Courage of a Medicine Woman

By David Halterman and Laura Troester

Settled high on a Mountain. Mighty Arrow was Chief of his people and was married to Falling Leaf. They had a big family of four girls. Falling Leaf had given birth to another daughter. They named her Bright Star. Bright Star announced one day that she wanted to become the next medicine woman of her village. Falling Leaf knew only men were Shamans. That did not discourage Bright Star.

As Bright Star grew up she had to battle an attack on her village and being captured. Almost being raped and the loss of her first child, she became ill. Almost every time something happened to Bright Star she underwent some kind of initiation. Every time she came back Little Eagle was right by her side. Together they could go through anything that got in their way.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jul 6, 2010
• ISBN: 9781465316356

David Halterman

Laura Troester lives in South West sunny Florida. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and grew up with two wonderful parents, and four sisters. She was born with a heart condition. She met and fell in love with her soul mate and life partner David Halterman in Philadelphia. They had a son however, inherited her heart condition and lived for only three months. Her sister Lisa however, also pregnant at that time offered them her baby. She was a beautiful baby girl with blonde hair and blue eyes and they named her, Michele Lisa Troester. In 2005, she had a heart failure and was brought to the ER where she almost died due to wrong medications. She then came to know another cardiologist who saved her life and given her the right meds. Her life partner and soul mate, has been fantastic through it all when she had to travel to Tampa Florida, to see her cardiologist. After she became a lot better, she had this wonderful idea to write a book as she was truly inspired.

Book preview

Courage of a

Medicine Woman

62273-TROE-layout.pdf

Written By:

Laura Troester

(Pebbling Flowing)

2010

Copyright © 2010 by Laura Troester.

All rights reserved. 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 copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

This book was printed in the United States of America.

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

Xlibris Corporation

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

[e-mail]

62273

Contents

Acknowledgements

Introduction

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

Chapter Twenty Three

Chapter Twenty Four

Chapter Twenty Five

Chapter Twenty Six

Chapter twenty Seven

Chapter Twenty Eight

Chapter Twenty Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty One

Chapter Thirty Two

Chapter Thirty Three

Chapter Thirty Four

Chapter Thirty Five

Chapter Thirty Six

Chapter Thirty Seven

Chapter Thirty Eight

Chapter Thirty Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty One

Chapter Forty Two

Chapter Forty Three

Chapter Forty Four

Chapter Forty Five

Chapter Forty Six

Chapter Forty Seven

Chapter Forty Eight

Chapter Forty Nine

Chapter Fifty

Chapter Fifty One

Chapter Fifty Two

Chapter Fifty Three

Chapter Fifty Four

Chapter Fifty Five

Chapter Fifty Six

Chapter Fifty Seven

Chapter Fifty Eight

Chapter Fifty Nine

Chapter Sixty

Acknowledgements

WITH MUCH LOVE I want to thank the wonderful people, who helped support me while I was writing my book.

I want to thank the love of my life David Halterman, for his support, and helping with the editing of my book. I want to thank David once again for doing the art work.

Also I want to thank my very dear friend, who also helped with the editing. With much love to Bobbie Price.

Introduction

THE STORY IS about the tough time Native Americans had with life. It is about one woman’s struggle, to become a medicine woman. Women were not permitted to become a shaman. She has to overcome very tough times, illness, and deaths. She had many visions. She fell deeply in love with her child hood friend. His name is Little Eagle. Her name is Bright Star. In my book, I had used several Indian words. They are in Cherokee. You can refer to this list.

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Chapter One

Tennessee Territory

1850

HIGH UP ON the Tennessee mountain, the snow was falling down from the sky. The village was covered by a blanket of white shimmering snow. The warriors were racing their Soquli*, to get them ready for a big hunt in a few sunrises. The Soquili* were not given a good workout for many Udosv.* It was good for the Soquili* and the warriors. The village was a white wonderland. Falling Leaf and Mighty Arrow had just finished their morning meal. I think it is time to go and get White Deer., Falling Leaf urged. Mighty Arrow had a big smile on his face. You are very sure my wife?, Mighty Arrow asked, feeling the excitement. Yes! Now please go and hurry!, Falling Leaf pleaded.

Mighty Arrow ran out of their lodge. He found White Deer outside with Silver Wing, White Deer’s husband. White Deer!, Mighty Arrow yelled. He stopped short in front of her. White Deer, please go to Falling Leaf! Now it is time!, Mighty Arrow said, acting very worried. OK! Calm down my chief! I am on the way!, White Deer replied. Well, congratulations. You are about to become a Agidoda* again!, Silver Wing said with excitement. That was all that Mighty Arrow could get out. He was so nervous this time around. Mighty Arrow started to pace back and forth. My chief, why are you so nervous this time around?, Silver Wing wondered. You have been through this before. I don’t know. I just can’t help it. I am not this young warrior anymore., Mighty Arrow said, feeling his age. I know that feeling well. I hope I do not go through this again either., Silver Wing said, remembering his wife. Well, you only have two now Silver Wing., Mighty Arrow said, chuckling. Gray Fox is a little older now at least., Silver Wing remembered. I remember you were very nervous when Little Eagle was born., Mighty Arrow said. So do I., Silver Wing answered. I don’t know why White Deer had not become with child again. I know we have tried." Mighty Arrow started to pace again.

White Deer was by Falling Leaf’s side, helping her to bring this child into the world. Falling Leaf was pushing and breathing very hard. This was getting really difficult for her. She was not young anymore, either. This would have to be their last Usdi.* Finally, the Usdi* was born. It’s a girl!, White Deer yelled out. She was so happy for Falling Leaf, her good friend. A girl?, asked Falling Leaf. Yes, oh yes, a beautiful Usdi* girl with thick black hair too!, White Deer commented. Oh how wonderful!, Falling Leaf sighed. She is so beautiful., White Deer said, while handing the newborn over to Falling Leaf. Falling Leaf smiled at her crying daughter. With tears in her Tsiktoti,* Falling Leaf urged, Please go and get Mighty Arrow. Yes! Right away!, White Deer said, running from the lodge. It’s a girl!, she yelled out, all the way over to Mighty Arrow. A girl?, Mighty Arrow asked. Yes! A beautiful girl! Now go to your wife my chief! They are waiting!, White Deer said, feeling so joyful for her chief. Mighty Arrow ran to his lodge. He stopped short, when he saw his wife and the newborn she was holding in her arms. Falling Leaf looked over at Mighty Arrow. Come and look at your new Udsi girl. Mighty Arrow looked down at his beautiful daughter and smiled. You are not disappointed my Uyehi*? No, why on earth would you think that?, Mighty Arrow asked, reaching down for their new daughter. Well, its just that I could never give you sons., Falling Leaf said with a sigh. My wife, you did a fine job! Yes, a real fine job! Don’t you ever worry about not giving me sons. I love all of my daughters., Mighty Arrow answered, looking down at the newborn. It is now time to go out and show our people this beautiful daughter, and it is time to name her. But Uyehi,* it is too cold out there now! Falling Leaf tried to argue. I see! But you know that it is our custom., Mighty Arrow reminded her. Before she could say another word, Mighty Arrow ran out of the lodge with their daughter. Everyone in the village turned to look as Mighty Arrow came from his lodge holding the new-born child. Everyone cheered. The Usdi* cried. It was way too much noise for her. It is now time to name this new child of mine., Mighty Arrow said and was so proud.

Just then, the gray covered clouds parted and a bright star appeared. Mighty Arrow had his sign. Bright Star! Her name will be Bright Star!, Mighty Arrow said in awe. Everyone cheered for the new name. No one else had seen what their chief saw, or when the bright star was shown to him. Mighty Arrow took Bright Star back to her Aluli.* Did you give her a name? I heard everyone cheering., Falling Leaf asked, wondering. Yes my wife! You will not believe what I saw! Mighty Arrow was most excited. Oh do tell me.!, Falling Leaf said. Well, I just happened to look up to the sky, then all of a sudden, the gray color clouds parted, as though if only for me to see. I knew it then. Our daughter’s name… . Bright Star., Mighty Arrow told her. Oh how beautiful! Yes, I just love it! It is so perfect for her!", Falling Leaf chimed. All of their other daughters came back home to see their new Agilvgi*. White Deer and Silver Wing were with them. They all surrounded their parents, loving their new Agilvgi* and wanting to hold her. One by one, they all took turns. Then it was time to feed Bright Star and put her down for a nap. Falling Leaf needed the rest too. The next sunrise, a name ceremony would take place. It was custom for their Shaman to help the new name stick. The night was peaceful. No snow came this night. It was bitter cold though. Falling Leaf kept waking up to make sure that Bright Star was covered up. The sun was now peeking up from the mountain tops. They all dressed very warm, and soon were walking through the snow. The central Ayetas* was burning bright, and high sparks were trying to reach the sky. All of the people were dressed up in their finer cloths. They did this out of respect for the newborn. Mighty Arrow and Falling Leaf handed Bright Star over to their Shaman, Red Wolf. Red Wolf took Bright Star very gently, as if she was his very own. He lifted her high to the heavens. He turned in each direction, then above and below. He said her name out loud every time, so the world would hear him and all of the people. He turned to Bright Star’s parents. Now, her name Bright Star will stick! Enjoy her! Love her to the fullest!, Red Wolf said, completing the ceremony. All of the people will help you raise her! So be it!, Red Wolf declared.

Falling Leaf came to sit by her Uyehi*. She was done feeding Bright Star. Is Bright Star fast asleep?, Mighty Arrow asked, with a thought in his mind. Yes. She ate her fill, closed her Tsiktoti* and was very satisfied., Falling Leaf answered. Falling Leaf saw Mighty Arrow staring at the flames of the Ayetas* again. The Cherokee lived in a hut. It was made out of earth, bark and wood. They had a decent size lodge, for he was the chief of their people. My darling, are you thinking about the hunt this sunrise?, Falling Leaf asked. Yes I am. I am really looking forward to this hunt., Mighty Arrow sighed. Then why do you look so worried?, Falling Leaf asked, as she touched his arm Well, we have some new braves going out with us. They are just so eager. I just don’t want anyone to get hurt., Mighty Arrow said thoughtfully Well, I know they will listen to you guide them in every way., Falling Leaf reminded him. I guess you are right my wife. You know I just get this way every time., Mighty Arrow answered truthfully. I know it. But as you remember, it always turns out good., Falling Leaf said, encouraging him. Mighty Arrow stood up and kissed her on the lips. I have to go now, and meet up with Silver Wing., Mighty Arrow informed her. Yes. The sooner you go, the faster you will get back to me. I wish I could go with you like I used to., Falling Leaf sighed. So do I, but you have to stay here and watch over our children., Mighty Arrow replied. She walked Mighty Arrow to the door. As cold as it was, she watched him walk over to Silver Wing. Most of the young braves and the older warriors would be gathering by the corral. It would be a great hunt.

Tonight would be for her and Mighty Arrow to be alone. Their daughters would be off at their Aunt’s lodge for the night. Falling Leaf would just keep Bright Star home. She would sleep most of the night. White Deer came over holding Little Eagle in her arms. Little Eagle was five winters old. Would you like some company and we could visit and have a nice cup of herb tea?, White Deer asked, wanting the company for herself. Why yes, I think that I could use a hot cup., Falling Leaf said, always enjoying White Deer’s company. I know how you get when Mighty Arrow leaves for a hunt!, White Deer said, looking at her best friend’s Tsiktoti*. Yes I know. I should really be used to it by now, but I’m not. How do you stay so calm?, Falling Leaf needed to know. Oh trust me! I am not all that calm inside! I am shaking like it was ten below zero !, White Deer said with a chuckle. Falling Leaf smiled at her good friend. Falling Leaf was now alone again.

Falling Leaf cooked the evening meal. She fed Bright Star and put her and her Agilivgi* to bed. Yellow Blossom was having dinner with Gray Fox and his family. Falling Leaf was anxiously waiting for Mighty Arrow to return home. Falling Leaf picked up her sewing again, trying to think of something else, anything else. Falling Leaf soon fell asleep. She dreamed of Mighty Arrow coming home with so many buffalo, they would never have to hunt for any more. The people used the buffalo for everything. The buffalo was such a big animal. She was so lost in her dream, she did not even hear the warriors come home. Mighty Arrow got worried when he did not see his wife come out to greet him. Mighty Arrow ran to his lodge. He stopped short when he saw her sound asleep on the chair that he had made for them. In her hands was her sewing. He went in and checked on Bright Star. She was sleeping soundly. Mighty Arrow knew the other children were going to stay with White Deer. The nights after the hunt was always for them. Mighty Arrow kissed his wife softly on the neck and worked his way up to her lips. Falling Leaf woke up to gazing into his midnight black Tsiktoti.*

She hugged him tightly. The hunt went well?, Falling Leaf asked. Shhhh, let us talk of that later on.. Mighty Arrow said, sounding very husky. He picked her up in his strong arms and her sewing dropped to the floor. The hunt always did something to Mighty Arrow. It made him strong with anticipation… . got his blood pumping and he was ready for love when he got home. Falling Leaf always loved it when he returned home to her. Mighty Arrow gently put her down on their bed of furs. He never stopped kissing her. Her lips, neck. Then he removed her dress and then her Tsulawa*. Falling Leaf loved it when Mighty Arrow took charge. He would only be in charge like this after a hunt. He was always very strong after a hunt. He cupped her breasts, then ran his fingers down her stomach. He kissed her nipples. Oh, she would moan and toss her head. Their love making was priceless. He slid his manhood inside of her. Her legs went wide open for him. He never stopped kissing her nipples. She arched her back up. Her juices would flow even better now. She was one with him now. They were flying high together. Oh how sweet it was, sweet like honey. He squeezed her breasts one more time. Mighty Arrow pumped hard, then he spilled his seed inside of his beautiful wife. He rolled off and rested on his back. They waited for their breathing to become regular again. Falling Leaf was the first to speak. Oh my darling, how I love you so., Falling Leaf said, tracing his face. I love you so much my wife., Mighty Arrow said kissing her. Then he sat up and traced her cheek with his finger. My woman, I will never grow tired of making sweet love with you. It is like when we were young again., Mighty Arrow said, remembering. Oh my sweet warrior, I do know what you mean. I always look forward to these special times also., Falling Leaf said. They kissed each other. Then Bright Star started to cry. I will go and feed her and then come back to you., Falling Leaf said anxiously. Yes! Go now and hurry!, Mighty Arrow replied. After Falling Leaf fed Bright Star she went back to her Uyehi.* Falling Leaf found him fast asleep.

As the years went by, all had been peaceful in Mighty Arrow’s village. Falling Leaf and Mighty Arrow watched their children grow and become beautiful women. Bright Star was now at the age of five winters old. Mighty Arrow and Falling Leaf were finishing up their morning meal. Mighty Arrow stretched his arms. Bright Star ran over to give him a big hug. It is like she knows I am going out., Mighty Arrow said, hugging Bright Star. I know. I was thinking the same thing., Falling Leaf said, watching her family hug. Are you having a council this morning?, Falling Leaf asked, wondering. No. No council is needed, but I do want to go to the corral and check on the Soquili*. Maybe later on, we can go out on a ride., Mighty Arrow suggested. OK. Yes, I would love that my darling. The weather is getting nice again., Falling Leaf remarked. Yes, Spring is just about here., Mighty Arrow contemplated. I will be glad also. Then the herbs will grow back again.

Falling Leaf loved the herbs so. Yes, I do love when you cook with them. It is very tasty., Mighty Arrow said, complimenting. Mighty Arrow loved his wife’s cooking. Falling Leaf and Bright Star walked Mighty Arrow outside. White Deer came over with Little Eagle by her side. Little Eagle would tap Bright Star on her arm. He would say, Tag you’re it! Bright Star would then run after Little Eagle. It seemed that was their favorite game. The women sat down on blankets and picked up their sewing. This is such a wonderful time of year., White Deer said, enjoying the weather. Oh yes. It is just beautiful out here., Falling Leaf agreed. They sat outside until Mighty Arrow came by on his beautiful Soquili.* White Deer, would you mind if I took my lovely wife on a little ride before the noon meal? Could you watch over the children? I won’t be long. I promise!, Mighty Arrow asked, smiling. It’s all right. You two go and have a good ride. It will be good for you!, White Deer said to her chief. Wado.* Thankyou., said Falling Leaf. Falling Leaf and Mighty Arrow enjoyed their ride.

The weather was getting warmer now and the herbs would be growing by now. The next sunrise, Falling Leaf was finishing their morning meal. Mighty Arrow was going off to hunt for food and to train with the younger braves. Yellow Blossom, I can use some help here with the bowls and putting them away., Falling Leaf asked her daughter. Oh Aluli,* I promised to meet Gray Fox after the morning meal!, Yellow Blossom said, sulking. I will help you Aluli !, Bright Star offered. See Bright Star loves to help you!, Yellow Blossom said. OK my Yellow Blossom. You are off the hook for now., Falling Leaf said, giving in. Yellow Blossom kissed her Aluli* on the cheek and ran out the lodge. Falling Leaf knew her oldest daughter was sweet on Gray Fox. They hung out all of the time. Yellow Blossom had some girlfriends, but her time now seemed to be with Gray Fox. Her daughter was becoming a woman. They cleaned up the meal and went outside to meet up with White Deer. They were meeting up with several other women and their children. They were going into the Adohi* to collect the herbs that Summer had bought to them. Little Eagle and Bright Star chased each other around as usual. Then it was time for Bright Star to help collect the wonderful herbs with her Aluli.* Bright Star did not want to leave Little Eagle, but she also loved the herbs and helping her Aluli.* Falling Leaf was so proud of Bright Star. She was learning at an early age.

Chapter Two

FALLING LEAF WOULD tell Bright Star the name of the herbs. Bright star would repeat the names back to Falling Leaf. Bright Star turned to her Aluli*. I want to become a Didonv* woman when I grow up!, Bright Star announced. Bright Star looked just so cute standing there, holding the basket of herbs and smiling big. Falling Leaf and White Deer could not help but chuckle and smile big. Bright Star! Why you can be anything you want to be when you grow up!, Falling Leaf exclaimed. Falling Leaf knew though she could never be a Didonv* woman. It was sad. Only men could be a Shaman. It was just the way it was in the Indian world.

That night, Bright Star helped cook the evening meal, putting all the new herbs in the pot. After the meal, Mighty Arrow turned to Bright Star, saying, My wonderful Bright Star, that meal was so good. I would love some more! Bright Star ran to help spoon out more for her Agidoda*. Mighty Arrow wolfed it all down. Falling Leaf was cleaning out the bowl. They started to hear the beautiful flute music playing from outside. Mighty Arrow turned to look at Yellow Blossom who was smiling big. Now, who on earth could that be for?, Mighty Arrow wondered. Yellow Blossom blushed. I think it is Gray Fox. He said he may come by to see me., Yellow Blossom responded. Is that so?, Mighty Arrow asked. Can I go and sit with him Agidoda*?, Yellow Blossom asked. Yes you may, but do not go far., Mighty Arrow answered. She kissed him on the cheek and walked outside to talk to Gray Fox. Falling Leaf smiled to her Uyehi*. Did you know something about this?, Mighty Arrow asked. Well, maybe a little., Falling Leaf said, chuckling. Then she sat down to rest and told him the events of the day with Bright Star.

Yellow Blossom was so happy just sitting near Gray Fox. He was becoming her whole life now. She would dream of him at night and think about him all day long. Yellow Blossom?, Gray Fox beckoned.

Yes Gray Fox!, Said Yellow Blossom. Well… Would it be OK with you? I would like to bring your Agidoda* six beautiful Soquili* tomorrow morning., Gray Fox asked, being very nervous. You would? Why would you do that?, Yellow Blossom wondered. Gray Fox turned to Yellow Blossom and looked her right in her beautiful big round brown Tsiktoti *. I want to know if you would be my wife?, Gray Fox asked. Oh yes I would!, Yellow Blossom answered with excitement. Yellow blossom kissed him on the cheek and ran inside her lodge. Yellow Blossom was afraid to stay there a minute longer with the one she loved. She wanted to do more then just a kiss on the cheek. Mighty Arrow jumped when Yellow Blossom had come in so abruptly. I just remembered I have some sewing I need to finish up!, Yellow Blossom blurted out, which was not true, but she wanted to be alone with her thoughts. Mighty Arrow and Falling Leaf just smiled at each other. The wonderful flute music started up again.

The sun was slowly sinking down the mountain top. Yellow Blossom was getting ready for bed. She could not believe in the morning, Gray Fox would be here to give her Agidoda* six beautiful Soquili*, so that they could be married. Married! Yellow Blossom a married woman. She was so happy. She could not believe it was happening so fast. She slipped into her bed of furs. In just a few short sunrises, she could be sleeping in her own lodge with the man she loved.

Yellow Blossom could not sleep as well as she would have liked. All she could think about was marriage to Gray Fox. The morning did come. Yellow Blossom woke up to the sound of Soquili* hooves and neighing outside her lodge. She jumped up from her bed. She calmly walked to the other room where her Agidoda* and Aluli* were looking at each other. It seems that someone is outside with Soquili*?, Mighty Arrow asked. I… I don’t know., Answered Yellow Blossom. Yellow Blossom looked to her Aluli* for help. Mighty Arrow, why don’t you go and see who is outside and see what he wants., Falling Leaf urged. OK… OK. I am going., Mighty Arrow said, chuckling to himself. Mighty Arrow walked outside and the sun glared into his Tsiktoti*.

Mighty Arrow turned to see Gray Fox standing there smiling with six beautiful stallions surrounding him. Well, what on earth do you have with you on this fine sunrise?, Mighty Arrow asked, looking at all of the fine Soquili*. Well my chief, I knew of a place where the stallions here could roam. I went out during the night and waited for them. I was falling asleep when all of a sudden it sounded like thunder in the distance. I jumped up and hid behind some big boulders. Sure enough, there they were. It took me all night. One by one, I had to capture them., Gray Fox told his story. Mighty Arrow could not believe that one warrior could capture so many. Mighty Arrow was very impressed. My chief,if I may, I want to give you these fine stallions for a gift. I know how much you are into Soquili*., said Gray Fox. Mighty Arrow was walking around all of these magnificent creatures. He had been in love with Soquili* since his childhood. All of a sudden, Gray Fox’s heart was beating like a hundred buffalo running across the plains. You want to give me a gift, but what for son?, Mighty Arrow asked, trying not to smile. My chief, I… I… would love to ask your permission to marry your daughter Yellow Blossom., Gray Fox asked nervously. There… he asked. What a relief. I also have gifts for your other family members too., Gray Fox offered. Well now, this is turning out to be a beautiful morning., Mighty Arrow replied. Just then, Little Eagle ran up to his chief. Little Eagle asked, My chief, could I help take the Soquili* to the corral?’’ Little Eagle was always in a hurry to please his chief when ever he saw the opportunity. Little Eagle had a motive. Bright Star was a little younger then him, but not by too much. Little Eagle had his Tsiktoti* on her. There was just something about her. Yes Little Eagle, but get another brave to help you. There are so many., Mighty Arrow said, not wanting Little Eagle to get hurt. Yes my chief! I will!, Little Eagle answered. Little Eagle ran off to get some of his friends to help. That young brave is a go getter!, said Gray Fox. Yes he is. He has been proving himself at his young age. Soon, he will be going off on his first vision quest., Mighty Arrow said. Wow!, Said Gray Fox. That will be wonderful! Well, let us take your gifts inside. I am sure Yellow Blossom is waiting to hear the good news., Mighty Arrow said with a smile. Gray Fox swallowed, a hard lump in his throat. Good news my chief?, Gray Fox asked, his Tsiktoti* growing wide. Yes Gray Fox! Welcome to the family!, Mighty Arrow said with an enthusiastic smile.

Mighty Arrow slapped Gray Fox on his shoulder. They walked inside the lodge. Gray Fox has come with gifts! He has asked me a very important question!, Mighty Arrow said with a joyful smile. Oh?, said Falling Leaf. What was the question Agidoda*?, Yellow Blossom said, wondering. Well, it seems this young man wants to marry you, Yellow Blossom., Mighty Arrow said, still thinking all this over. What did you tell him?, Yellow Blossom asked, now feeling nervous. Mighty Arrow walked over to Yellow Blossom. He kissed her on the forehead. It looks like I am going to lose a daughter., Mighty Arrow answered and kissed Yellow Blossom on her forehead again.

Falling Leaf gasped. She saw her daughter with a big smile on her face as she turned to look at Gray Fox. Falling Leaf wanted to cry. She was both happy and sad. Yellow Blossom’s Agilivgi*, Fresh Snow asked, When will the wedding be? Bright Star just said, Wedding! Everyone had a laugh to break the tension. All of the gifts were opened and loved by all. Bright Star received a beautiful shell necklace. They visited well into the evening. The wedding would take place in seven sunrises. This gave Gray Fox a good amount of time to build a lodge for him and Yellow Blossom. Yellow Blossom wanted their lodge to be next to the big Pine trees on the left side of the village. Once their lodge was built, there would be room for Yellow Blossom to have a garden. Well, the seven days seemed to drag on forever. Finally, the sun rose on the seventh day. Yellow Blossom could hardly sleep that night. In the morning, she would become Gray Fox’s wife. Then after a while, she would give him a son… several sons. Falling Leaf came in to Yellow Blossom’s room. She looked at her daughter sleeping peacefully. Yellow Blossom., Falling Leaf called her in a gentle tone of voice. Yellow Blossom stretched her arms over her head. Good morning Aluli*. Is this really my wedding day?, Yellow Blossom asked. Yes it is Yellow Blossom. I can not believe it is here myself!, Falling Leaf sighed. Oh Aluli*, don’t be so sad. I will not be living too far from you now., Yellow Blossom said, soothing her Aluli*. I know. I… I… just will not be seeing your face in the morning when I wake up., Falling Leaf said, still feeling a little weepy. Aluli* you will be coming over for tea and anything else we can do. You know I will also have to now collect my own herbs!, Yellow Blossom said, remembering.

That made Falling Leaf smile and feel a whole lot better. Now, let’s get you dressed!, Falling Leaf said. Here. I have a surprise for you. Falling Leaf handed Yellow Blossom a beautiful white doe skin dress. Oh Aluli*, this dress is so beautiful! When on earth did you have time to make it?, Yellow Blossom asked, amazed. I have a another surprise for you. This was my dress I wore on my wedding day!, Falling Leaf told her. No way! Look at all this beautiful bead work! Yellow Blossom was so happy. My Aluli* had made me this dress and did all the bead work on it herself., Falling Leaf told her, remembering her Aluli* with love. Aluli*, I can not wear this. This is too priceless. A lot of work went into this!, Yellow Blossom said, feeling a little guilty. Yellow Blossom, my Aluli* made me promise that my first born would wear it on her wedding day. Now, we cannot disappoint her., Falling Leaf told her daughter. Oh OK and no I would never go against her wishes either., said Yellow Blossom. Falling Leaf helped Yellow Blossom get dressed. Fresh Snow came in with a beautiful wreath made out of wild flowers for Yellow Blossom to wear on her head. She also slipped on a new pair of Tsulawa* that were dyed white for this occasion. Yellow Blossom was a vision of a Goddess. Falling Leaf and her daughters all had Hitsagalv* in their Tsiktoti*. Bright Star yelled, Pretty! Once again they all laughed, which was such a good thing. Mighty Arrow came in the big room. He had been dressing for the occasion himself. He looked at his first born, a big lump forming in his throat. He swallowed hard. So beautiful! So beautiful!, Was all he could say. He held his arm out and Yellow Blossom put her arm through his. The whole family was dressed up for the big day. All of the people dressed in their finest cloths too. Weddings were a big deal for the people. Elders were helped by the young braves to help them sit on their blankets. The central Ayetas* was burning bright and trying to reach the heavens. The Shaman was dressed in a fine buckskin outfit. Tan Fringes everywhere. Beautiful red bead work on his shirt. His long gray hair was in braids, with a red cloth around his head. Mighty Arrow walked his beautiful daughter and put her hand in Gray Fox’s hand. Make me proud and always keep her happy., Mighty Arrow said. As chief, and the Agidoda* he had the right to say his peace.

The people’s Shaman was a very important man in the village. He could help people when they were sick, or if problems came up in marriages, or if a child or a young brave became a problem to the people. He also can marry a young couple such as Gray Fox and Yellow Blossom. Everyone loved their Shaman, Red Wolf. He was a kind and gentle man. He could also be very strict when he had to be. It was a beautiful spring morning for a couple to be married. The weather was perfect. The birds were singing their good morning songs. The dogs were chasing each other around, glad for the warm weather. Flowers were blooming. Gardens were being planted. The Shaman raised his right hand to tell everyone the wedding is to begin and to settle down. Yellow Blossom’s heart was beating like lot of drums all at once. She looked over at Gray Fox. How was he doing this? He looked so calm. My people, it seems we have two people here who want to commit to each other. It is a wonderful day to be married!, the Shaman spoke. He looked up to the heavens. Oh Great Spirit, bless this young couple who are standing here before you. Watch over them as they begin their new life together. Let no one come between them! He faced the young couple. They were still holding hands. Yellow Blossom, be good to Gray Fox. Help him and love him in his time of need. Give lots of strong children to grow up in the future. Gray Fox, help and love Yellow Blossom. Be good to her. Help and love her in her time of need. Give her lots of children for our future. Be good to each other. Now you two are married! Go in peace! Red Wolf completed the wedding ceremony. They kissed each other and the people cheered and yipped for the new couple. Gifts were brought over and they were put at their feet. The people hugged the new couple and congratulated them. Now, Yellow Blossom was to sit down near their family. They had food brought to them by the younger children… . Steaming hot stew, piles of fruit, bread and tea to drink. Falling Leaf was still very weepy. She could not believe her first born was married and now going to live with Gray fox. Mighty Arrow saw how his wife was looking. Mighty Arrow put his arm around Falling Leaf. Look how happy Yellow Blossom is my wife! Do not be so sad. Soon we will have grandchildren to look after!, Mighty Arrow said gently. I will be OK. I just have to get used to all of this., Falling Leaf said, sniffling. Bright Star looked at her sad Aluli* and hugged her tight. It was such a beautiful wedding. Everyone dressed up and all., Falling Leaf commented. Falling Leaf kept hugging Bright Star tight, never wanting to let her go. Yes my wife, and do you remember our wedding?, Mighty Arrow asked, remembering. Oh of course I do! It was on a day just like today. Our Shaman was so nervous, still getting used to marrying people. Now look at him. He is full of confidence!, Falling Leaf said. Yes, he has learned a thing or two over the years. I wonder which one of our girls will marry next., Mighty Arrows said playfully. Shhhh, don’t even think that!, Falling Leaf said and chuckled She knew he was feeling the same way.

The Ahuli* started up and some young braves got up to put on a dance for the people. Then their would be a friendship dance. This dance, the women were allowed to participate. Just about everyone danced except some of the elders. The elders though enjoyed the music so much, that they would clap along with the Ahuli*. After Yellow Blossom and Gray Fox ate, they did the friendship dance. Then they were ready for their honeymoon. They kissed their families goodbye and rode off on Gray Fox’s beautiful stallion. I have a surprise for you., Gray Fox told his new wife. A surprise?, Yellow Blossom asked. Yes, we will not be spending the night in our new lodge just yet., Gray Fox answered. No, and just where will you be taking me?, Yellow Blossom asked in a surprised voice. Oh now, just you be patient. You will see very soon. Gray Fox was being very mysterious. Yellow Blossom was patient. She rested her head on her new Uyehi*’s back to be close to him on their ride. She was very quiet, thinking in a few short minutes of time, they would be alone. All alone and