act defiled all of her upbringing, Mourning Dove had cooked the meat to sustain them throughout the long winter. With the meat the bear provided, she was able to produce the milk necessary to feed her baby. "Do you have the fire ready?" Red Fox asked. Mourning Dove brought her mind back to the present. The fire was indeed ready and the rabbits Red Fox handed her would soon be roasting over it. As she put them on the spit, she could almost smell the delicious aroma that they would produce. "Why did you come for me?" Mourning Dove asked as she tended the meat. "You are my sister, and the man who lies in our grandfather's healing lodge loves you. He saved the life of Kicking Bear's son. I did not plan to come for you. I thought 181


only to go to Hawk's village and take him news of what had happened to Wildcat. As the man's chief, it was only right that he should be told the fate of one of his people. It was Hawk who insisted we come here. He said Wildcat needed you and Snapping Turtle with him. Had it been up to me, I would not have come to your lodge." Mourning Dove turned from her brother. He had made it clear that she was unwelcome in his presence. This journey was wrong. As soon as she could be alone with either Hawk or Snapping Turtle, she would tell him she could not go on. When the sun crested the horizon, she would return to the village and take her children far away from anyone who could do them any harm. "What troubles your mind?' Snapping Turtle asked. Mourning Dove looked up to see him standing beside her at the stream where she had gone to wash the grease from the rabbit off her hands. The words that she knew must be spoken forced their way from her lips. "I am planning to return to your village at first light." In the light of the moon she could see his expression. It was one of not only surprise but also disbelief. "Why?" His one word answer tore at her soul. As much as she wanted to be with Wildcat, she knew she had no right to do so. "For the same reason I told Wildcat I could not become his wife. I am an outcast among my people. As such, I would bring disgrace upon him within his own village." Snapping Turtle put his hands on her shoulders and forced her to look into his eyes. "Do you love him?" 182


A lump of despair formed in her throat, threatening to keep her words from being spoken. Unable to allow her eyes to meet his any longer, she lowered her head, as though the things she had to say would shame her. "I cannot lie. From the moment I first saw him my heart swelled with love. It is best if I forget he ever existed. Tell him it is for the best. Convince him to find a proper wife." "What of you and your children?" "We will live a solitary life. It is summer. I will take down our lodge and find a place where we will bring disgrace upon no one. Wildcat will forget about me. If things were different, I would leave Winter Moon with him to be raised. My son deserves better than a mother who is dead to her own people, and the stigma of the blood of his father that runs through his body." For a moment the words hung on the air, putting a barrier between her and Snapping Turtle. From behind them a man's voice shattered the silence. "What is this you are saying, woman?" Mourning Dove turned at the sound of Hawk's voice. She had not heard him come up behind her. She wondered if she had been so lost in her thoughts of Wildcat and her declaration to Snapping Turtle that she had not been attentive enough to what was going on around her. Rarely had anyone ever been able to sneak up on her unheard before. "My own brother has confirmed that I am not welcome in the village of my birth. You are of the twelve bands. Surely you must understand my fears." 183


"I understand nothing of this situation," Hawk said. In the dwindling light of the evening, she could see his fists clutched in anger as he tried to comprehend her meaning. "Perhaps your brother can explain the things that cause you to speak such nonsense to me." Taking hold of Mourning Dove's arm, he guided her back to where they were camped. At their return Red Fox got to his feet. "I want to know what has transpired between you and your sister since we camped," Hawk demanded. "What have you told her to make her want to take her children and leave the village of my brother?" "I only told her the truth. Her husband tried to murder our chief as he slept. She was given the opportunity to stay in our village when her husband was banished, and she chose a traitor over her own family." "I was given no choice!" Mourning Dove shouted. In doing so, she knew she had overstepped the bounds of what was proper for a woman, but she no longer cared. "What choice was there, when I was told that in order to stay I must forfeit the life of my son as soon as he was born? I am not a monster to sacrifice a child for my own happiness." The expression on the faces of Hawk and Snapping Turtle were ones of horror. "How could you make such a demand on your own sister?" Snapping Turtle asked, his voice laced with anger. "It was not I who made the demands upon her. It was the will of our people. They suffered greatly at the hands of Fighting Beaver. We wanted no reminder of him left in our 184


village. The child she carried had Fighting Beaver's blood flowing within his body. We could not take the chance of having that viper's spawn within our midst." "Then I am sorry for you," Snapping Turtle said. "I know Winter Moon, as well as Little Butterfly. I can only pray the child my wife carries in her belly is as considerate and polite as these children. Regardless of what she says or your wishes, she will accompany us to your village. If anything should happen to her while we are there, I will hold you responsible. All of the twelve bands will know how those in Kicking Bear's village treat women and children." "I do not fear you. Your position is of no consequence to me, as you have denied your heritage and aligned yourself with a people not of the twelve bands." "Then fear me," Hawk interjected. "As one of the twelve chiefs, I have the authority to destroy anyone who harms or shuns this woman. Since she is important to one of my people, she is equally important to me. Believe me when I tell you that Kicking Bear and I will sit in council about this matter, and he too will know of my feelings about her treatment." Mourning Dove relaxed. She had never expected anyone of Hawk's status to defend her. For the first time since that fateful night when she and Fighting Beaver left their village, she had hope for the future. Even though her own people would never respect and accept her, she knew she would be welcomed within Hawk's village. If the gods would allow Wildcat to live, she would spend the rest of her life as his wife, making him happy and guaranteeing a place for her 185


children among the people of the twelve bands.

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Chapter 14 Wildcat alternated from the pain of being awake to the bliss of sleep. The only thing he found to alleviate the pain was the ointment that Mourning Dove's mother, Blue Sky, applied to his legs. As soon as she put it on, she would make him drink a tea that made him sleep With sleep came dreams. Sometimes they were of Mourning Dove and the children, and other times they were of his childhood adventures with Snapping Turtle and Spotted Pony. Those dreams, although not always pleasant, were preferable to the ones where he walked with the ancestors. When he was given glimpses of the afterlife, he met with his grandfather, Tall Tree, as well as Snapping Turtle's uncle, Sly Coyote. Although the content of the dreams faded when he awoke, Wildcat knew those who had gone before him were telling him important things. At those times, Wildcat knew he walked the thin line between life and death. He knew he had to be careful, or he would join Tall Tree and Sly Coyote before it was time for him to do so. "He is so pale. Are you certain he is still alive?" Wildcat knew his mind was playing tricks on him. Mourning Dove was not at his side. It was not her hand that pressed against his brow. To end the hallucinations, he forced himself to go back to sleep, where dreams were less painful than reality. **** 187


As soon as they had ridden into the village, Red Fox took Mourning Dove to the lodge where Wildcat fought for his life. To her horror, he lay as still as death, his legs red and blistered. Upon seeing the damage done to his magnificent body by the fire, she swallowed down the gall rising in her throat. This was no time to allow her body the weakness of sickness at the sight of the man she loved. "Mourning Dove, is it really you?" Blue Sky's question came as a surprise. In the dimly lit lodge, Mourning Dove had not seen her mother sitting in the shadows. "It is I, Mother." She could not help but remember Red Fox's admission that since her banishment her mother had lived in disgrace. She was certain such treatment had hastened her father's journey to walk with the ancestors. "I cannot believe either the healers, or my grandfather, would allow you to care for Wildcat." "I could hardly believe it myself. When this first happened, this young man asked for me to come and tend to his burns. He said he did not trust the healers and wanted me to make certain they were using the correct ointments. I have hardly left his side since. He fights the spirits that would take him to walk with the ancestors. When these times happen, my voice seems to calm him. Perhaps he thinks it is you who sits by his bed and tends to the burns that are so terribly painful. It is evident that he loves you so very much. Why else would he come all this way to find out why you were banished from our village?" Mourning Dove could not stop the tears that were spilling from her eyes. "I was afraid that when I arrived he would 188


already have begun his walk with the ancestors. Now that I am here I find things are much worse than death. Do you think he will be able to walk again? If not, I am afraid he would prefer the journey that was denied him." "Anything is possible. I am told he loves you. I think he fights for life in order to return to your side. Do you love him? If you do not, it would be for the best if you did not even make your presence known to him." "Oh, Mother, I love him more than I ever thought it possible to love a man. When I feared he was lost to me and walked with the ancestors, my heart felt as though it would break. I did not have such feelings when Fighting Beaver was killed. The only thing I felt was relief at no longer having to endure his beatings." "I have heard many stories, including one that says he asked you to become his wife. In that story I heard that you denied him. Is this so?" Mourning Dove cried even harder as she confirmed her mother's accusations with a nod of her head. How could what she had thought to be so right only a short time earlier, have caused the man she loved so much pain? "I can understand your reasoning. What I do not understand is why your brother sought you out. I was told he went to Hawk's village to tell him of what had befallen Wildcat." Mourning Dove knew she would have to choose her words well. It was evident that their mother knew of the hatred Red Fox harbored against her. "Hawk's brother has allied himself with the people that took me and my children in after Fighting 189


Beaver's death. Snapping Turtle is Wildcat's best friend, and Hawk insisted he should come along to bring comfort to Wildcat. It was Hawk who demanded my presence as well. At one point during our journey, Hawk and Red Fox clashed over his treatment of me. Hawk has guaranteed my safe return to my children, and swears he will hold Red Fox accountable for my safety." "You must know you took the chance of losing your life by returning to this village," her mother cautioned. "As they say, love conquers all fears. It took a brave woman to make this journey, even with the protection of one as powerful as Hawk." Mourning Dove's heart sank. Although her mother took good care of Wildcat, she still harbored the same hatred that had sent Mourning Dove away seven winters earlier. Mourning Dove could not blame her mother, but the truth in her eyes still hurt. Even though Mourning Dove had mentioned her children, her own mother had not inquired about them. It mattered not what her mother thought of her, but for Winter Moon and Little Butterfly to be denied a grandmother's love tore at her heart. Rather than dwell on the past, and the things from the present that could not be changed, Mourning Dove turned her attentions to Wildcat. More than the burns on his legs the paleness of his skin concerned her. "He is so pale. Are you certain he is still alive?" she asked. Unable to restrain herself, she put her hand to his forehead. He moved in his sleep, assuring her he did not walk with the ancestors. 190


Silently, she gave thanks to the gods that she was not too late. Everything she had ever heard about healing told her if he had survived this long, his life, more than likely, had been saved. Mourning Dove turned to continue her conversation with her mother only to find she sat alone in the healing lodge. Weary from her long journey, she pillowed her head on her arms and rested upon the bed of furs that cradled Wildcat's burned body. Dreams soon consumed her subconscious. In them, Wildcat walked toward her, his legs smooth and unscarred. He held her close and whispered words of love, until Red Fox tore her from his embrace. Bitter tears stung her eyes as the nightmare ended and she drifted into a deep sleep. **** Hawk and Snapping Turtle watched as Mourning Dove went into the healing lodge. "Why must we wait outside while Mourning Dove is allowed to go in to be with him?" Snapping Turtle asked. "I have no answers for you, Brother. The only thing that I can think about this situation is that our friend is very ill. The fact that he still draws breath must be our comfort." Snapping Turtle followed his brother' lead and seated himself on the ground outside the teepee. The reception they had received was not at all what he had expected it would be. If the sentries had seen them, the fact that Red Fox rode with them had allowed their entry to the encampment without challenge. As soon as they arrived and were escorted to the 191


healing lodge, Red Fox left them alone. Since then, no one had offered them refreshments. A young boy had taken their horses to be cared for but that was the extent of the hospitality extended to them. Snapping Turtle ached for his brother. As a hunter, he expected no different treatment, but Hawk was a respected chief among the twelve bands. As such, he should have been greeted by Kicking Bear and offered a place to rest and be refreshed. An older woman came from the healing lodge, causing Snapping Turtle to come to full attention. Her resemblance to Mourning Dove was so close she could be none other than Blue Sky, the mother of Mourning Dove and Red Fox. She stopped when she recognized Hawk. "Your presence will be of great comfort to your friend," she said in greeting. "It is a sign of a great chief who is willing to travel so far to be with one of his people in a time such as this." "What can you tell us of Wildcat's condition?" Snapping Turtle asked, all the while knowing it was not his place, but his brother's, to pose such a question. "My father, Black Cloud the shaman, says that he will live, although he slips from sleep to awareness for only short periods. My ointments are helping his legs to heal, but it will take time to know if he will gain the strength necessary to return to his former life. I think this is his punishment by the gods for having feelings for my daughter." "How can you say such a thing?" Hawk demanded. 192


Blue Sky's features hardened and her eyes turned cold with the resentment she surely felt for her daughter. "I say it because it is true. Mourning Dove chose Fighting Beaver over her family seven winters ago." "She chose life for her unborn child, over a death sentence that was brought on by the revenge sought against his father," Snapping Turtle shouted. "And what did the life of that child cost her? Her husband had tainted her in the eyes of all those of our village and for what purpose? He no longer provides for her and she has been left to care for her children alone. What kind of life can this boy expect without a father's guidance and teaching? What kind of a match can this girl make without a father to negotiate for her? My daughter would be better off dead." Hawk got to his feet. Before he could vent the anger Snapping Turtle could see building behind his brother's eyes, the sound of many approaching riders interrupted him. Snapping Turtle immediately recognized Kicking Bear at the head of the group. With him were many hunters and warriors, including Red Fox and Spotted Pony. Once the horses stopped, both Kicking Bear and Spotted Pony dismounted and hurried to greet Hawk and Snapping Turtle. "It is good to see you Hawk," Kicking Bear said, grasping Hawk's forearm. "I did not expect one as great as you to come to our village." "What did you expect me to do? Did you think I would not come to see for myself the condition of one of my people, especially one who is as close to me as my own brother?" 193


Kicking Bear said nothing but looked questioningly at Snapping Turtle. "I requested the presence of my brother as well," Hawk continued. "Snapping Turtle and Wildcat have been friends since they were strapped to their mother's cradleboards. They are as close as any brothers, closer than most. It is his place to be here." "You are both welcome," Kicking Bear said. "With all of the unrest in the village I anticipated visitors from your people. I thought the family of Wildcat would make the journey to be by his side. At the time, I thought they would have to prepare his body for his funeral, but his will to live is great. I have instructed our people to erect a lodge for the comfort of our guests. It awaits you as soon as you are ready to take your rest from your long journey." "There is a woman with us as well," Hawk advised their host. "Do you have accommodations for her?" "I know of whom you speak. She is not welcome in this village. Unless she sleeps in the healing lodge, I cannot guarantee her safety." "I will not argue with you at this time. My brother and I are weary from our journey. When we are refreshed we will discuss this again. I also expect the woman to be brought food and sleeping furs." Hawk turned to leave, but Snapping Turtle stopped him. "I will go in and see Wildcat for myself, before we seek the comfort of the lodge that has been prepared for us."

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Hawk nodded. Snapping Turtle knew his brother watched as he stepped into the teepee where Wildcat fought for his life. Once inside, Snapping Turtle blinked several times to allow his eyes to adjust to the dim light. As they did, he saw Wildcat asleep on the sleeping furs next to the fire. Seated next to his friend was Mourning Dove, her head pillowed on her arms, her body relaxed in sleep for the first time since this nightmare began. Being careful not to disturb either of them, Snapping Turtle studied Wildcat for a long moment. Although his breathing sounded raspy, it was even. A glance toward Wildcat's legs made Snapping Turtle's stomach roil. Large burn blisters had broken, exposing the raw flesh that Snapping Turtle knew lay beneath the surface of everyone's skin. Afraid his stomach might rebel, Snapping Turtle turned and left the lodge. Once outside, he hurried away from the entrance, as well as from his brother, so as not to embarrass himself when he lost the contents of his stomach. Sinking to his knees, he wretched until his entire body ached. Hawk's hand on his shoulder caused him to look up into the face of his brother. "The gods were not merciful in allowing him to live," Snapping Turtle said. He knew his voice sounded raspy, as the acid of the vomit seemed to have burned all the way from his stomach to his mouth. "The gods have their reasons. I, more than anyone, have learned that. There was a reason you stayed behind to insure Atiko's safe return, and there is a reason for this as well. It is 195


not something we can see right now, but it will be evident in the future. Come with me to the place where we can rest." Snapping Turtle allowed his brother to help him to his feet and guide him toward the lodge that had been erected for the use of the visitors. As he did, he worried not only about Wildcat's recovery, but also for Mourning Dove's safety.

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Chapter 15 Wildcat could feel the pain of awareness returning to his body. For the first time he welcomed it. Without such pain he could easily walk with the ancestors. At least breathing no longer made his chest burn. A weight against his bed told him someone slept next to him. From the even breathing he decided it must be a woman. The possibilities swirled around his mind like the winds of a summer storm. For days Blue Sky had cared for him, but had never slept beside him, as though to move further away would cost him his life. With great effort Wildcat raised himself up on one elbow for a better look at the woman who slept beside him. As he did, she stirred and moved her head so he could see her face. All thought of having dreamed Mourning Dove's presence disappeared. From the pain he felt, he knew he was wideawake. Mourning Dove was as real as the pain. With her at his side none of what he'd endured mattered. Mustering all his strength he raised his hand to stroke her hair. His fingers barely touched her head, when she came to full awareness. "You are awake. Is there something I can get for you?" Before she could say anything more, or even make a move, he ran his hand across her cheek. "Having you by my side is enough. I sensed your presence earlier, but decided it 197


must be yet another dream brought on by the pain, and my desire to have you near me." "Do you remember what happened?" Wildcat shook his head. "I only remember that which I have been told and what I have seen in my dreams." "What you did was very brave. Your name will be sung among my people for many generations to come. I can only pray that my presence at your side does not taint you in the eyes of Kicking Bear." "You could never taint me. I came here because of you and your presence at my bedside tells me you came because of me. When I am again whole, I will repeat my proposal of marriage." A fit of coughing made further conversation impossible. Even so, he did not miss the tears that sparkled in her brown eyes. In order to regain his strength, he lay back against the furs that had cradled his body for longer than he cared to remember. The bliss of sleep tried to embrace him, but he fought the urge to give in to it. With Mourning Dove by his side the time for sleep was past. It had been replaced by the need to heal. He could not ask her to share his life when he lay flat on his back as helpless as an infant in its mother's cradleboard. Her hand beneath his neck, lifting him to a sitting position, brought a smile to his lips. As soon as he opened his eyes, he saw she held a steaming cup of tea. "This will help with the pain and keep you alert. I brought the mixture with me. It is one that I have found works very 198


well. Once you drink it, the stew my mother left will be warm enough for you to eat." He thought of the times her mother had urged him to eat. At those times the depths of despair had robbed him of his will to take the nourishment needed to prolong life. The woman he loved had denied him, and his injuries threatened to send him to walk with the ancestors. With such thoughts weighing heavily on his mind, the desire to live had deserted him completely. For the first time since this thing had happened, his stomach growled in anticipation of eating something other than healing teas. He did not even protest when she spooned the rich stew into his mouth. The venison was so tender he hardly had to chew it. He couldn't help but wonder if it could be from one of the deer he and Spotted Pony had brought as a gift to Kicking Bear's people. The animals they had brought were young and well fed. They could indeed have produced such tender meat. The more he ate, the more he craved. Although he wanted to eat more to satisfy Mourning Dove, he found his stomach would hold no more than half a bowl. "No more," he said, putting his hand on hers to emphasize his point. "You have eaten enough," she replied. "Now I will tend to your legs." Wildcat cringed at her suggestion. Blue Sky had tended to his legs over the past days and the experience had been extremely painful.

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Mourning Dove saw Wildcat shudder. She knew what must be done would be painful. She wondered if her mother ever cared for such severe burns before. Three summers earlier one of the men in the village of the outcasts had been caught in a prairie fire. She had used the ointments she'd learned to make from her mother to no avail. It was then that an old woman had come to her in a dream. The combinations of herbs she suggested had worked wonders. Where her mother's ointment had only soothed the pain, the new mixture brought on a healing of the raw flesh. It was one of the things she had packed in preparation for the journey. Rather than try to reassure Wildcat that her treatment would be beneficial, she got up to bring some clean water from the stream. "As soon as I fill this bowl with fresh water I will return and we will begin. I will be as gentle as possible, for I know the pain you must be feeling." Being inside for so long, she had lost track of time. Instead of the bright sunlight of midday, she was greeted by the long shadows of early evening. In the distance a drum beat out a rhythm while singers gave voice to the songs she remembered from her childhood. Since the healing lodge was far from the center of the village, she could listen to the songs without bringing disgrace to any of her former family members or friends. "Have I given you enough time with the young man?" The question came as a surprise, as she thought herself to be completely alone. 200


She turned at the sound of Black Cloud's voice. He looked no different than she remembered. "I was going to the stream for some cool water. While I have been gone, I have learned of a new combination of herbs to treat burns. I brought them with me and am getting ready to use them on his legs." "I fear he is far too weak for me to allow you to try anything new. He has eaten no more than a spoonful of broth at a time since the fire." Mourning Dove could not help but smile. "For me he ate not only one spoonful of stew but he finished half a bowl. I love him and..." she left the remainder of her words to trail off unspoken. The old man would undoubtedly question Wildcat's love for her. "And he loves you," Black Cloud said. "In his dreams he speaks of, and to, you. I have been told he came here to find out why you turned down his proposal of marriage. I too question such a thing." "You, of anyone, have knowledge of the circumstances surrounding my departure from this village." "You know I do. From what I am told, Fighting Beaver walks with the ancestors. I am also told he beat you and your children. That is no way to treat the only person to remain loyal to him. Even so, do you not need the protection this young man offered you?" "I am respected in the village of Atiko and the Spirit Woman. For me, it must be enough. As my grandfather you know I will never be accepted by anyone from the twelve bands." 201


"As my granddaughter, I have ached for your banishment. These young men who have come to the village have said nothing but good things concerning you and your children. It saddens me to never be able to meet them." "Perhaps someday you will travel to the village of Atiko and meet them. For now, I must go to the stream." It did not surprise her when he fell into step with her. As her shaman he had been someone to be revered. As her grandfather, he had been loving and supportive of the things her mother taught her. "I am pleased to think that you have built upon the knowledge Blue Sky has instilled in you. Had you been born a boy rather than a girl, you might have been trained as a shaman. I have had many visions of you. It matters not what village you call home, you are destined to become a great healer. It is a status I prayed your mother would achieve, but it was not to be." "Oh Grandfather, for once I am afraid your visions have betrayed you. I can mix the plants and herbs to make medicines, but I am not a healer." In response the old man merely laughed softly. Mourning Dove could not help but wonder what the gesture meant. At the healing lodge Snapping Turtle and Hawk awaited her. "May we go in with you and see Wildcat?" Hawk asked. Mourning Dove's first instinct was to say no, for she jealously guarded her time with Wildcat. Instead she nodded her reply. Hawk and Snapping Turtle had defended her to Red Fox and been nothing but kind to her, even though they knew the full extent of her disgrace. 202


"I must treat his legs. Perhaps your presence will take his mind from the pain that must be inflicted in the process." Hawk held open the door flap so she could enter. If Wildcat had been asleep, it was not evident. She smiled as Hawk and Snapping Turtle seated themselves on either side of Wildcat. With both of them talking to him she prepared to begin the treatment she dreaded. As gently as possible she washed each of his legs using a mixture of the healing ointment she had devised and the cool water. While she worked, she silently prayed the tea she had insisted he drink earlier would still work to dull the pain. It pleased her to see the dead skin, which had bubbled with the water the burn had drawn from his body, had burst. It was now peeling from his legs so the new skin could begin to grow. From experience, she knew the dead skin must be removed to permit the healing he needed. Once she finished, she put more of the fresh water into another bowl and proceeded to wash her hands. With a touch as light as a feather, she applied the ointment to the newly cleansed skin. "Your skill matched that which I have seen in my vision, Granddaughter." The sound of her grandfather's voice should have been expected, but it still startled her. She had been so intent on the task she had assigned herself, his entry into the healing lodge had not been detected. It was entirely possible that he could really come and go without detection, as her mother had told her when she was a child. "Thank you, Grandfather." 203


"There is nothing more you can do here tonight," Black Cloud advised her. "Your grandmother has requested you come to our dwelling. She fears you have neither eaten nor rested properly since you began your journey back to our people." A glance toward Wildcat told her his eyes were becoming heavy with sleep. It would do her more good to eat her grandmother's cooking and sleep herself than to watch him do the same. "I agree with Black Cloud," Hawk said. "Either Snapping Turtle or myself will sit with Wildcat while you take your rest." After cleaning up the bowls she had used, Mourning Dove followed her grandfather into the star-studded night. **** Snapping Turtle and Hawk waited until Wildcat's breathing became even, and sleep drew him closer to her bosom. "Did I imagine it or did he feel no pain when Mourning Dove tended to his burns?" Snapping Turtle asked. "If he did, it is entirely possible our presence took his mind from the pain," Hawk replied. Together they left the healing lodge. With Wildcat sleeping peacefully, they both needed the food they knew awaited them if they joined the people around the central fire. The sound of the drum beats, and songs of the people, drew them to the celebration that was in progress. A glance toward the night sky brought the realization that the new moon was cresting, attesting to the reason for such an event. 204


As soon as they joined the circle of people, Spotted Pony came to sit with them. "Have you been with Wildcat?" he asked. "Yes," Snapping Turtle said. "We stayed with him while Mourning Dove tended to his legs." "We were surprised to see you were not there as well," Hawk admonished. "What good does it do? I have spent much time at his side. I fear our friend is more dead than alive. In all that time he has said no more than a few words. I fear the gods are only prolonging his life as a cruel trick." "Do not be so certain," Snapping Turtle cautioned. "Mourning Dove's presence seems to have worked wonders. We spoke for a long time." "I understand why she would bring him comfort. I am certain she is a good influence on him. I only hope these people will spare her life. There are many here who would see her dead." "We, too, have heard these things," Hawk said. "I have made it clear she is under my protection. Kicking Bear's band is not as strong as ours. I do not think he will risk open hostilities, especially with the threat of Atiko's people added in." "I pray you are right. The feelings here run very high against Mourning Dove, as well as her children."

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Chapter 16 Wildcat could not believe how much strength he had regained since Mourning Dove's arrival. By his calculations, she had been caring for him for three days. Even the pain he'd had in his legs was disappearing. "I think you should enjoy this beautiful weather," Mourning Dove declared on the fourth morning. Although Wildcat had been sitting on his own for the past day, getting to his feet was something else. "I do not know if that is so wise. What if my legs cannot support me?" "Snapping Turtle, Spotted Pony and Hawk are here to help you. Of course, if you are too proud to accept their assistance, then you will have to be content to spend the remainder of your life on your sleeping furs. It would not be too hard to build a travois to take you back to Hawk's village." The thought of becoming dependent on his friends was appalling, but not as bad as becoming an invalid for the remainder of his life. "If you build me a travois, will you continue to care for me as well?" He could not help but smile at her expression. "If you are too lazy to regain your strength, you do not need me to care for you. I am certain your mother will be more than happy to have you as a child again." He grimaced at her tart reply. "What do I have to do to make you love me?" 206


She turned away from him as though the extent of her love would show in here eyes. "You can show me the man I met in Atiko's village has not disappeared." "Then I will do as you say, but once I get my strength back you will be the one to obey me." "Do not be so certain. I obeyed Fighting Beaver but only to a point. Much of what I did for our survival went against what he expected of me. After such a life, I find the word 'obey' is one that I do not enjoy hearing." Her smile warmed his heart. Once she left him alone, he used his arms to pull his uncooperative legs into a sitting position. As soon as he had been able to sit up she had stopped spoon-feeding him. The bowl, as well as the spoon, sat within easy reach. With each meal he ate he found his former appetite returning. After taking the bowl from its resting place, he began to eat his morning meal. The mixture of nuts, grains and honey tasted good and quenched the ache of hunger from his belly. He no more than finished the last morsel than his three friends entered the lodge. "Mourning Dove says you are ready to get back on your feet," Hawk said. "This is the day we have all been waiting to see. Once you are out of this bed I must return to our village. It will be good to be able to tell your family of your recovery." "Do not be so quick to spread the good news. I do not know if this will even work. What if I am unable to stand on my own?"

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Snapping Turtle smiled, and Wildcat knew that although he had made the statement in all sincerity, his friends merely laughed at what they saw as his lack of confidence. With Snapping Turtle's help, Wildcat swung his legs over the side of the raised platform that had served as the base for his bed. For the first time in days his feet actually touched the ground. The hard packed earth was comforting against the soles of his feet. To his dismay, Spotted Pony covered his feet with a pair of moccasins. The soft leather, although comforting and familiar, brought unexpected pain to the new skin on the top of his feet. "Do you want me to take them off?" Spotted Pony asked when Wildcat winced in pain. He shook his head. He wanted to get used to the foot coverings, for it was the only way he would regain his strength, and win Mourning Dove's love. "I am ready to try and stand on my own." He took a deep breath as Snapping Turtle and Spotted Pony stood on either side of him to support his weight when he tried to stand. Weakness from long hours of inactivity threatened to buckle his knees and force him back to the bed of furs. Taking another breath, he leaned heavily on his friends as they helped him toward the door flap. Once there, he allowed them to carry him outside to where Mourning Dove had set up a backrest so he could sit comfortably.

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He knew he would never have made the walk on his own. The short distance was the longest journey he had ever taken in his life. Once he was seated, Mourning Dove washed his legs and applied her healing ointment. Wildcat knew he must be healing, as the process was less painful with each passing day. In the distance, he saw Kicking Bear approaching the healing lodge. He remembered, or at least he thought he remembered, Kicking Bear's presence in the healing lodge when he was first taken there. Since Hawk and Snapping Turtle had arrived, the chief had not returned. Had he not been in so much pain he would have questioned his relative's absence. Instead, he accepted it and concentrated on his own healing. "I am pleased to see you sitting here enjoying the morning sun, Wildcat," Kicking Bear said in greeting. "How is your son?" Wildcat asked, pleased to remember that it was the chief's son whose life he had saved while putting his own in danger. Kicking Bear sat down in front of Wildcat before he answered. "The child has not suffered as you have. He will grow to be a strong and healthy man, or so say the healers." "I, too, know he will grow to be a respected man. While I slept, I saw him as a baby, a child, a young brave, a young man and finally an old man with a war bonnet of many eagle feathers. The gods have great plans for him." "Had it not been for your bravery he would be walking with the ancestors. Your name has been sung around the fire. I 209


have come to ask you to align yourself with our people. Your status with us would be one of honor, even if your strength does not return completely." Wildcat knew that Kicking Bear was doing him a great honor. He could not help but wonder if the offer would be available to him if Mourning Dove stood by his side as his wife. "What if I were to take a wife to add to the burden of your people, should I not completely recover?" "Any maiden in the village would be honored to become your wife. As for the added burden, it would be accepted with pride." Wildcat looked at Mourning Dove. "What if the woman I choose is Mourning Dove?" "The offer would be withdrawn. Had Hawk not insisted, she would not be welcomed in this village." The bitterness in Kicking Bear's words made Wildcat's heart ache. These were words of hatred and not ones he ever expected to hear from the lips of a respected chief. "How can you say such a thing? Is she not the granddaughter of your shaman, Black Cloud?" "Her lineage matters not. She chose a traitor over her own people." Before Wildcat could reply, Kicking Bear stood and stormed away. "Now do you understand?" Mourning Dove asked, her eyes brimming with tears. Wildcat hated seeing the tears that had escaped her eyes and were now streaming down her cheeks. If he had regained his strength, he would have challenged Kicking Bear to a fight 210


of honor. As much as Wildcat wanted to enfold Mourning Dove in his arms, he merely held out his hand to her. "You will be my wife. If it means we must live in Atiko's village and forsake my family, so be it. You cannot deny your love for me any more than I can my love for you." He watched as a weak smile graced her lips. "I have no doubt that your strength will return completely. We will have no need to rely upon the charity of others." Wildcat's spirits soared higher than the clouds that drifted across the heavens. "Then your answer is yes?" "We will see. Before I can say yes, we must get to know each other better." "If you fear my ability to give you more children, or be a father to Winter Moon and Little Butterfly, I can assure you the burns I received will not hamper my abilities in either of those areas." His friends laughed heartily at his statement, while Mourning Dove lowered her eyes in embarrassment. "I see no reason for Snapping Turtle and myself to remain in this village much longer, as you have returned to yourself quite nicely," Hawk remarked, once he contained his laughter. "In the morning, we will start our journey home as we both have families to care for and obligations that must be met. I am certain Spotted Pony will want to stay as there is a certain maiden who has captured his attention." Wildcat knew he would hear more of the woman who had taken possession of his friend's heart in the days to come. In the course of one complete turning of the seasons the three 211


friends had all found love. Childhood had ended and the responsibilities of married men loomed in their futures. **** Mourning Dove sat in front of the healing lodge long after Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle had helped Wildcat back to his bed. Getting him out into the sunlight had been encouraging. What puzzled her the most was how easily she had accepted Wildcat's proposal of marriage. His promise of more children and being a father to Winter Moon and Little Butterfly excited her beyond belief. In the course of his care, she had bathed every portion of his body, including the symbol of his manhood. It was evident that the flames that had burned his legs so badly had not touched that part of his body. Even bathing him had brought his instrument of pleasure to life and piqued her imagination. Fighting Beaver's lovemaking had been selfsatisfying, leaving her used and exhausted. Wildcat's manner promised nights in his tender embrace, enjoying the pleasures that one glimpse of his attributes attested to. In the distance she could hear the thunder of hoof beats. By the position of the sun, it was evident the hunters were returning to the village. If they had been victorious there would be a great feast in the village this night. If they were not, all would be quiet in preparation for another hunt to begin in the morning. Since the events transpiring in the village were of little concern to her, she returned to the daydream of her future with Wildcat. A loud wailing from the village broke her 212


concentration. A lump formed in her throat at the prospect of one of the hunters she had known since childhood walking with the ancestors. She ached that no matter who had fallen, she would not be included in the mourning process. For the past seven winters she had been dead to her people. Now that she had returned, Mourning Dove knew they considered her nothing more than a spirit, someone to be shunned and feared. Only her grandparents treated her as though she was an honored guest in their home. Her mother rarely came to even check on Wildcat. Kicking Bear made it perfectly clear that Wildcat would be welcome to align himself with the village, but only if he did not take Mourning Dove as his wife. While she privately mourned, the voices of the people grew louder and closer. She put aside her own sorrow to look up. As she did she saw Black Cloud leading the people as they came toward her. Her first thought was that they were coming to condemn her for whatever fate had befallen the people. Surely they must think, as did their leader, that she was a curse upon the village. It mattered not what happened to her as Wildcat was regaining more strength with each passing day. It would not be long before he could return with Snapping Turtle to take her children, to raise as his own. As they neared, she saw that several of the hunters carried the man between them. It was evident this man was the reason for their cries of anguish. He was cradled on a blanket and she could see that it was stained red with blood. "There has been a hunting accident," Black Cloud declared when he reached her side. "Our healers have condemned Kicking Bear to a death sentence. Although I do not know 213


how you can help him, my dreams have told me that you have many skills that are beyond any our healers possess. Will you help our leader?" Mourning Dove's knees felt weak as her mind began to spin. Was she to be the excuse the healers used to keep the disgrace of not saving Kicking Bear's life from touching them? It mattered not, for this was the chief she had loved and respected, even after Fighting Bear was banished. She could not allow him to die without trying her best to save him. "What has happened?" "Our hunters wounded a stag deer," Red Fox said. "In his frenzy to get away from us he turned on Kicking Bear and his antlers tore a large hole in our leader's flesh. I do not have the confidence that our grandfather does in your powers, but there is nowhere else to turn. Will you help?" As soon as her brother described Kicking Bear's injuries, a vision of Makisa sewing up the skin of Snapping Turtle and Frader passed before her eyes. With all her might she prayed that the Great Spirit would help her remember each step she had seen Makisa take in the process. A leader of Kicking Bear's status deserved to live to see his children grow old and give him grandchildren. "Bring him into the healing lodge. There is another bed of furs there. Place him on it carefully. When that is done bring me fresh water, soft clothes and grandmother's sewing kit." If her request puzzled any of those who stood before her, they made no comment about it. Rather than dwell on anything but the task at hand, she held open the door flap. 214


Once the men took Kicking Bear inside, she turned on the people who continued their mourning song. "Your cries are misplaced," she admonished them. "Go back to your lodges and pray that the Great Spirit will save the life of your chief. As long as he draws breath, there is no need for mourning." "Why should we trust you?" one of the hunters shouted. "It was your husband who tried to take Kicking Bear's life seven winters ago. Is that your plan now? Will you be the one to carry out his murderous intentions?" Mourning Dove's anger threatened to come to a fast boil. "Your healers have already said they cannot help him. If you do not trust me, so be it. I will wash my hands of the whole thing. Of course any of you who knows me, realizes I will not do such a thing. No matter our differences, Kicking Bear is the chief of my childhood. I will do everything within my power to save his life. That is not to say that I would not appreciate any prayers sent to the Great Spirit on Kicking Bear's behalf. Any skills I possess come from a higher power than what I claim as my own. I pray only that the Great Spirit will guide my hands to do what is right for Kicking Bear." She did not wait for anyone else to reply. She needed to hear no more of their negative comments. From this point forward she must believe that everything she did was for the good of the man who lay closer to death than to life. Again she prayed to the Great Spirit for the strength and knowledge to chase the spirits of death that hovered over Kicking Bear back to the afterlife. In doing so they would have to wait for 215


another day to take the man from those who loved and depended upon him. "Can you help him?" Wildcat asked when she entered the lodge. "I do not know. I can only try." "By agreeing to try, you have put your own life in jeopardy," Kicking Bear gasped. "The deer was only taking his revenge for the lives of his brothers that we have taken before him. Let me die in peace." For the first time Mourning Dove realized that Kicking Bear was conscious. The pain the man must be in was beyond her conception. Somehow she would have to find a way to not only ease the pain, but also keep him from slipping to the afterlife in the process. "My grandfather brought you to me so I could try my best to save your life. While I have been away from this village, I have learned many things. I cannot promise they will be done without pain, but I will do whatever I can to keep you alive and give you back to your wives and children." "Why bother?" Wildcat asked. "Not only has this man denounced and even threatened you, but he is resigned to the inevitability of death. If you were not here..." "But I am here. I cannot stand to see him suffer anymore than I could allow your suffering." The door flap again opened and Black Cloud entered the lodge. After giving her the things she had asked for, he stood for a minute and watched as she took mental count of what he had brought. "Is there anything I can do to assist you?" he finally asked. 216


Mourning Dove looked up at her grandfather. He had always looked old but in the moments that had just passed, he had aged more than she ever thought possible. "Pray to the gods to guide my hands. You can also do your best to calm the people." When her grandfather left, she mixed herbs into the boiling water. As soon as their healing essence was released, she added cool water to the bowl. Once the temperature was to her liking, she thrust the needles her grandfather brought into the fire before she began washing the blood from Kicking Bear's body. At first he winced each time the wet cloth touched his skin. Finally the herbs she put in the water began to numb the area around the tear in his skin. "What I am about to do will hurt, but I have seen it work wonders," she advised him. "I pray you are right. Although I have been told that I will walk with the ancestors before the sun sets, I am not ready for the journey. I fear my passing would put my wives and children in a difficult position. They would no longer be associated as being under the protection of the chief of our people. Other men would take them as second or even third wives and be the ones to raise my children." Mourning Dove knew what Kicking Bear meant. Was that not the reason she had rejected Wildcat's proposal of marriage? She had heard many men lament the fact that they had taken a widow as a wife and were raising the sons of another man. Many times the children were the ones to 217


suffer, and the woman was treated as less than equal to the other wives in the household. She put aside her negative thoughts, and concentrated on what she must do to save the life of Kicking Bear. As the needle pierced the skin for the first time, Mourning Dove pleaded with the gods for their help. With each stitch she watched the wound become but a small line held together with the sinew of the deer, not unlike the one that tried to take Kicking Bear's life. When she finished, she looked up to see that Kicking Bear was sleeping peacefully. Getting to her feet, she poured the hot water into the bowl of cool water, adding more and more until the ideal temperature was achieved. Taking a fresh cloth, she washed all of Kicking Bear's body. She finished by tying a dressing of soft doeskin over the wound. Pleased with her work, Mourning Dove got to her feet and stretched. "Will he live?" Wildcat's question made her aware of his presence in the lodge for the first time since she began treating Kicking Bear. "I think so. He is sleeping. As I did with you, I have put his life in the hands of the gods. I have done everything within my power to save his life." Every bone in her body ached and screamed for her to give in to the weariness that encompassed her entire being. Even so, she knew there was still more to be done. Instead of resting she went to the door of the lodge. Once she stepped outside she was shocked to find two heavily armed guards barring her way. 218


"Allow me to pass," she demanded, suddenly aware of her need to be alone, if only for a little while. "We have orders not to allow you to leave this lodge." "But why? Surely you do not think I would try to run away from the two men who are in my care." "As Fighting Beaver's wife you cannot be trusted. If you were to leave without giving him all of your attention, he could easily die." "Fighting Beaver's widow," she corrected the man. "I have done my best for Kicking Bear, but I need to relieve myself and I cannot do so within this lodge. Anyone with any sense knows it is not something that is done within one's dwelling." "I will go with you." Mourning Dove sighed deeply as she set off toward the area away from the village set aside for such purposes. It upset her to have this man watch her every move, even in the private moments of relieving herself. "I want to see Hawk," she said as soon as she returned. "You are in no position to make demands. Kicking Bear's brother has taken Kicking Bear's place. It is at his order that no one will be allowed to enter or leave the healing lodge. Besides, Hawk has left the village. He has been gone since early this morning, or so we have been told by those who saw him leave." The man's declaration shocked Mourning Dove. She had traveled with Hawk on the trip from Atiko's village. During that time she had seen his concern for Wildcat. She knew the man would not have left without seeing Wildcat first, to tell him of his plan. She said nothing until she regained her 219


composure. "Will someone bring us food? Or shall I help Kicking Bear return to health by feeding him dried herbs, as I have not so much as a drop of water to make tea." "Did you waste the water Black Cloud brought you?" "I wasted nothing," she replied through clinched teeth in an attempt to control her temper. "The water was used to bathe Kicking Bear's wounds, as well as his body. I also used it to make a healing tea for him. I request fresh water, as well as broth and food. Any who would withhold this from me will be considered guilty of hastening Kicking Bear's death." "If anyone is guilty of such an act it is you. We have no guarantee that you did as you said. For all we know Kicking Bear lies dead even as we speak." Upset by her confrontation with the guards, Mourning Dove went back inside the lodge. Wildcat snored contentedly, while Kicking Bear seemed restless. Moving to Kicking Bear's side, she placed her hand against his head. To her dismay, it burned like fire. As she recalled, Snapping Turtle's skin had burned after Makisa sewed it shut. Searching her memory for what to do, she remembered Makisa washing Snapping Turtle's body with cool water. The bowl she had used before still had water in the bottom of it. Being careful not to waste even one precious drop, she washed Kicking Bear again and again until the last bit of moisture was gone. Since no one brought her more water, she sat down on the hard-packed ground in defeat. In their distrust of her, they were willing the death of their chief. **** 220


Wildcat awoke, acutely aware of something being terribly wrong in the lodge. He could smell nothing cooking, nor could he hear Mourning Dove's soft singing. Rising up on one elbow, he saw Kicking Bear sleeping across from him on the bed of furs Mourning Dove usually occupied. By the fire, he saw Mourning Dove, her legs drawn up under her chin and her head cradled on her folded arms, where they rested on her knees. His stomach growled with hunger. Rather than wake her, he lay back against the bed of furs. Surely Snapping Turtle, Spotted Pony or Hawk would come soon with something for them to eat. Across from him Kicking Bear stirred. "What has she done to me?" he questioned. The weakness in the man's voice came as no surprise to Wildcat. He hesitated for a moment for fear their conversation would waken Mourning Dove. "She saved your life, although I do not know why." "She should have let me die. My stomach feels as though someone has poked holes in it several times over." "That could be because she sewed shut the hole in your belly as your wife would sew shut a hole in your shirt." "How can that be?" "Did you not see the Spirit Woman do such things at the winter campground?" Kicking Bear shook his head no. "That surprises me. I thought everyone witnessed her magic. Mourning Dove has been residing in the village of the 221


Spirit Woman and Atiko. It is no wonder she knows of this skill. Have you not seen the scar on Snapping Turtle's belly? The story he tells is that he received a gash like yours while fighting those of the village of the outcasts for Makisa's freedom. Makisa, the woman he has taken as wife, sewed him up, as Mourning Dove has done for you." "Then I will not die?" "Not by Mourning Dove's hand. Of course it is possible we could starve to death. There is no food in this lodge except that which Mourning Dove's grandmother brings to us. No one else in this village has brought us so much as a pot of stew or a piece of cooked meat since my arrival. In the time that has passed since you have arrived, no one has brought either food or water to us. I am beginning to wonder if you have enemies within those of your own people." "Where is Mourning Dove? Perhaps she is getting our meal." "She is asleep on the floor beside the fire. Judging by the patch of sky I can see through the smoke hole, it is night. Your people are celebrating the successful hunt that almost cost you your life." Mourning Dove stirred, silencing the whispered conversation of the two men. "You are both awake. How long have you allowed me to sleep?" "Not long enough," Wildcat commented. "This man says there is no food here. Why is that?" "This is not my lodge. Were it mine, I would have food, but this is a healing lodge. There is nothing here but herbs and 222


medicines. Until your arrival, my grandmother brought us our meals." "Why has no one brought food for us now?" "Your brother has forbidden anyone to leave or enter this lodge. We are prisoners here. The guards are heavily armed. They even accompanied me and watched as I relieved myself. I have begged them for food and water, but it has done no good." "Tell them I demand to see them." Wildcat watched as Mourning Dove got to her feet and went outside. "You were told to stay inside the lodge," he heard one of the men say. "I recall asking for food and water. Where is it?" Silence reigned supreme. "Kicking Bear has asked to see you," they heard her say. "Do not believe her. She has killed our chief and plans to lure us inside to do the same thing again and again until she has killed everyone in the village." "If that is the case, we should kill her now and retrieve the body of our chief for burial." Fear clutched Wildcat's heart. Mourning Dove was defenseless against an attack and neither Kicking Bear nor himself could come to her aid. He watched as she came back into the lodge. The look on her face was one of terror. "If they kill me, raise my children as your own," she pleaded. "I will allow no harm to come to you," he said, all the while knowing his words sounded hollow. 223


"As much as I love you, there is nothing you can do. If my life must be forfeited in order to give you the nourishment you require, so be it. I do love you and would have been proud to be your wife." Without further words she turned and ran out of the lodge. "Can you do nothing to stop her?" he asked of Kicking Bear, but he received no answer. A glance in the man's direction told him the wounded chief had slipped back to sleep. Mourning Dove's scream of pain brought him more strength than he had thought possible, as he sat bolt upright in the bed. The lodge was suddenly bright with the light of many torches. People seemed to crowd into the dwelling from everywhere. "What has happened here?" Hawk demanded. The first man to enter the lodge knelt next to the bed of furs where Kicking Bear lay. With all the commotion, he opened his eyes and looked at the man at his side. "What is the meaning of this?" Kicking Bear asked. Although his voice was weak, it still sounded with the authority of a chief. "He lives! Kicking Bear lives!" "I live, but at what price? Where is Mourning Dove?" The question met with silence. "Your chief asked you a question," Hawk said, his tone accusing. "Are you not man enough to tell him your spear is lodged in her body?" 224


Wildcat could feel all hope drain from his soul. This man had killed the woman he loved. If it were not for Winter Moon and Little Butterfly, he would will himself to die as well. They were his only reason to cling to life. As soon as he regained enough strength to set a horse, he would ride to Atiko's village and claim them as his own.

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Chapter 17 Hawk had sensed something was terribly wrong in Kicking Bear's village as soon as he rode in. It was more than Winter Hawk's raids on the horse herd. Something else was wrong, but Hawk could not find out what gave him cause for concern. In the past few days, he had questioned Kicking Bear at length. The man was convinced Winter Hawk had been behind everything. How could a flesh and blood man disappear like a ghost in the night? How was it that everyone accused him and yet no one had seen him? Was it possible that others had seen those responsible for the raids and only allowed Kicking Bear to believe they were invisible? At the time, Kicking Bear had been with his wives and children, calming them after the fire that destroyed their homes. In reality, Hawk knew that was no excuse for a leader to give. It was entirely possible that Winter Hawk was completely innocent. Someone from within Kicking Bear's own band could easily be behind not only the raids, but also the death and injury that had occurred because of them. It would explain why no one saw the intruders. If they were people that everyone knew and trusted, they would be beyond suspicion. After helping Wildcat to go outside for some time in the sun, Hawk had mounted his horse and rode away from the village. He needed some time alone to sort things out in his own mind. With all the questions crowding his thoughts, he could not leave Wildcat and Mourning Dove here alone. 226


The village that loomed in the distance came as a complete surprise. He had heard of no village so close to that of Kicking Bear before. Could it be these people were new to the area and had not yet made their presence known? "I am Hawk. I come in peace," he declared when the guards stopped him. "I want to meet with your chief." The guards escorted Hawk to the center of the village. The encampment was orderly and everyone greeted him warmly. It was strange, but for some reason these people reminded him of those he knew as once belonging to Kicking Bear's band. At last they stopped in front of a lodge that could only belong to the chief. To his surprise the man who stepped out to greet him was Winter Hawk. "Hawk it is good to see you again," Winter Hawk said as he clasped Hawk's forearm in friendship. "What are you doing so far south so early in the summer?" "I might ask the same of you. I was told you were dead to the people, in your banishment. Since that was the belief, those of Kicking Bear's village consider you to be a spirit. It looks to me as though you are more flesh and blood than spirit." "As you can see I am far from dead. I have fallen from favor with Kicking Bear, though. Is it he who told you I walk with the ancestors?" Hawk accepted the refreshments that Winter Hawk's wife offered before he began to relate the circumstances surrounding the raids on Kicking Bear's village. "Those who witnessed the last raid said that it was the work of a spirit. 227


They are sure you have returned from the land of the ancestors to gain revenge for your banishment." "As you can see I am very much alive," Winter Hawk said as he shook his head in disbelief at Hawk's story. "Unfortunately, I fear I know who is behind all of this. Have you met Red Sky?" The question bewildered Hawk. "You know I have. He is Kicking Bear's brother." "Let me tell you the truth behind the events that led to my banishment, as well as that of Fighting Beaver and Mourning Dove. As young braves, Fighting Beaver, Red Sky and myself were best friends. Red Sky has always envied his brother the power he holds. The uprising against Kicking Bear was Red Sky's idea. I am certain he is the one who betrayed us to Kicking Bear as well." "Why did you not accuse him?" "Would you have believed us over the brother of a respected chief? If anyone is behind this it is Red Sky. He may have been waiting in peace for seven winters, but he is no less hungry for power now than he was then. Mark my words, Kicking Bear, and anyone who is loyal to him, is in danger. Red Sky is like a mad dog. He will strike and when he does no one in that village will be safe. They will all be in grave danger." "Then there is no time to waste," Hawk declared. "I have friends in that village. If the danger is as you say, we must go back there now." "We?" Winter Hawk questioned. "Do you expect me to return to the village that banished me?" 228


"I expect you to help me save the lives of my brother and my friends. If the situation is as bad as you seem to think, perhaps it is time for you to face Kicking Bear with the truth about Red Sky. If you do not do this, innocent blood could be shed." Hawk watched as Winter Hawk's brows knotted in thought. Had Hawk's last statement hit home for the man who stood as equal to him? "Perhaps you are right. My parents and sisters are in that village. I would not like to think that their lives were ended because I did nothing to stop the madness. You must know by doing this I put my own life in danger, as well as the lives of my men." "I will do everything in my power to defend you. How soon can you be prepared to leave?" "I must confer with my warriors and hunters. Once we have met in council, we will bring you our decision." Hawk could do nothing but wait to see if the men of Winter Hawk's village would agree to follow him back to where Snapping Turtle and his friends could be in danger of losing their lives. While he waited, he took inventory of the condition of Winter Hawk's home. Unlike the outcast village Snapping Turtle had told him about, the encampment was one of which any leader would be proud. "The council is ended," Winter Hawk announced. Hawk turned to face the chief of this village of the twelve bands. He is indeed a great leader. From his expression I cannot tell if he and his men will accompany me, or if I must return to Kicking Bear's village alone. 229


"Many of my men have ties to Kicking Bear's people. We will come with you, even if for some of us it may mean we must forfeit our lives." "I will do everything in my power to convince Kicking Bear that you and your men are not at fault for what is transpiring in his village. I have been told that many witnessed the last raid on the village, but that no one saw you or any of your men. That is why they think you are spirits. I know now that the reason no one saw you was because it was their own men who were behind the trouble. It will not be hard to convince Kicking Bear, once the truth is revealed." "I pray you are right, Hawk. I know how persuasive Red Sky can be. I fell into his web of deceit and conspiracy and lost my position, not only with my people, but with my family as well. It is the same for many of the others in the village as well." "Then we will ride. As you know it is not far to Kicking Bear's village. Perhaps we can get there before any more trouble befalls those people." Hawk mounted his horse and joined the others. Never before had he had ridden with a group of men in search of war. The feeling that encompassed his mind was completely alien. To make war against someone of the twelve bands is wrong, but in this case it has to be done. The thought of Snapping Turtle as well as our other friends losing their lives when it could have been prevented makes my stomach churn in disgust and my mind spin in anger. **** 230


The moon was high in the heavens when Hawk, along with Winter Hawk and his men, rode back into Kicking Bear's village. Drums beat out a cadence of celebration, evidently proclaiming a great hunt. On the fringes of the crowd he recognized Snapping Turtle and Spotted Pony. Before he could get the attention of either of them, a woman's scream of pain rent the air. As though they were a herd of frightened buffalo, the people were on their feet and rushing in the direction of the sound of terror. Hawk urged his horse forward past the surge of people, while Winter Hawk and his men hung back. As soon as he reached the healing lodge, his stomach lurched and threatened to rebel. Mourning Dove lay in front of the lodge, a spear protruding from her shoulder. The commotion within the healing lodge drew his attention from Mourning Dove. He hurried inside to see Wildcat sitting bolt upright, while two warriors hovered over a man lying on the bed of furs Mourning Dove had occupied ever since their arrival in the village. "He lives! Kicking Bear lives!" The shout shocked Hawk to complete silence. How could these people be celebrating when there was a possibility that their chief lay dying? Had Red Sky taken charge of the people and attempted to take his brother's life? Had the people known of Kicking Bear's condition? If so, how could all of this have occurred in such a short span of time? He had been gone from the village less than an entire day. How could tragedy strike so quickly? 231


"I live, but at what price?" Hawk heard Kicking Bear say. The man's voice sounded weak, but was still filled with the authority of a leader. "Where is Mourning Dove?" Hawk turned his attention to the men who stood over Kicking Bear. He couldn't help but wonder if it was a shock to them to hear their chief speak. Since the two of them were speechless, it was evident they were afraid to tell their leader the truth of what had transpired outside of the lodge. Unable to hold his tongue any longer, Hawk spoke up. "Your chief asked you a question. Are you not man enough to tell him your spear is lodged in her body?" Hawk asked, his tone accusing. From behind him he heard Wildcat's cry of anguish. The sound of it tore at Hawk's heart, but he could not be compassionate toward his friend before he got to the bottom of what was going on within this village. "What is he doing here?" one of the men standing next to Kicking Bear asked. Hawk turned to see Winter Hawk had entered the dwelling. "You are dead!" Kicking Bear stated, his voice laced with a combination of fear and anger. "My own brother told me that you were but a spirit who had come to do harm to our village. Because of you two women are dead, two children are injured and my own son almost lost his life in the fire that consumed the lodge of my second wife." "You are mistaken, Kicking Bear. Until this night I have not left my village. I would not be here now if Hawk had not come to ask for my assistance. Did Red Sky see my body? Did he cover it with Mother Earth? I can tell you that he did neither 232


of these things. The words he has told you are lies, in order to hide the truth of his actions." "Who speaks these lies about me?" Red Sky demanded as he entered the lodge. Hawk watched as Red Sky stopped abruptly upon seeing Winter Hawk. The shock upon the man's face told more truth than words could ever begin to explain. "Tell me Red Sky, did you make the raids upon your brother's herd? Did you kill the two young women?" Hawk knew his questions were more accusations than anything else, but they had to be asked and the answers had to be told. As he waited for the words of denial everyone expected to be heard, his inquiries were met with silence from the man who stood before him. "The truth, Kicking Bear, as I have heard it, is that your own brother incited Fighting Beaver, Winter Hawk and the others against you. Was it not Red Sky who warned you of their intentions?" Kicking Bear nodded. "I do not know how you came to be in the healing lodge, nor do I know why your people thought you were dead. What I do know is that Red Sky has taken the opportunity of your injuries to again try to kill you, and this time he planned to blame Mourning Dove." "That cannot be true," someone shouted. "But it can," Wildcat proclaimed. "I watched while Mourning Dove cared for Kicking Bear. When she finished and asked the guards for food and water, she was denied. They 233


told her they were acting under the orders of Red Sky. It was evident that he expected everyone within this lodge to die of hunger and thirst." "These men are lying to you, Brother," Red Sky said, suddenly finding his voice. "They are traitors, just as Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk were traitors. The true villain stands with Hawk and pretends to be concerned." "I have listened to you for too long, Red Sky. You blame everyone else when you are the viper in our midst. I heard Mourning Dove's pleas for food and water. I also heard them denied. Mourning Dove has saved my life only to lose hers. Our people will be forever cursed. Even our enemies mock us with their presence." "Winter Hawk is not your enemy," Hawk declared. "When he was banished he was young and under the influence of Red Sky. Since his departure he has built a good life for himself and his people. It was within their council that they decided to come to help you and your people. Would an enemy do that? I do not think so. He has learned a costly lesson of whom he can trust with his allegiance. Until this situation is sorted out, his warriors, as well as my brother and Spotted Pony, will maintain order and see that none of those who were terrorizing your people escape." Red Sky looked from Hawk to Winter Hawk to Kicking Bear in stunned disbelief. "Would you believe this traitor, and a stranger, over me?" "I do not know whom to believe. I do know I need to rest. Hawk, I ask you to help keep order within my village until I 234


am strong enough to sort out the details of what you have told me this night." Hawk sighed deeply. All thoughts of returning to his family were suddenly gone. The thing that had bothered him was Red Sky's betrayal of his own brother. Why had he not seen it earlier? Until friend could be distinguished from foe, all of the men of Kicking Bear's village would have to be taken prisoner. Winter Hawk's men were already taking charge of the situation. Even so, it could be that things here could demand his attention for a long time. "Is Mourning Dove dead?" Hawk turned to face Wildcat. "I do not think so. The spear was lodged in her chest, but closer to her right shoulder than to her heart. I will go to her and learn of her condition. Once I know that she is out of danger, I will return to you to ease your mind." Hawk left the lodge, relieved to see two men carrying Mourning Dove toward the lodge of Black Cloud. Once outside he saw Snapping Turtle and Spotted Pony waiting for him. "What has happened here?" Snapping Turtle asked. "We were told that Kicking Bear was dead and that Red Sky had taken leadership of the people. When the people began to mourn, Red Sky told them that his brother would want no such show of emotions for him. He had died valiantly because of the horns of a wounded deer. He said it was time for the people to rejoice that the leader was now walking with the ancestors, and that one as prepared as himself was able to take charge until the sons of his brother were of an age to assume leadership." 235


Hawk ached at Snapping Turtle's words. If things were different, if Snapping Turtle had not left his village, those were the words he would have told his brother to say to the people if he were dying. "Winter Hawk is not the villain we were led to believe. Neither does Kicking Bear walk with the ancestors. The accident Kicking Bear had while hunting only played into Red Sky's hands. He is the one behind everything, including the attempt on Kicking Bear's life seven winters ago. Until the innocent can be divided from the guilty, we, along with Winter Hawk's men, must keep order. Once that is accomplished, I will send Spotted Pony to our villages to tell our families what has happened. I fear it will be a long time before any of us can return to our homes. I am thankful that I have Buffalo Calf to act in my absence and Prairie Flower understands the things I must do. I can only pray that Makisa is as understanding of you, my brother." Both Snapping Turtle and Spotted Pony exchanged knowing glances. "She will understand. Makisa loves Wildcat, as do I. As you recall it was my wife who insisted I be at his side. I wanted to be here as well, but not without her blessing." Hawk nodded. He had much on his mind, but the memory of the celebration that was in progress when he arrived still bothered him. "How could the people put aside their grief? If it had been our village and I had asked you to tell the people the things Red Sky related, there would be no celebration. Instead, there would have been mourning, no matter what you told them." 236


"It bothered me as well, but who was I to question?" Snapping Turtle asked. "When Kicking Bear was brought back to the village, the healers had no idea what to do for him. They were willing to watch him slip to the land of the ancestors as they knew of no way to save his life. It was Mourning Dove who had the knowledge of sewing shut wounds, as she had watched Makisa do it for Frader and me when we were injured. It was I who told them to take Kicking Bear to her, and Black Cloud who agreed with me." "You did the right thing, but why did the people go on with the celebration?" "At first there was much mourning. The people were crying and the women were singing the songs of death. It was Mourning Dove who admonished them and told them to stop their wailing. It was exactly what Red Sky wanted, as he told the people Kicking Bear would want them to celebrate their successful hunt. Several others agreed with him and told the people to give thanks to the gods for their good fortune, and to the spirits of the animals who had given their lives to sustain the people. It was not until later that Red Sky joined the people and told them that Kicking Bear walked with the ancestors but that he was ready to take leadership. Although he did not blame Mourning Dove out loud, I can see now that his men were spreading the rumors that she should be held responsible. At the time, I could not see past anything but the grief I felt for the loss of Kicking Bear." Hawk listened to his brother intently. Mourning Dove had played into Red Sky's hands without even knowing it; now her life hung in the balance. If she were dead, Wildcat's will to 237


live would be extinguished.

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Chapter 18 Mourning Dove's first conscious thought was one of pain. With it came the memory of the reason for it. Never in her life had she expected to have a spear imbedded in her shoulder. Why someone had tried to take her life, to say nothing of denying food and water to Wildcat and Kicking Bear, was beyond anything she could understand. "Can you hear me, Mourning Dove?" Her mother's soothing voice cut through the pain and bitter memories to jolt her to complete awareness. "Has this village gone mad?" Mourning Dove's question betrayed the weakness she felt encompassing her body. "I do not know how to answer you, Daughter. Much is happening in the village. Perhaps when Black Cloud returns from his conference with Hawk and the others he will be able to tell us more." "Am I dying? If so, what will become of my children?" "You will not die. You were very lucky that your wound was not one that will take your life. It will be quite a while before either you or Wildcat is able to travel, though. It has been suggested that the two of you make your home with us. Already our people are singing your praises as a healer, as Kicking Bear regains more strength with each passing hour." "How can that be? Has so much time passed since I was wounded?" "Your grandfather has given me instructions to prepare teas for you to keep you sedated. You have been sleeping for 239


two days now. Although Kicking Bear tires easily, you were the one to save his life. Many facts have come to light since Kicking Bear was injured. Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk were but Red Sky's helpers in his quest to take his brother's place as chief. Winter Hawk and his people have become our allies, and he has redeemed himself in the eyes of the people." Mourning Dove could feel her strength fading. As much as she wanted to stay awake and be taken to Wildcat's bedside, she slipped back into the bliss of healing sleep. **** "Then it is agreed," Kicking Bear said. "Wildcat and Mourning Dove will align themselves with this village." Even if Wildcat wanted to disagree, he held his tongue. He knew traveling would be as difficult for Mourning Dove as it would be for him. "I do not wish to be deprived of Wildcat in my band," Hawk said, "but the decision is a wise one. With so many of your young men willing to follow Red Sky, Wildcat will be invaluable to you." The council ended and all but Hawk left the healing lodge. "Do you think Mourning Dove will agree to stay here with you?" Wildcat had wondered the same thing. "She has agreed to be my wife. I can only pray she will be comfortable here." "Do you think you will be able to help Kicking Bear to rebuild his village?" 240


"I have no doubts in that area. Although many of the young men are loyal to Red Sky, Muskrat and his friends will make a good core to rebuild the strength of Kicking Bear's people." "In the morning I will be sending Spotted Pony to our village, as well as that of Snapping Turtle, to tell our families of what is happening here. Before he returns, he will make arrangements to bring Mourning Dove's children with him. I fear they have been without not only their mother, but also your guidance, for far too long." "With each day that passes I am stronger. I ask that you and Snapping Turtle help me to go to Mourning Dove's side to tell her of these plans myself." To his relief, Hawk agreed with him. It had been two days since he had seen Mourning Dove. Although Black Cloud assured him she was resting, Wildcat continued to worry. He wanted to see for himself that she was going to make a complete recovery. It was some time later that Hawk came to the healing lodge again. "Black Cloud has sent me to get you. Mourning Dove is awake and insisting she be brought to see you. It will be a pleasant surprise for her when it is you who comes to her side." With Hawk's help Wildcat got to his feet. He was pleased that Muskrat had brought him a sturdy walking stick. Although walking was painful, the stick made it much easier. The smell of herbs filled the shaman's lodge, reminding Wildcat of the same aroma filling the healing lodge when Mourning Dove was treating his legs. 241


"I do not know why no one will take me to see Wildcat," Mourning Dove grumbled. Just hearing Mourning Dove's demands brought a smile to Wildcat's lips. "I do not see why you should make such a trip when I have come to see you." He moved into her line of vision and enjoyed the smile that seemed to fill her entire face. "Are you certain you should be up? Who is tending to your legs?" He took her hand in his. "I am healing quite nicely. Between your mother and Black Cloud the treatments you started have continued. I have been so worried about you I finally convinced Hawk that he should help me to come to your side." "My mother says although I was badly injured I will recover. I do worry about my children. If I am here who will continue to care for them?" "The children are one of the things we must talk about, and decide what we are going to do. Kicking Bear wants us to align ourselves with this village. You have agreed to become my wife. Will you be willing to stay here and help Kicking Bear rebuild his people's strength?" Tears formed in Mourning Dove's eyes. He knew he was asking more of her than anyone had a right to ask. "If I agree, will my children be destroyed because they carry Fighting Beaver's blood?" With everything that had happened in the past few days, Wildcat had forgotten the threat that had sent Mourning Dove 242


away from this village with Fighting Beaver seven winters earlier. "No one will harm your children, Mourning Dove," Kicking Bear declared. "You have my word on it." None of them had heard Kicking Bear enter the Shaman's lodge, so his statement came as a complete surprise. "Much has come to light over the past few days. Fighting Beaver and Winter Hawk were influenced, and betrayed, by my own brother. It was Red Sky who insisted that I banish Winter Hawk and Fighting Beaver. At the time I saw my brother as the man who saved my life. I was a fool to believe the advice of a man who wanted me dead. From what I have been told, my brother had second thoughts about taking my life, so he betrayed those who had followed him. He waited for seven winters until his hatred again surfaced." Kicking Bear's confession came as no surprise to Wildcat. He had heard too many of the discussions between Kicking Bear and Hawk not to know what had transpired over the past few days. By the look on Mourning Dove's face the same words did come as a complete surprise to her. "Had I been in your position," Kicking Bear continued, directing his comments to Mourning Dove, "I do not know if I would have used my skills to save the life of the chief who had done me wrong. Instead, your compassion saved my life. In doing so, you flew in the face of the man who wanted me dead and almost lost your life. I pray you will find it in your heart to forgive my words and actions of seven winters ago. Your skills will be of great benefit to our people, and the voices of your children will bring joy to our village." 243


Tears filled Mourning Dove's eyes. Wildcat knew this was the acceptance she had wanted seven winters earlier. If it had been forthcoming then, she could have been spared the humiliation and abuse she had been forced to endure as Fighting Beaver's wife. "Your offer is more than generous. Since you have known me all of my life, I cannot believe you would even consider that I would do anything to put your life in danger. I would be pleased to be considered among your healers, not only because of my knowledge of herbs and healing plants, but also because of the skills I have learned from Makisa and the Spirit Woman." "Then it is agreed." Wildcat could tell from the tone of Kicking Bear's voice that the man was tiring. As soon as Kicking Bear left the shaman's lodge, Wildcat brought Mourning Dove's hand to his lips. "How much longer must I wait to call you wife, and become a true father to Winter Moon and Little Butterfly?" Mourning Dove began to smile. "I could insist you play your flute for me and wrap me in your blanket. Of course, I am no longer a maiden who anticipates such things. Besides, I do not think you could hold on to your walking stick and play your flute at the same time. It is entirely possible that my grandfather could be persuaded to perform the ceremony for us before either of us changes our minds." Wildcat could feel his heart swell with joy. The woman he loved would soon be his wife forever and always. In the 244


bargain, he would gain not only a fine son but also a beautiful daughter. "I could perform the ceremony right now, but that would not be fair to either of you," Black Cloud declared. "A bride should have time to prepare for her wedding. It would also not be fair to Wildcat's family. When Spotted Pony returns to your village it will be with good news, as well as an invitation to Wildcat's family to join him for this important event in his life." "I have wanted Mourning Dove to be my wife ever since I first saw her on the night I returned to Atiko's village with Hawk's instructions for the exchange. I came to this village to find out why she would not consent to be my wife. In the process I have learned much more. With the knowledge that Mourning Dove will make my life complete, I will be willing to wait for however long it takes." "What about you, Granddaughter? Are you as willing to wait as this young man who has chosen you above all others?" "I have waited since I first saw him at the winter campground when I was promised to Fighting Beaver. I only pray I will bring no disgrace upon either him or his family." Wildcat squeezed her hand tightly in acceptance of her declaration of love. He had no idea that she had noticed him so many winters ago when he was little more than a young man intent upon finding his place in the world. Beneath his hand he could feel Mourning Dove relax as sleep drew her away from him. 245


"Is it true?" Spotted Pony asked when Wildcat stepped outside into the warmth of the summer afternoon. "Is what true?" Wildcat asked, pretending to be ignorant of his friend's meaning. "Are you and Mourning Dove going to stay in this village?" "We are, if you are willing to go to Atiko's village once you leave our people and bring us Winter Moon and Little Butterfly. Are you and Shy Doe not planning to do the same thing?" "Shy Doe has agreed to be my wife. She has also agreed to return to Hawk's village with me, even though her people are here, as is her life. That way we can remain close enough to visit Snapping Turtle often." "What is it you are not saying? Could it be that you want to remain close to Crying Coyote?" "That is part of it. I have spoken to Shy Doe of the boy. She is anxious to meet him and become friends with Rushing Water. Did you think I would ask her to marry me without telling her of the boy?" "You know I did not think such a thing." Wildcat could feel his own strength waning. He had been on his feet for far longer than at any time since the fire. As though Spotted Pony had read his mind, he was at Wildcat's side, helping him back to the bed that he had occupied for so many days.

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Chapter 19 The day after Spotted Pony left the village storm clouds darkened the heavens. Rain that had begun as an annoying drizzle soon became an unrelenting torrent, pushed to its limits by high winds. Wildcat was thankful that Mourning Dove had come to the healing lodge to take her morning meal with him. By doing that, they had been able to be alone together when the rain forced everyone else inside. "I am glad that Kicking Bear insisted on returning to his own lodge yesterday," Wildcat said as Mourning Dove snuggled close to him. "We need this time alone. Once the children return with Spotted Pony we will become a family. When that happens, finding the time to be alone will be much harder to arrange." "Perhaps you would like to give more consideration to your proposal," she teased. Wildcat pulled her close to him and covered her mouth with his. The taste of her lips excited him until his entire being was on fire with his desire for her. With the expertise of a practiced lover, he moved his hand down her leg until his fingers touched the bottom of her dress. Once he caressed the bare skin of her leg, he moved his hand upward. As though his touch had ignited her desire as well, she moaned. Within moments, his fingers were sliding into the hidden passage that lay just beyond the juncture of her thighs. 247


"Oh, Wildcat," she gasped. "I know it is not right to be together like this before marriage, but I want you." "No more than I want you, but I do not want to drain your strength." "How can you drain me when your touch makes me feel alive for the first time since before Winter Moon was born?" He silenced her words with a long and loving kiss as he gently turned her onto her back. Mounting her brought pain to his legs, but it was overshadowed by the pleasure of having her in his arms. She opened her legs wide to give him easier access to the area unmarried women guarded jealously. As soon as his manhood slipped inside her, he knew this was right. The walls of her channel of pleasure embraced him as though the gods had made her especially for him. Slowly, their lovemaking went from tentative movements to passionate strides. When at last they climaxed, he lay for a moment, unwilling to break the special connection between them. Finally, he rolled onto his side and pulled her into his arms. It was in this position that they fell asleep, comfortable in their intertwined embrace. **** Mourning Dove awoke to the sound of the wind and the pounding rain. She smiled to realize she had slept in the loving security of Wildcat's arms. In all of the time she had been Fighting Beaver's wife, never once had he held her while she slept. Perhaps that was one of the reasons she had not 248


mourned his death, as did the other women in the village for their husbands. The only thing to miss would be the beatings he so often gave her. Wildcat's stomach growled. The sound of it made her glad her mother had insisted on bringing enough food to sustain them through at least two days, should the storm last that long. As quietly as possible, she slipped from his arms so she could prepare them something to satisfy their hunger. Within her body her woman's soul throbbed, bringing to mind the pleasure Wildcat had given her earlier. She could not help but smile at the thought of feeling like this for the rest of her life. Everything about this union seemed right. Winter Moon idolized Wildcat, Little Butterfly adored him, and Mourning Dove knew he loved her as much as she loved him. Even the reasons for her not living in this village had disappeared. She and Wildcat were good for each other. A twinge of pain in her shoulder brought back bitter memories of Red Sky. Fighting Beaver had often cursed him for his betrayal. He had even told her that Winter Hawk and those who had followed him had little to do with the plot against Kicking Bear. Even so, since Winter Hawk had been with Fighting Beaver on the night they were to take Kicking Bear's life, he and those who followed him were considered guilty and banished for their loyalty to Red Sky. It was no wonder they had not followed Fighting Beaver. Although she had heard little of what had happened to Red Sky since his deception was uncovered, she was certain he had paid the ultimate price for his part in the plot against 249


Kicking Bear. His fate was exactly what he deserved. He had accused Winter Hawk of the raids that were carried out by his own men. Betrayal was bad enough, but deception equally went against the morals of the people. It was strange how quickly things had changed. Winter Hawk and his men, although their village remained separate, were now considered allies and as such, part of the twelve bands once again. For the first time in far too long, she was a beloved daughter and granddaughter. When her children were again in this village they would enjoy the love of grandparents and great grandparents. It was a dream come true for Mourning Dove as well as her children. Her heart ached for the wives and children of the men who had remained loyal to Red Sky in this plot against Kicking Bear. Mourning Dove prayed they would not suffer as she and her children had when she followed her husband into banishment. "Is that my woman at the fire preparing a meal for us to share?" Wildcat's term of 'my woman' made Mourning Dove smile. "Can you call me your woman before we are joined in marriage?" "I have thought of you as my woman ever since I first saw you in Atiko's village. I need no ceremony to make you mine in every way." "It does not bother you that you are not the first man to know me?" Mourning Dove knew she should not ask the question but it was something that weighed heavily on her mind. 250


"You certainly must know that tradition among our people says a man's first wife must be a virgin. I have had my choice of many virgins in the past. None of them have caught my eye or held my interest as you do. Since I do not have to contend with a jealous husband, I can see no reason to deny myself the woman I love." She opened her mouth, but before a single word could pass her lips, he held up his hand for her to remain silent. "If your next question is about your children, do not ask it. Surely you have noticed my love of children. I cannot say that marriage or a family of my own will change anything about me, especially not the one thing that brings me great pleasure. I enjoy teaching the young braves the skills I have learned over the passing winters. I also enjoy telling them stories. The thought of calling Winter Moon and Little Butterfly my children excites me as much as planting our own child within your body." When he finished talking, he got up from the bed. Leaning heavily on the walking stick, he made his way to her side. Tears of joy ran down her cheeks as she allowed him to take her in his arms and kiss her tenderly. "Do you have any further doubts?" "No. I know I love you, as do my children. My only concern was your standing with your people in taking a wife such as me." "Good. Now that we have all the talking behind us, perhaps we should eat. I need to keep up my strength for the lovemaking I plan to engage in until this rain has stopped. If we are lucky, our own child will be planted before the 251


marriage ceremony takes place. I know the joy that my friend, Snapping Turtle, feels at knowing his child will be born soon. I can hardly wait to experience the same joy in my heart."

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Chapter 20 The rain that had washed everything clean gave way to hot steamy days. During these days, Mourning Dove conferred with her grandfather and the healers, while Wildcat regained his mobility by exploring the village. At night they explored each other's bodies with delightful lovemaking in the healing lodge. Because of the remoteness of their dwelling no one bothered them. It was almost as though they were already married. Her life had begun at the moment when she first saw Wildcat at the Ceremony of the Maidens on the cresting of the full moon, and now it was complete. While they waited for Spotted Pony's return, Hawk and Snapping Turtle helped Wildcat erect a new lodge that would accommodate their family once Black Cloud officially joined them together. They had just sat down to their evening meal when a commotion from the other end of the village caught their attention. Before they could get to their feet, Winter Moon and Little Butterfly came running up to greet them. Mourning Dove could not stop the tears that ran down her cheeks. In the time they had been separated both children had grown noticeably. She hugged each of them tightly as if to loosen her grip would make them disappear. Even with all of the hard work and excitement of coming to this village she had missed her 253


children more than she ever thought possible. Never again would she allow anything to separate them. "Are we really going to live here, Mother?" Little Butterfly asked. "Will Wildcat be our new father?" Winter Moon inquired before Mourning Dove could answer her daughter's question. "Yes to both of you," Wildcat replied. "Wading Bird let me ride on his horse with him," Little Butterfly declared, "and Winter Moon rode with Proud Elk. Did you know we have new grandparents, too?" "Crying Coyote has a new father as well," Winter Moon added as though he did not want to be left out of the conversation. Mourning Dove had no time to dwell on the mental picture her children's words portrayed. The idea of Wildcat's family traveling from their village to that of Atiko, and then to this village to witness the ceremony to make her and the children members of their family, was too much for her to understand. The comment about Crying Coyote took away her thoughts of the people she would call family and surprised her completely. Before either of them could comment, Spotted Pony and Crying Coyote stepped from the lengthening shadows of evening. "I see your children have found you," Spotted Pony said to Mourning Dove, before turning his attention to Wildcat. "Your mother and father, as well as the rest of your family, are enjoying Kicking Bear's hospitality. "Is Rushing Water with you?" Wildcat asked. 254


"My mother walks with the ancestors along with my father," Crying Coyote said, his voice devoid of emotion. "There is much I need to say to Wildcat. I want you to go and find Winter Moon and Little Butterfly," Spotted Pony instructed the boy. "Once I have spoken with my friend, we will go to find Shy Doe." Crying Coyote nodded, then accepted the bowl of stew Mourning Dove held out to him. Once the children were busy eating their evening meal, Mourning Dove offered a bowl of stew to Spotted Pony. "What has happened to Rushing Water?" Wildcat asked. Spotted Pony seated himself beside them and started to eat before answering. Once Snapping Turtle and Hawk joined them, he began to relate the story that seemed almost too incredible to be true. "As you know, Rushing Water had made her home close to the river. When the storms hit, she was told to leave her lodge and move to higher ground with everyone else. Crying Coyote was already with his friends when the river overflowed its banks. Rushing Water had thought of something she had forgotten and turned back. When the water receded, they found her body. Crying Coyote was staying with Makisa when I arrived in the village. I could not leave him behind." "Crying Coyote does not seem to have suffered too badly from his loss," Wildcat observed. "He is a child," Mourning Dove replied. "It was not that long ago when he lost his father. You were not there. You did not see the wounds and the blood. Then he found Spotted 255


Pony, only to have him leave the village, as well as the child. Rushing Water is but another adult to leave him." "Kit said the same thing," Spotted Pony commented. "I have talked to Shy Doe," Wildcat said. "I have told her of the special bond between you and Crying Coyote. We will watch over him while you go and bring her here." Mourning Dove excused herself to go to where the children were eating. She watched them for a moment before making her presence known. "I have made a decision without consulting either of you," she said as she seated herself between her children. "For that I am sorry. I feel that Wildcat will be a good husband to me, and a good father to you." Winter Moon turned to her with the wisdom of the ancients showing on his face. "If you are asking for our permission to be happy, it is not necessary. When Wildcat left us to return to his people, I was certain I would never have a father to guide me. The thought made me very unhappy." As much as Mourning Dove wanted to hug her son, she refrained. With Crying Coyote in their family circle, she knew such a show of emotion would embarrass Winter Moon. Instead, she put her arm around Little Butterfly. As she did, she could feel her daughter relax. It would not be long before she would sleep contentedly on the extra bed of furs in the healing lodge beside her brother. **** Wildcat knew Mourning Dove needed time alone with her children. No matter how much he wanted to go with her to 256


reassure them of the future he had planned for them, he remained by the fire with Hawk and Snapping Turtle. "Once you are joined with Mourning Dove, I will leave for home," Snapping Turtle said. "Seeing Winter Moon, Little Butterfly and Crying Coyote makes me long to be with Makisa again. By now her belly will be filled with our child and I do not want to miss even a moment of seeing it grow even larger as my child within her grows." "I, too, will be joining you in returning to my home," Hawk declared. "Order has been restored and Kicking Bear has a strong ally in Winter Hawk. Even the deaths of Red Sky and his followers have served a purpose. It was a wise decision for Winter Hawk to take the women and children who had been widowed and orphaned into his band. There they will be nurtured and treated with compassion, as those with Winter Hawk will welcome them into their midst." Wildcat agreed. Rather than dwell on his friends' return to their families and leaving him in this village to begin a new life, he turned his thoughts to Spotted Pony's story of Rushing Water's death. He could not help but remember his friend's reluctance to even hoist Crying Coyote to his shoulders at the time of the first buffalo hunt. "How do you think Shy Doe will feel about becoming Crying Coyote's mother?" Hawk asked. "Shy Doe, Mourning Dove and I have had some long talks about the boy," Wildcat replied. "Mourning Dove pointed out the special bond between Spotted Pony and Crying Coyote. She told Shy Doe that it was a shame that Spotted Pony could not be the boy's father. We both know that, although Rushing 257


Water loved her son, she had no idea of how to be a good mother. Her only concern was finding a man to satisfy her needs." "Why would you say such a thing?" Hawk inquired. Snapping Turtle was quick to answer his brother. "Rushing Water was stolen from her people as a small child and sold into slavery. Her life had been far from easy. During the time of her childhood, she was passed from household to household until Crying Coyote's father won her in a game of chance. I do not think he thought of her as anything but his property. Her only redeeming quality to him was that she gave him a son. I have been told that at the time of his death, he was planning a raid on another village to obtain a proper first wife. Had that happened, Rushing Water would have been only that woman's slave, and Crying Coyote would have been subservient to any children born of such a union. The gods have done the right thing for the boy. He is young enough to come to love and accept Spotted Pony as his father." Wildcat had not heard the stories about Rushing Water. With such a background it was no wonder that she seemed to put her needs for a man above those of her son. From the shadows, Wildcat saw Wading Bird and Proud Elk coming to join them at their fire. "We have come to see for ourselves that you do not walk with the ancestors, Brother," Wading Bird greeted him. "I cannot believe that the three most eligible bachelors in our village have each found a woman to share their lives," Proud Elk teased. 258


"My finding a wife should not come as such a surprise. I told you of my love for Mourning Dove before the exchange of Atiko for Snapping Turtle took place." "We thought we had talked you out of that," Wading Bird said. "After meeting Mourning Dove's children, and hearing of the life they have lived, we have changed our minds. For them to be as respectful as they are it has to be Mourning Dove's doing. We are all anxious to meet her." "She is with her children. She needs this time to be alone with them. She has missed them more than either of us thought possible. Perhaps it is best that I go to the lodge Kicking Bear has set side for our parents. I am certain they are in need of rest after their long journey, but I do desire to see them again." Wildcat got to his feet and followed his brother and brother-in-law to the lodge that had once been occupied by Red Sky and his family. He found his parents engaged in conversation with Kicking Bear. "It is good to see you, my son," his father greeted him, after getting to his feet to clasp Wildcat's arm. "For the third time in less than one complete passing of the seasons we have feared you were lost to us. When we heard of your injuries, we feared for your life. Does this marriage mean you will not be taking such chances in the future?" Wildcat laughed at his father's observations. "Had your son not taken such a chance, my youngest son would not have survived," Kicking Bear said, his voice laced with pride over the heroics Wildcat had displayed while in this village. "The gods sent him to our village for a purpose. Had 259


he not come to inquire about Mourning Dove, not only my son but also many of my men, including myself, would be walking with the ancestors. I am pleased to have him joining us as a leader of our people." Wildcat held his breath. How would his parents accept his decision to align himself with Kicking Bear's band? "My son has made a wise decision. Within our band, although he will be missed, he would have always been compared with Wading Bird and Proud Elk. Here he will be compared to no one but himself. My son has great potential that, if he were to stay in our village, might be lost. It is an honor to his mother as well as to me that he will be well respected in your village." Wildcat had never before heard his father speak of him in such glowing terms. Even his brother and Proud Elk looked at him with admiration. "Mourning Dove should have some time alone with her children tonight," his mother suggested. "They have missed her. Once the two of you are married tomorrow, they will have to share her with you. By the same token, we will be leaving soon. As a mother, I deserve time with my youngest son before he takes a wife. Since I have something for Mourning Dove, I will take it to her and tell her of the arrangements. It will give us time to get to know each other." Before Wildcat could protest, his mother was on her feet and leaving the lodge. ****

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Mourning Dove listened as Crying Coyote and Winter Moon described the flood, as well as the other happenings in the village, since she left to care for Wildcat. As they told their stories, Little Butterfly snuggled close to her mother's side. It took no time at all for Little Butterfly to drop off to sleep. Winter Moon told how Darma had taken them into her home and held Little Butterfly while she cried at night. The story tore at Mourning Dove's heart, but not as greatly as the one Crying Coyote told of losing his mother. It bothered her that Crying Coyote showed little emotion when describing how the river had swept his mother away and how her battered body had been found the next day. Hopefully Shy Doe and Spotted Pony would help him learn to grieve for what he had lost, and to forget the nightmare of seeing the dead bodies of both his parents. The boys began to yawn, prompting Mourning Dove to pick up Little Butterfly and take her to bed. "Tomorrow will be another day. For now, it is time for bed. We will have time for more stories when the sun is again above the horizon." "But we wanted to see Wildcat," Winter Moon protested. "There will be a lifetime to see Wildcat. For now, you must go to bed. The sky is filled with stars and soon the moon will be high in the heavens. It is time for sleep." Without further protest, the two boys went into the healing lodge and lay down on the second bed of furs along with Little Butterfly. Mourning Dove no more than covered them with a blanket of fur than they were asleep. Once Mourning Dove assured herself they would not awaken and be frightened, she went back outside to clean up 261


the bowls they had used for stew earlier. For tonight she would enjoy the solitude of being an unmarried woman. Tomorrow she would pledge her life and those of her children to Wildcat. She would live the life she had dreamed of as a child. For the rest of her days she would be a cherished wife. From the water that simmered over the fire, she brewed herself a cup of tea. Before she could sit down to enjoy it, as well as the fire, she saw a woman approaching her. To be hospitable, she put water into another cup to brew more tea. "I am told you are Mourning Dove," the woman said as she sat down at Mourning Dove's fire and accepted the refreshment that she offered. "Yes, I am Mourning Dove." It took little for her to realize this woman was Wildcat's mother, for she knew every other woman in the village. "I am Singing Wind, wife of Two Ponies and mother of Wading Bird and Wildcat. My son tells me you have stolen his heart. It does not surprise me that you have children, for my son loves children more than any man I have ever seen. He will make a good father. On our journey I became acquainted with Winter Moon, Little Butterfly and Crying Coyote. It pleases me that Spotted Pony will become father to Crying Coyote, as he will do right by the child. I think of Spotted Pony as though he were my own son, so now I will have three more grandchildren to spoil at the winter campgrounds." "It pleases me that my children were respectful to you. I always worry when they are not within my sight that they may not always follow the teachings I have tried to instill within them." 262


"You must know I have not come to talk of children. Since tomorrow you and my son will become as one, I have asked Wildcat to spend this night with his family. I felt you needed time alone with your children as well." Mourning Dove nodded. Although she knew she would miss having Wildcat sleeping beside her, she also understood the need of his family to spend this night with him in their midst. "You are more than considerate. I will enjoy being alone with my children. Before you leave I will give you a jar of ointment for Wildcat's legs. Even though they have healed nicely, I have applied the ointment in order to protect the new skin that has grown over the burns." Wildcat's mother held out a package wrapped in doeskin and tied with a leather thong. "This is the dress my husband's mother gave me on the eve of our wedding. I also gave it to Wading Bird's wife for her wedding. I do not think I need to tell you how proud of our son's actions we are. From what I have heard, I am equally proud to call you Daughter." Once they finished their tea, Wildcat's mother got to her feet and disappeared into the darkness. Mourning Dove continued to sit in front of the fire for a long time until the last of the embers died out. With the moon almost straight above her, she went into the lodge. The even breathing of the children brought back memories of the nights they had spent in Atiko's village. After taking off her clothes, she lay down on the bed of furs. The scent of Wildcat's body clung to them, reminding her of the man with whom she would share her life. She inhaled deeply before falling into a restful sleep. 263


In her dreams, an unknown voice told her this was her last night to sleep in the healing lodge as an unmarried woman. Tomorrow she and Wildcat would be married. They would move to the lodge he had been erecting for them. Rather than the three days of seclusion expected by new brides, she would be sharing her time with her children in the lodge. As Wildcat had said, their time alone had been while they waited for Spotted Pony to return with Winter Moon and Little Butterfly. Once she awakened, she turned to look at the children who still slept peacefully. If Spotted Pony and Shy Doe were to marry, they would not have time alone the way other young couples did. As she thought about it, a plan began to formulate in her mind. If she could persuade Spotted Pony and Shy Doe to marry at the same time as her and Wildcat, she would suggest that Crying Coyote stay at their lodge until the three days were over. There would be a lifetime for Shy Doe to bond with Crying Coyote, but bonding with her new husband was important as well.

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Chapter 21 Wildcat awoke early and made his way to the stream where the men of the village bathed. It seemed good to finally be able to join the others. With the burns on his legs, he had allowed Mourning Dove, as well as Blue Sky, to care for him. It was the will of the gods that he had healed so well and completely. "I was hoping I would meet you here," Spotted Pony said, as Wildcat got out of the water. "Shy Doe and I wanted to thank you and Mourning Dove for allowing Crying Coyote to stay in the healing lodge last night. We had a chance to talk about Shy Doe becoming a mother to Crying Coyote. She is anxious for this to happen, but we both agree that to return to our village now would not do Crying Coyote any good. He has suffered enough. We will not uproot him again." Wildcat could not help but smile. Having his friend with him would make staying easier. As the impact of Spotted Pony's words sunk in, the smile he had felt form on his face began to fade. Spotted Pony had left Crying Coyote with him and Mourning Dove, yet he had not been there to help her with the three children. He prayed she would understand his need to spend the night prior to their wedding with his family. "Shy Doe and I have decided to ask Black Cloud to marry us when he does so for you and Mourning Dove," Spotted Pony continued before Wildcat could comment. "We did not want to say anything to him without asking you first. While 265


we are talking, Shy Doe is asking Mourning Dove the same thing." "There is nothing I would like better than to share this special day with you. We have been friends all of our lives. To have you with me in this village would be an added blessing. I can only hope Mourning Dove will agree as well. I am shamed to say I was not with her last night as she looked after Crying Coyote for you. I spent the night in the lodge with my parents." "This is as it should be. I am certain Mourning Dove understands your need to spend time with your family. They are part of the reason Shy Doe and I want to share your special day. Since I will not see my family again until we reside at the winter campground together, I look to your family as my own. To have your parents, as well as Wading Bird and Proud Elk, here means much to me." Spotted Pony clasped Wildcat's arm in friendship. Wildcat could feel the bond he had shared with Spotted Pony strengthen even more as he watched his friend turn to go back to the lodge where he had spent the night with Shy Doe. Once he was again alone, Wildcat could not help but think of the day that stretched ahead of him. It would be a strange wedding day. As Wildcat's best friend, Spotted Pony would go to bring Mourning Dove to the area where they would be joined as one. At the same time, he would do the same for Shy Doe. Never in his memory could he recall two men acting as best friends for each other on their own wedding day. **** 266


Mourning Dove fed the children their morning meal before she sent the boys off to play with the other youngsters their age. Little Butterfly played close to where Mourning Dove cleaned the bowls they had used for their meal. In the distance, she saw Shy Doe coming toward the healing lodge. For an instant she was afraid her friend would reject Crying Coyote. If she did, Mourning Dove decided to ask Wildcat if Crying Coyote could become part of their family. "I thank you for allowing Crying Coyote to sleep with your children last night," Shy Doe said, once she accepted a cup of tea from Mourning Dove. "I have come to ask a question of you." "If your question is concerning Crying Coyote, I have already decided to ask Wildcat to include him in our family if you do not want him." Shy Doe's face mirrored an expression of shock. "How could you think I would ever deny a child? Crying Coyote is special to the man I love. If I expect to share my life with Spotted Pony there is no way I could deny the child who has become so much a part of his life. Becoming a mother without losing my virginity was not what I thought would happen when I became a wife, but both Spotted Pony and Snapping Turtle have assured me that Crying Coyote is a very special young brave." "I am ashamed to have harbored such a thought, but I am also fond of the boy. He has lost so very much, I only want his happiness. When Spotted Pony first showed him any attention he told my son that Spotted Pony was the father he 267


wanted. When I heard that, I worried about the boy. No matter how Spotted Pony felt about Crying Coyote, he would have never married a woman he did not love in order to make a child's wish come true. It broke my heart to see his dreams crushed when Spotted Pony and Wildcat left the village." "Did it not break your heart to have Wildcat leave you?" "Yes, it did, but I thought I had done the right thing by turning down his proposal of marriage. I could not come to him with two children my people considered tainted. At the same time, I could not bring the shame of Fighting Beaver's banishment upon him. In the eyes of my people I was considered as guilty as the man I followed to save the life of my unborn child. I felt he deserved better in a wife." "I am pleased that Wildcat came here to seek the truth about you. Had he not come, Spotted Pony would not have accompanied him. That brings me to the reason for my visit. Spotted Pony and I would like to be married at the same time as you and Wildcat. I told him we could not consider it without your blessing." Mourning Dove wanted to sing for joy. She knew having Spotted Pony and Shy Doe becoming one on the same day as she and Wildcat would be of great comfort to her soon-to-be husband. It would make the fact that he was aligning himself with a new village less difficult. At least his friend would share the day of his joy. "I am certain that will be acceptable. Are you and Spotted Pony leaving with Snapping Turtle, Hawk and Wildcat's family tomorrow?" Shy Doe's expression told Mourning Dove that the question surprised her friend. "We have decided that for Crying 268


Coyote's sake it would be best if we align ourselves with this village. When Spotted Pony was in his village he told his parents of his plans to stay here." "How could he have known about Crying Coyote's situation? I understood he went to Hawk's village first." "He did, but Wildcat's family wanted time to prepare for the journey, so Spotted Pony went on to Snapping Turtle's village alone, then returned. When he did, he had Crying Coyote, as well as your children, with him. His parents understood immediately." "Why did they not accompany him as well?" "They are older than Wildcat's parents. A long journey so soon after the return from the winter campgrounds was not possible. They have promised that when we return from the next winter gathering they will make their home with us." Mourning Dove sipped her tea as she allowed her mind to absorb all of what Shy Doe had said. "Your decision is a logical one. Since your wedding must be special, allow your new son to stay with us for the three days of marital seclusion." "But what of your seclusion?" "I am not a virgin. I have children of my own who will be sharing our lodge. Besides, Wildcat and I have had many nights alone. We have done the exploration that is done without one's children in the lodge." Before Shy Doe could answer, Wildcat and Spotted Pony approached the lodge from different directions. Upon seeing one another they both began to laugh. 269


"Our women are already talking," Wildcat said. "By the expressions on their faces, it is entirely possible that Black Cloud will be joining both of us in marriage at the same time." "Then Wildcat agreed as well," Mourning Dove observed. "Yes, and once he did I went to ask Black Cloud to bless our union at the same time as yours," Spotted Pony said. "I am surprised to see my friend returning at the same time as me, as I made the stop at Black Cloud's lodge." "I too made a stop. I went to tell my parents the news of your marriage. While I was there they insisted on taking all three of the children for the three days of marital seclusion. I told them it was not necessary, but they insisted. They have accepted Kicking Bear's invitation to stay in the village for a long overdue visit until we go to the winter campground. My mother is already planning how she can spoil all of her new grandchildren, as she considers you as another son." Mourning Dove did not try to hide her pleasure at Wildcat's parents' generous offer. "If we are to be married on this day, the two of you must leave. Take the children to your parents, as Shy Doe and I must prepare for the ceremony." "My dress," Shy Doe said. "Please Spotted Pony, you must send someone to my parents' lodge so my mother can bring me the dress your mother sent for me to wear. You must also send Mourning Dove's mother to us. When it is time for the ceremony, send Hawk and Snapping Turtle to get us. We have already seen too much of you on our wedding day." "But I thought I would be the one to bring Mourning Dove to Wildcat," Spotted Pony protested. 270


"I also thought I would be the one to bring Shy Doe to Spotted Pony," Wildcat added. "Then both of you were wrong. Now get out of our sight." Mourning Dove wanted to laugh at the way Shy Doe took charge. While all Mourning Dove could think of was becoming Wildcat's wife, the younger woman had not forgotten the traditions involved with marriage. Together they went into the lodge until the men found the children and left the area. "I was so concerned about my dress, I did not think about one for you," Shy Doe confessed. For the first time Mourning Dove thought of the package Wildcat's mother had given her the night before. "Last night Wildcat's mother brought me a gift. She told me it was the dress her husband's mother gave to her to wear on her wedding day. I did not even look at it because I did not want to disturb the children." Without hesitation, she went to the area by her sleeping furs where she had put the package the night before. Once she untied the leather thong that held the protective covering together, she took the white doeskin dress from the package. Both women gasped at the beauty of the design embroidered on the bodice in brightly colored quills and threads. Mourning Dove knew that Wildcat would be given a shirt with a matching pattern. She was certain the dress Spotted Pony had brought for Shy Doe would be equally beautiful. ****

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Wildcat carried Little Butterfly in his arms while Winter Moon and Crying Coyote followed behind them. "Why do we have to stay with Wildcat's mother and father?" Crying Coyote asked. "Why can we not stay at Mourning Dove's lodge?" Before either Wildcat or Spotted Pony could turn back to make an explanation, Winter Moon took the task from them. "My mother is going to marry Wildcat before sunset tonight. At the same time Shy Doe is going to marry Spotted Pony. Women need to be alone to prepare for such a thing. Men must also prepare, only in a different way." "How do you know this?" Wildcat asked, turning to the two boys. "My mother told me of this when a young couple were going to be married in our old village. I asked many questions about the tradition of marriage. My father told me it was not for boys to concern themselves with but my mother told me many things. When my father heard her, he hit her for the explanation, and me for asking the question. I have never forgotten her answers." Wildcat marveled at the boy's memory. He knew the battle at the village of the outcasts had taken place when the snow was deep. For one to remember something that took place so long ago was amazing. Equally amazing was the fact that the beating that resulted from an innocent question had not driven the entire conversation to the far reaches of Winter Moon's memory. "You will be staying with Wildcat's parents so that we can get to know Shy Doe and Mourning Dove better." 272


The two boys covered their mouths with their hands to hide their knowing smiles. Wildcat knew they both had watched what their parents did at night. It was natural in every family he had ever known.

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Chapter 22 Black Cloud's chant combined with the steam of the sweat lodge to bring on visions within Wildcat's mind. Although Spotted Pony, Wading Bird, Proud Elk and Wildcat's father, Two Ponies, shared the lodge with him and Black Cloud, it felt as though there were only the two of them present. Behind his closed lids, he saw himself and Mourning Dove surrounded by many children. Winter Moon was a tall young man who stood next to a beautiful young woman and held the hand of a little girl. Little Butterfly stood beside a man who looked foreign to him and carried a tiny boy in her arms. Along with them were many children who carried a close resemblance to both him and Mourning Dove. The chant ended and with its end came the conclusion to the pleasant vision of the future. Upon opening his eyes he was again surrounded by his friends, as well as his family. He looked over at Spotted Pony and saw that he had an odd expression on his face. "I can see these two young men have been both granted visions of their future. Remember, these are only visions. The future is yours to shape. The young women you have chosen to spend your lives with are both special. They too are embarking upon a new beginning in their lives. For the first time, a man will take a woman who is not a virgin as his first wife. Mourning Dove comes to you without her virginity and with two children. You must accept her for what she is and her children for who they are. Shy Doe will be a mother 274


without losing her virginity. Children are a blessing to any marriage, but when the children come before the marriage, the man who accepts them is very special indeed. May the gods bless each of you with the love and understanding both the women and the children need for happiness within their lives." When Black Cloud finished speaking, a hush hung over the sweat lodge. The words the old shaman had spoken were unlike anything these men had ever heard in the marital preparations. The future had been shown to them. Black Cloud's predictions had given validity to everything that had been revealed, as well as the true nature of these two marriages. Wildcat prayed to the gods that he was worthy of the task he was about to undertake. Once they stepped from the sweat lodge, Wildcat was surprised to find the hot afternoon breeze felt cool against his overheated skin. After his vision, he expected the village, the whole world for that matter, to look different to him. To his amazement, the sky was still a brilliant blue with fluffy white clouds. The sun still shone from its position in the western horizon and the grass was still green. The encampment bustled with the usual activity. Women ground grain, children played games, and dogs lay sleeping in the heat of the afternoon sun. "You have a strange expression on your face, Brother," Wading Bird observed. "Are you still under the influence of the vision Black Cloud is certain you have received?" "Perhaps I am," Wildcat replied. "Even though the village looks the same as when I entered the sweat lodge, I feel as 275


though everything has changed. Did you feel this way when you experienced the marital sweat?" "Life changes every time a sweat is performed in your honor. Today was the first of many changes your life will take. The very fact that our parents have decided to stay in this village until winter will be a change for all of us. It is only right that they spend time with Kicking Bear and get better acquainted with Mourning Dove, as well as your children." It pleased Wildcat to hear his older brother acknowledge Winter Moon and Little Butterfly as part of their family. He had expected opposition, not acceptance. **** The healing lodge bustled with activity. Blue Sky, as well as the mothers of Wildcat and Shy Doe, fussed over the two young women who would soon join their lives to the men they loved. While Shy Doe's hair hung loose over her shoulders and down her back to signify her virginity, Blue Sky fashioned Mourning Dove's hair into an elaborate braid. Summer flowers that were in abundance were worked into not only Mourning Dove's braid, but also Shy Doe's long locks. The dress Wildcat's mother had brought for Mourning Dove to wear caressed her body as though it had been fashioned especially for her. A glance toward her own mother told her she looked as elegant as she felt. Tears glistened in Blue Sky's eyes as they did in the eyes of Wildcat and Shy Doe's mothers. 276


"You both look so beautiful," Wildcat's mother proclaimed. "I know I am not Spotted Pony's mother, but those three boys spent so much time at my hearth, I claim each of them as my own. Both of you are lucky in having them as husbands, as they are in their choice of wives." The compliment warmed Mourning Dove's heart. She had expected opposition from Wildcat's family rather than acceptance. The very thought of his parents taking all three children so that the two young couples could enjoy the full three days of marital seclusion was surprising. It was a gesture that Mourning Dove hoped she could find a way to repay before the trek to the winter campground. **** The sun had sunk low in the western sky, turning its blue to brilliant reds and delicate pinks. A cool breeze blew in from the north, signaling the coming of evening to the village. Men, women and children sat in a semi circle, leaving enough room for the two couples that were pledging their lives to one another to enter. Wildcat glanced across to where his mother sat with Blue Sky and Shy Doe's mother. With them, the three children who would become such an important part of these unions, sat as though in awe of what was about to take place. Before the moon made its appearance in the night sky two new families would be established in one of the most unprecedented ceremonies anyone could remember. The rhythm of the drums changed as Wildcat and Spotted Pony walked into the circle. Two Ponies stood by his side, 277


while Wading Bird did the same for Spotted Pony. As they made their way to the far end of the circle where Black Cloud waited for them, the crowd became silent. For Wildcat such awe was unnatural. He was used to the chatter of the children who enjoyed his stories and attentions. They had just turned toward the opening when Hawk entered the circle escorting Mourning Dove toward him. Behind him Snapping Turtle brought Shy Doe forward. Both women were beautiful in the dresses that matched the shirts he and Spotted Pony wore. As Mourning Dove came closer, Wildcat held out his hands in the way he had seen so many other men do when they pledged their lives to the women who were to become their wives. The feel of her hands in his told him this was right. For today, tomorrow and always they would be as one. Her children would be his, and the children of his seed would be loved and cherished. Once Black Cloud said the words to bind them together, Wildcat took Mourning Dove in his arms and kissed her tenderly. "This is my wife, my life mate and my lover. From this day forward, we will be together," he declared so that all of the people assembled could hear him. In like manner, Spotted Pony said the same words in reference to Shy Doe. When the last word was uttered, each man took his wife's hand in his own and lifted it high to signify their new union. As though they had practiced what to do, Winter Moon, Little Butterfly and Crying Coyote got to their feet and rushed to be with their parents. Little Butterfly held out her arms for 278


Wildcat to pick her up, while Winter Moon stood between Wildcat and Mourning Dove so he could hold the hands of both his parents. Crying Coyote also stood between the two people who had opened their hearts and their home to him. "These two young families are the future of our people," Kicking Bear declared. "Wildcat and Spotted Pony have agreed to align themselves with our village, to rebuild the trust those vipers who were within our midst destroyed. With their help and guidance, we will once again become highly respected by those of the twelve bands." Cheers reverberated from every sector of the village. When they led the people to the feast the women had prepared, Wildcat saw those of Winter Hawk's band had been invited. For the first time in seven winters, the peoples of Kicking Bear and Winter Hawk's bands were as one. The differences that had driven them so far apart had disappeared and in doing so brought them back together. It was the hands of the gods that had led him to Kicking Bear's village to learn why Mourning Dove had denied him. Had Wildcat not come, Kicking Bear's son would walk with the ancestors. Had he not come and fought for his life, Mourning Dove would still be living with the shame associated with being Fighting Beaver's widow. Today a new day was dawning, and with it came acceptance, as well as a new life and family for Wildcat. Never in his life had he ever been happier. 279


EPILOGUE Wildcat and Mourning Dove prepared for the trek to the winter campgrounds. Beneath Mourning Dove's breast Wildcat could see his child beginning to grow. Even before Mourning Dove told him of the child, his mother had hinted at its existence. Shy Doe also had a child growing within her lovely body. Because of this, Wildcat and Spotted Pony had raided the wild herd to obtain suitable mares, so their wives would not have to walk on the trek to the winter campgrounds. Wildcat had thought his father would call them foolish, but instead he had congratulated Wildcat and Spotted Pony for their consideration of their wives. Over the summer Winter Moon and Little Butterfly had both grown and accepted him as their father. Likewise, Crying Coyote had also adapted well to his new parents. A joyous cry from the opposite end of the camp signaled the arrival of Winter Hawk's band. Together they would travel to the south and west, until they reached the mounds of the ancients and the reunion with family and friends. As the sun climbed high in the heavens, they started the trek that would take them to the warm weather of the winter campgrounds. **** After many days of travel, they at last came to the mounds of the ancients. Wildcat was pleased to see that theirs were the first bands to arrive, giving them the choice areas in 280


which to set up their camps. He and Black Cloud had engaged in many conversations that revolved around showing the wonders of the mounds to Winter Moon and with their early arrival, they were able to camp just at the north edge of the mounds that so fascinated everyone in the twelve bands. Anticipation grew as Wildcat remembered how his father and grandfather had introduced him to the mounds when he was Winter Moon's age. Early on the first morning after their arrival, Wildcat, Black Cloud, Two Ponies and Winter Moon walked toward the mounds. As always happened, Wildcat's heart beat faster and harder when he saw the mounds rising from the grass-filled prairie. "Long ago," Black Cloud began, "an ancient people lived here. In honor of their gods, they built these mounds." Wildcat listened in awe, as he had when Serpent's Wing had told him the same story so long ago. He was so enthralled with Black Cloud's rendition of it, he did not feel Winter Moon release his hand. "Ssh, Grandfather," Winter Moon said, putting his finger to his lips. In doing so, Wildcat felt the magic he associated with this place accelerate. "You will scare them." Wildcat knelt in front of his son. "Who will we scare?" Winter Moon pointed beyond Wildcat to the expanse of grass and mounds before them. "Them, the people building the mound. Do you not see them? Do you not hear their song?" "Do you understand the words of their song?" Black Cloud asked. 281


Winter Moon nodded. "Can you tell us the words they are singing?" Again the child nodded. As he did he stepped toward the vision he, and he alone, could see. Silently he communicated with the unseen people. When he turned back, Winter Moon began to sing the words that had been silent for far too long. "We are the people We serve the Sun. We build the mounds So the Sun who Resides with us can reach The sun in the sky. We sing as we work So the Sun will Hear our words and Bless our labors. Praise to the sun that Warms us. Praise to the Sun Who protects us. Praise to all of nature. Praise to all of The gods that Protect us." Pride for his son swelled in Wildcat's heart. When he looked up at Black Cloud, he saw tears running down the old man's weathered cheeks. "You have done well, Winter Moon," Black Cloud said. "Even though it will be many winters before you become a 282


man, on this day you have earned your manhood name. From this day forward you will be known as Vision Seeker. The people you have seen, and the song you have heard, belong to the ancients. For many years I have heard the song, but the gods have withheld the meaning of the words from me. On this day a new shaman has been born. When I walk with the ancestors, it will be with great pride, for now I know the meaning of the song of the ancients. Sing the words over and over again, Vision Seeker, until you know them by heart, for they represent the shaman's powers that have been bestowed upon you by the gods." Vision Seeker turned toward Wildcat. "Will I really be a shaman, Father?" Wildcat nodded as he tried to dislodge the lump of pride that filled his throat. "From this day forward you will study with Black Cloud to learn the craft that will be the path your life is destined to take." "Can I learn to hunt as well, Grandfather?" "It is not usual for a shaman to also be a hunter, but you are an unusual young man. With Wildcat to train you in the art of hunting, you will become a great leader of our people." **** Mourning Dove lay in the arms of her husband. The even breathing of her children told her they slept peacefully. "I cannot believe my son was given his manhood name this day." "I was there and saw his transformation for myself. He will still spend time with his friends, but he will also study the 283


ways of the shaman with Black Cloud and learn to hunt at my side." Wildcat's hand slid to the bulge of Mourning Dove's belly. "Like all of our children, he is destined for great things." Mourning Dove's hand moved to Wildcat's manhood. "This is where our future children will inherit their greatness." With her free hand she caressed first his hand, then his face. "This is where Vision Seeker and Little Butterfly will learn greatness." Wildcat kissed her tenderly, then made love to her as he had during their marital seclusion. "Everything that happens does so for a reason," he whispered, once he held her in his embrace. "Had you stayed in this village when Fighting Beaver was banished, you would have watched the future of these people be destroyed. Today, Vision Seeker's life took a new path. It is one we will both enjoy watching as he matures."

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mild Mannered receptionist, wife, mother and grandmother by day, Sherry Derr-Wille spends her nights writing and writing and writing. Having been inspired by an English assignment in her sophomore year of high school, she had never quite finished the assignment. New stories pop into her head every day with never enough time to write them all. A Wisconsin native, she grew up a country girl, but enjoys her "city" home. She and her husband of forty years, Bob, live in a mid-sized town close to the Illinois border, where she works as a receptionist for a local new car dealership and he is a bookkeeper for a propane company just a few miles up the road. Deeming Bob "A Saint" for putting up with her, she has never regretted marrying her high school sweetheart just two days after graduation in 1964. For your reading pleasure, we welcome you to visit our web bookstore

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com 285


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