The Merge

By Allison Bruning

One spirit split into two different bodies meant to live their lives together. Ten years ago, Rose, could have had a life with her twin sister. Angry with the death of her parents, she had decided not to stay with the Shawnee. Over the years, Rose and Calico have had visions of each other's lives. Not realizing what they were they just ignored that their spirits were trying to live together. That was until the unthinkable happened. Spirit to spirit, War Chief Little Owl Quick as the Wind, begins to feel the disruption in Calico's spirit. They are told unless Rose and Calico's spirits reunited then he and Calico will die. How can they find Rose? The last they knew she was living with her aunt in French held lands. The British had kicked out the French from the colonies. France was a long ways from Ohio. Even if they did find Rose, would they be able to convince her to push pass her anger and become Shawnee? Or will Little Owl and Calico die leaving the lives of their children in the hands of their elders?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Crimson Sparrow
• Release date: Jul 26, 2023
• ISBN: 9781946072931

Allison Bruning

Allison Bruning has had a passion for writing since childhood. She originally hails from Marion, Ohio but lives in Marfa, Texas with her husband and their Australian Cattle Dog, Lakota Sioux.Allison enjoys family stories, history and genealogy. Her educational background includes a BA in Theatre Arts with a minor in Anthropology acquired at Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. Allison received National Honor Society memberships in both Theatre Arts and Communication. She was also honored her sophomore year with admission into the All American Scholars register. She holds graduate hours in Cultural Anthropology and Education. In 2007, Allison was named Who's Who Among America's Educators. She is also the recipient of the Girl Scout Silver and Gold Awards. Allison also holds a Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Full Sail University. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Education from Walden University.Allison interests include Ohio Valley history, anthropology, travel, culture, history, camping, hiking, backpacking, spending time with her family, and genealogy.

Book preview

June 10, 1774

Little Owl Town, Southern Ohio

Little Owl sat at the wooden table playing with the roasted deer meat his mother had cooked for the family. He rested his head on his right hand thinking deeply about his new life as a Shawnee war chief with a Cherokee mother. It had only been a week since he had undergone his Cherokee naming ceremony. He had thought he would lose the support of his followers with acceptance of his Cherokee heritage but much to his surprise he did not lose any supporters but had gained more! His village was growing with new Mingo, Delaware, Cherokee and Shawnee families.

Son, Quiet Turkey called to him.

Hmm, he moaned, shaking his head, and looking up at his three-month pregnant mother.

Do you want more water, she asked holding his wooden cup.

He looked down at the empty cup then back at her. Yes, please. She took the cup to a bucket of water, grabbed the silver ladle, poured water into the cup, then returned it back to him. Thank you, he said taking it from her.

You’re welcome. Are you alright?

I’m just thinking.

About?

He exhaled a deep breath, shaking his head. I don’t know. The settlers are too quiet.

You should be enjoying the peace.

Chief Big Deer has told me the same thing. He believes this moment of peace shows that the British want peace with the Shawnee. But I do not agree. He has leadership of our village right now because we are not at war.

As is should be. The peace chief leads during times of peace and the war chief during times of war. Why do you not trust Chief Big Deer? You two have led this village together for three years.

I do trust him. It’s just…I don’t know…something isn’t right, but I don’t know what it is. I have several groups of warriors scouting the border but there hasn’t been much activity. We have been able to hunt in peace. I do not understand how all this time we have had nothing but problems with the British and now it’s all quiet. That does not sit well with me, mother.

Little Owl just enjoy the momentary peace you have. This war between the British and our people has been long and hard upon all native families.

They aren’t going to stop, mother.

Son, you have a toddler and a newborn baby. Your wife carries twins. I know you want what is best for our people, but you also have to remember you are a new father. Snow can’t leave her bed because your daughters make her morning sickness worse. I am fortunate enough not to be so ill with your sister but even I do not feel well at times.

Mother?

It has been a little over thirty years since I was last pregnant.

Blue Lark, he sighed.

Yes. Now please, finish your meal while I tend to your son.

Yes, mother, he sighed, looking down at his food. He slowly ate the freshly roasted venison thinking about their ten-week-old son, Strong Crane. His promised son was such a delight to him. He watched Calico sit on the edge of their bed while feeding their youngest son. He couldn’t stop admiring him. Strong Crane was gaining more weight, but he wasn’t too chubby that they had to worry about him. He was the perfect baby.

Black Buffalo, his mother chided breaking the war chief’s dream like state. He sat upright just in time to see his nineteen-month-old son crying and slamming his hands on the table in a huge fit.

Enough, Little Owl yelled, taking the plate from his son.

Mommy, Black Buffalo yelled.

Your mother is feeding your brother then going back to bed. You will eat your food, or I will… a loud knock on the door interrupted the father discipling the toddler. Ugh, Little Owl groaned, starting to rise from his place.

Sit, son. I will get the door, Quiet Turkey said, pushing her hand on his shoulder.

Thank you, mother, he said, sitting back down. He looked to his son with stern face, ignoring whoever was at the door.

Mommy, Black Buffalo yelled, slamming his fists on the table with more determination.

Eat your food, Calico yelled at him.

No! Mommy, he cried louder.

Ugh, your son is going to give me a headache, Little Owl sneered to his wife.

Our son?

The one you are holding.

Little Owl, she sighed, shaking her head.

Our son, Snow. He’s mine. I claimed him but right now…ugh, he wiped his hands down his face then looked up at the ceiling, Snow Owl help me with this obnoxious child!

A familiar male chuckle caught his attention. He turned his head towards the entrance to see the principal war chief standing with his six-year-old son, Tecumseh. Chief Pucksinwah, Little Owl rose and greeted his elder. His mother had walked out of the cabin leaving the principal war chief and his son alone with Little Owl and Calico.

Greetings, Chief Little Owl. He shook his hand. I do not miss the times when my six children were as young as Black Buffalo.

I think my captives are much easier to control than my son.

Chief Pucksinwah grinned. It does get easier, Little Owl. I promise. The older chief looked to his son, Tecumseh, go sit with Black Buffalo and urge the little shaman to eat his food, please.

Yes, father, the child answered then went to the table. Little Owl and Calico silently watched the future war chief calm their son down and get him to eat his food.

Huh, want to stay awhile, Little Owl teased his elder.

Don’t worry you will get used to it. When the children are that young, they do not always understand that we have their best interests in mind. They can be quite stubborn at times.

You have no idea.

Chief Pucksinwah closed the door behind him. I asked your mother to leave us because I need to speak to both you and The Huntress. He turned to Calico and smiled at Strong Crane on her shoulder. She rocked back and forth, while burping her son. I was told he had been born. My guide tells me he is much like his father.

Calico smiled, Very much so. He’s a good son. He came into the world a month earlier than he should have and he was very ill afterwards. We didn’t think he would survive but thankfully he grew stronger after the curse was lifted. 

Indeed. Are you well enough to speak to me? My guide had also told me you are having complications with the twins inside you?

I am tired, Chief Pucksinwah, but I am always tired. My appetite has increased but all I am able to do is eat soup because if I eat anything more than that I will vomit. Grandmother gave me some herbs to help with that, the same ones I would have given my own patients, but they are not strong enough to settle my body. Our daughters are causing me more problems than my sons ever did.

Your daughters are special to the Shawnee, Huntress.

Calico and Little Owl exchanged a glance. What do you know about them, Little Owl asked taking the milk induced comatose baby from his wife.

They are healers, like their mother. I was told to tell you so but that is all the information I was given. Strong Crane will be like his father and these daughters will be like their mother so the work you both do for the Shawnee will continue with your children when you both no longer walk this world.

Calico asked, Will our children have families of their own and spread their abilities through the children. When I went to the future,

You what, Chief Pucksinwah asked in shock.

I’m sorry. I thought your guide had told you. I had figured since you knew of our daughters then what had happened to me before the Shaking Tent Ceremony would have been revealed to you as well, she yawned at the end. Calico placed her hand on her forehead and leaned over.

Bucket, Little Owl asked.

Calico nodded, Please.

The principal war chief offered, I’ll get it so you can lay your son down.

Thank you, Little Owl replied then walked to the hammock over Hawk Song’s bed and placed their sleeping baby inside.

You’re welcome, the chief answered then walked to the fireplace. He grabbed the empty bucket then turned to his son and Black Buffalo. He finished his food?

Yes, father, Tecumseh answered, showing him the empty plate. He fell asleep after he ate.

Little Owl turned towards the boys. He tends to fall asleep when his brother does. Strong Crane is finally staying asleep all night and takes naps in the daytime with his brother.

Chief Pucksinwah grinned, Who falls asleep first?

Usually Black Buffalo, Calico answered with her head lowered.

Huntress, they are bonding in the spirit world, as they should.

Huh, Little Owl huffed. I never. I mean I knew they were supposed to be close but that…?

Chief Pucksinwah turned to Tecumseh, Go outside and play with the other children.  Tecumseh eagerly ran out of the cabin.

I don’t mean to be rude, Chief Pucksinwah, Calico moaned. The principal war chief quickly walked to the medicine woman and handed her the bucket. Calico hurled several times. She wiped her mouth and handed the bucket to Chief Pucksinwah. Ugh, thank you.

You’re welcome. If you need to lie down, then do so. My wife never gave me twins, but I remember how sick she was whenever she carried our children. Please do not let formalities keep you from getting the rest you need, the chief advised, placing the bucket beside her.

She lifted her eyes to see Little Owl place a chair beside their bed. Black Buffalo and Strong Crane are asleep on Hawk Song’s bed. I placed Strong Crane between the wall and his older brother.

I thought you were going to put them in the hammock, she said.

It’s better to use the bed. Lie down, he guided his wife then covered her with their trade blanket. Little Owl sat on the bed next to her, holding her hand while the older chief sat in the chair.

You want to move your village to Chillicothe, Chief Pucksinwah started the conversation.

I am contemplating it, Little Owl answered.

What bothers you?

We should have moved the village sooner to Chillicothe. We always move there in the summer so all the war chiefs from various villages can gather together with you at the great council. The curse has been lifted and I have gained more followers. Our village has grown. I do not want to abandon the Delaware, Cherokee and Mingo. I know they cannot join us in Chillicothe. They have their own ways in the summer. But this war with the British has disrupted everything. Now my wife is unable to leave her bed. Every time I think I have figured out how the Kishpoko can join you and the other warriors it falls apart.

And have you spoke to Chief Big Deer about his plans for the Maykujay?

I have. He too does not want to leave our village for Chillicothe, especially since my wife is in the condition, she is in.

Understandable, she is his granddaughter.

Calico asked, But aren’t we going against the ways of Our Grandmother?

Huntress, this constant war we are in is against Our Grandmother’s way. Chief Cornstalk wants peace with the British. He is trying hard to maintain the peace, but I think his ways are foolishness. The British are never going to leave us alone.

Are you two divided?

We are not. We are traveling together with a small group of my finest warriors. I would have left Tecumseh with his mother, but I knew he needed to be with me.

Little Owl asked, Why?

My time is short, Chief Little Owl. I can feel it. I will not survive the year and I need to make certain I spend as much time with him as possible so he will accept my death and not let it deter him from becoming the next principal war chief when he is old enough to do so.

Calico asked, Do you know when your death is to happen?

I do not. He turned to Little Owl. Chief Little Owl, I don’t want you to move the Kishpoko to Chillicothe.

Sir, Little Owl asked with a curious look on his face.

There is more that you need to do here for the Shawnee. Your world is unbalanced.

Calico interrupted, I told him the same. The constant walking on the Red Road will lead to his own mental destruction.

It can but that is not what I am talking about.

I don’t understand.

Huntress, I do not know much other than the world you think we live in isn’t the one that is meant for either you nor Little Owl and your children.

The world I live in, she questioned.

What you believe to be true is unbalanced.

I don’t understand. We cured the curse that was affecting my husband and his family. Our twins are a product of that reunification.

There is another curse that needs to be dispelled if you and Little Owl are to live the lives Our Grandmother desires from both of you.

What curse, Little Owl asked, squeezing Calico’s hand.

Chief Pucksinwah exhaled a deep breath, shaking his head. I don’t know. That is all I was told. My guide told me another would come to tell you more. I was just supposed to tell you that information and to urge you to stay in this village. Keep working with the confederation you have in order to protect our people from the British.

Little Owl looked to his wife then back to his leader, I will do whatever you want me to, Chief Pucksinwah. I trust you.

Good. What else is bothering you?

Little Owl looked at his wife then back to his wise chief. A few weeks ago, I captured a British officer. The same one that had led the massacre on my village last year.

Did you kill him?

No, I beat him close to death then returned him to his home but only after he had agreed to spy for us. His body is so broken he won’t be able to send me information for months. But… he said rising from the bed then searched under the bed for his bundle. He pulled out a map then pushed the bundle underneath and turned to his leader. Michael told me the location of every military outpost along the border. Some of the locations were unknown to the Shawnee.

May I, Chief Pucksinwah asked, reaching his hand out. Little Owl passed the map to his leader. The two men walked to the table, pushed aside the dishes, and peered down at the map. It looks like the British are regrouping.

I had thought the same. I sent a few groups of warriors to scout the locations. The Cherokee, Mingo and Delaware have been helping me to determine the strength of the units. But every report that comes back to me says the military aren’t moving and they aren’t strong enough for a war.

How can that be, the principal chief looked up at the younger one.

I don’t know. A part of me wants to believe the British want peace but I know in my heart, Chief Pucksinwah, that is not what the British ever want. They want our lands, and they won’t stop until they get them.

Don’t stand down, Little Owl. Keep an eye on these locations and let me know if there is any movement. Chief Cornstalk believes he can talk peace with the British.

Do you believe there is a brief peace on the border because of his talks.

I do but I don’t trust the British.

Nor do I.

I want to make certain we are ready for a fight if his peace talks fail.

We will be. My men and I have moved the fence post on the eastern border of our village, so the river and the women’s hut are fortified.

Good. Am I right to assume you have warriors guarding all sides of the village in the wilderness?

I do. Michael isn’t my only spy, either.

Oh? Did you capture another British soldier?

No. Hawk Song has returned to our village. He has a white wife and has adopted her sons. She is pregnant with his son.

Hawk Song? Married to a white woman? Did he betray the Shawnee to the British?

No. Moravian.

Moravian? Hawk Song? Our Hawk Song? Moravian?

He is no longer.

Then where is your brother? I didn’t see him when I arrived at your village.

He is living with his Moravian wife at Brother Moon’s cabin posing as a trader so he can spy for the Shawnee.

And does his wife know this?

She does and while she wished he wouldn’t do so but she is willing to help him.

Do you believe she will betray us?

No.

Good. What of Blue Lark?

He and his wife have decided to move into a Cherokee village. They left our village weeks ago.

Chief Pucksinwah nodded. I must go. Chief Cornstalk and I have another village we need to travel to. He has been speaking to every peace chief while I am meeting with the war chiefs to ensure all of our villages are fortified. Stay safe and well, Chief Little Owl and Huntress. And congratulations on the birth of Strong Crane. Little Owl grasped Chief Pucksinwah’s forearm. The two men hugged each other, then pulled away with their hands on each other’s forearms.

Be well, Chief Pucksinwah, Little Owl said then pulled away.

I don’t know when we will meet again but I know it will be before my death. Stay strong, my friend, he said then walked out of the cabin.

Little Owl turned back to his wife. Another curse, she questioned, leaning on her left side.

Hmm, he nodded. You don’t know anything about it?"

No. Chief Pucksinwah is special to the Shawnee not only for his wisdom but because he has prophetic dreams and can interrupt them on his own without a Maykujay. His words to us hold meaning.

It would explain the tension I have felt every time I try to decide when and how to move us to Chillicothe.

Did you ever approach Snow Owl with it?

Yes, but he told me to wait for Chief Pucksinwah. I couldn’t understand why he would tell me such because my chief is supposed to be in Chillicothe not wandering around Ohio.

Calico yawned the shook her head. Hmm.

He sat on the edge of their bed and gently rubbed her back. Go to sleep, he whispered.

I want to talk more about this curse.

Snow, you’re exhausted. Close your eyes and sleep. I need to finish my lunch then I will find Cloud Gazer so she can watch our children and take care of you. I need to meet with the Mingo, Delaware war chiefs and my uncle.

Calico yawned. Chief Spring Frog went fishing with his sons. Do you think he has returned?

I don’t know but if not, I will ask one of mother’s other brothers to find him. I’m certain they would know where he is.

Some of your aunts have been coming to visit me while you aren’t in the cabin. It’s been nice getting to know your Cherokee family.

We’ve known them. We camp with them every winter.

It’s different now because they just aren’t some Cherokee we camp with. They’re family. The relations between us are more than they ever have been. You can’t tell me that things between Chief Spring Frog and you haven’t changed. Before you two had a war chief to war chief relationship. He’s no longer just your friend. Now he is your elder because he’s your uncle.

True.

Calico yawned again, opening, and closing her eyes. Ugh, I’m so tired.

Go to bed. We can speak more about this later.

She rolled onto her back. Little Owl gently pulled their trade blanket over her while she closed her eyes. He leaned down and kissed her on the cheek. She smiled and snuggled deeper into the blanket so only her faced showed. He picked up the chair and placed by the table. Little Owl picked up the dirty dishes, placed them in another bucket, rolled up the map, then returned to his meal.

Chapter 2

Sounds of the busy life in the medium sized Shawnee village echoed outside her cabin door. Clara stood in only her shirt, pushing her hand down the small bump of her lower stomach. She couldn’t believe there had been enough time between her and Alexander to have come with child. But then again, her time with her handsome British husband had been filled with intense passion since they had married.

She sat on the edge of the bed, not fully knowing what to tell him. In Africa, she had been high priestess of her ancestor’s gods, a precious chosen one. She had never anticipated marriage let along having a child of her own. But then again, she had never thought she would be living in the New World. She wiped her hands down her face, unsure of what to do. She knew being the wife of the next peace chief had meant she would at some point have to give him an heir. It was what all rulers needed, after all.

The door suddenly opened. She grabbed the bear fur blanket off their bed, quickly wrapped it around her body to hide the bulge and turned to greet her husband.

Alexander slowly closed the door behind him staring at his beautiful wife, knowing something was wrong. He opened his mouth to speak to her but was interrupted by her question, Did you have a good meeting with your father and Chief Cornstalk.

I did. The principal peace chief asked to meet you, but mother told him you were helping Calico?

I…I…I was, she tried to convince him.

Clara, what are you hiding?

Hiding?

He sighed, closing the door behind him. What’s wrong? he asked, releasing the handle.

Nothing. What makes you think anything is wrong? she asked, trying to deflect his curiosity, but she knew better than to think she could. Yet, she didn’t want to stir up the demons she knew inhabited his body. He was working so hard to control them. The Shawnee had done well to dispel most of them but there was one inside him that caused minor demons to periodically control him. She hated when that happened. She could always tell when his personality changed between Brother Moon, Alexander, and the young boy that rarely came out. It took all her spiritual power to push them aside and gain her husband back from the darkness. No one knew her true past. Not even Alexander. All they knew was that she had been a new acquisition for a Virginia planter who had run away from the planation. Alexander had sometimes pressed for more information, but his Shawnee father often told them that was her past. Clara hadn’t yet walked through the gauntlet since they had needed a war chief to guide her through the process and Chief Little Owl had been preoccupied with family matters. Nevertheless, Chief Big Deer had fully accepted her into his family and had already begun treating her as a Shawnee woman. In his eyes, it didn’t matter that she hadn’t endured the gauntlet yet. The runaway slave woman no longer existed.

Mother lied. I knew it as soon as she said it, Alexander said walking closer to her. What’s the truth?

Clara swallowed hard. I only told your mother this morning because I didn’t know what to do.

Do?

Remember when you had to use the privy while we were eating breakfast this morning?

Yes, but what does that have to do with anything?

 I told your parents. Chief Big Deer asked you to join him in counsel with the other peace chiefs before Chief Cornstalk had arrived so I could be alone with Cloud Gazer.

Why?

I didn’t know how to tell you.

Clara, tell me what! Clara exhaled a deep breath, slowly lowering the bear fur blanket and pressed her left hand down her lower stomach. Alexander grinned with such delight. He ran to her, placed his hands on her upper arms and asked, Are you certain?

It’s a baby, Brother Moon.

Why aren’t you excited?! This is wonderful news!

For you, perhaps, she muttered, turning her back and walking to the fireplace. She crouched and played with the burning logs, pushing them aside so the embers would soon die.

Clara, I don’t understand. We are married. It is what we wanted, isn’t it?

She lowered the poking stick, rose, and turned to face him with tears cascading down her cheeks. Whose baby, is it?

What do you mean whose baby is it? You haven’t been with another, have you?

Yes, Alexander scares me, Alex is a boy, and you? You’re Shawnee. Some nights it is Alexander who takes me in his arms. He’s cruel, husband. So cruel. Most of the time it is you. You can’t control Alexander because of the demon inside you. He is bound to her. What if this child is their spawn not yours?

Alexander shook his head and slowly walked towards his younger wife. Clara, I am growing stronger inside him.

Perhaps so but how can we ensure he doesn’t control this child, she said, placing her hand on her stomach. I have done everything I can think of to eliminate the child within me but for some reason the spirits do not allow it.

The brilliant red-haired physician raised his eyebrow in shock and horror. How long have you known?

She shook her head. A month? Maybe a little more? My life in Africa. It… I… I… You have to understand I was never meant to be with a man, let alone bare children.

Alexander swallowed hard. She knew that look on his face. It was dangerous to lie to him, lest Alexander come to the surface. She knew if Alexander knew she had lied to him he would try to punish her.

Fight him, she charged, grabbing the sides of his arms, and looking him dead in the face.

I’m trying, Alexander muttered. But he is so angry. It grows inside me.

She grabbed his face and looked him deep in his green eyes with a stern look. She could see the dark pupils move small to large then small again. Over and over, she watched him fight. Clara ran to their bed, reached underneath, grabbed her leather satchel, pulled out a sacred object, and ran back to her husband. He leaned against this table, pressing his hand down. He grunted loudly with the thick tone of hell itself. She had no choice. She had to get his attention. Clara bravely slapped her hand across his cheek. Alexander turned towards her with a fit of rage.

You lied to us! he bellowed, chasing after her.

You will stop! she yelled, placing the sacred crystal before him. She declared a binding spell in her people’s ancient language.

Dr. Alexander James McGillpatrick Turner tried with all his might to fight the spell, but it was useless. He just couldn’t overpower the African priestess. Who are you? he cried out, falling to his knees.

Someone that wants her husband back! Deeper she drew upon her sacred power, beckoning the ancient gods of her people to deliver the spirit from her husband. It was hard to trust that it might work. She had used the same spell numerous times upon him, but it only buried him deeper into the body. Alexander cried out, arching his head back. He couldn’t fight anymore.

If you kill me. I can’t help Calico.

She doesn’t need your help. She needs Brother Moon.

No, you don’t understand. If you kill me the Demon Bride will be released onto her! You pathetic witch. You’re doing this because you fear me, but you don’t carry my child!

How do I know? You’re a liar.

Brother Moon is stronger than I am. Kill me and all that he fights for will be for naught. I didn’t want the Demon Bride in me. I never did. I was ready to die so that Brother Moon might live, but it was my sister who had bound me to the Demon Bride in order to protect her daughters. I am just the vessel. If you release me into hell, then the Demon Bride is free to do as she pleases. Why would you want an Irish demon to set upon the Shawnee? She already corrupted one of their shamans and a guide. What makes you think she won’t set her eyes upon another just to ruin Calico’s life? Even the Shawnee know that I can’t be extinguished.

Clara stepped closer to the man, fully taking in his words. Despite his reputation for being a liar, she really couldn’t sense that he was lying to her. She hated that this horrible man was inside her husband. Alexander craved violence, sex, and blood. Brother Moon, on the other hand, only desired peace, and wisdom. The perfect peace chief.

Sweat poured down Alexander’s face. He was on his knees, leaning back with his power being tethered to the sacred object. His dark, green eyes trailed from the object to his bride’s face. He doesn’t know, does he?

Who doesn't know what?

The demon possessed man chuckled loudly. The idiot. I let that man take control of this body because I am sick and tired of living with the Turner Family Curse. Yet, I remain in order to protect Calico from falling prey to the female line of that same curse. Anna. She never wanted either of her daughters to endure what she had. The Shawnee protect Calico but there is no one to protect Rose from it. You could destroy them, he bellowed at her. Not to mention the life of that son you carry. This body is my body. That curse is tied to the body not the spirit, which means your son is destined to replace me.

Never!

Then you only have one choice, witch! You have to let me inhibit this body so I can protect them. If I die, then the power of that curse comes upon your son.

Generational curse, she muttered with disappointment, lowering the sacred object, thus releasing Alexander from the binding spell. He collapsed on the floor. She couldn’t believe it was such a deep curse spanning from generation to generation. She knew it was a powerful spell that had cursed her husband but never had she thought of a generational one. She had so many questions. How old was the curse? Who had placed it upon the family? Why was there a curse in the first place? A curse meant there was someone controlling them. But who? She instinctively placed her hand on her lower stomach.

Hmm, Clara? a soft, sweet voice entered the cabin. She lowered her eyes to see her husband laying on his stomach. He pressed his forehead on the dirt floor, dazed and confused.

Brother Moon, she urgently went to his side, casting the sacred object under their bed. 

Ugh, my head is pounding and my entire body aches. He was here, wasn’t he, he said, rolling onto his back.

He was.

Did he hurt you, Alexander asked, placing his hand on the side of her face.

No. She placed her arms around his shoulders. You should rest in our bed.

Hmm, no, I need to return to my father. Chief Cornstalk and Chief Pucksinwah are leaving tonight. Father wants… Ugh, he yelled, leaning over, holding his stomach.

You should rest.

Get my father, please, he whispered.

Clara gently lifted his chin so she could clearly see into his eyes. Not yet. I need to speak to your parents first. Where are they?

In the longhouse with Chief Cornstalk. Clara?

Alexander told me something that must be discussed about with the Huntress, Chief Little Owl and your parents.

Ugh, Clara, please. Calico’s morning sickness is too severe for her to leave her bed.

Then we go to her.

My head. Oh, my head. I don’t think I will be able to walk. Alexander. Hmm. He’s making me sick. So sick. Alexander rolled back and forth with his hands on his forehead. He arched his head back, fidgeting his legs.

We can’t get rid of him, Brother Moon.

Ugh, please. Oh, please get my parents! I can hear his laughter in my head. He’s making my head feel like it’s going to burst open! Clara please!

Shh, stay here.

Where else would I go! He moaned rolling onto his stomach. His bright red hair flowed gently down the sides of his face so she couldn’t see it any longer. Clara hated watching him suffer so much but there wasn’t anything she could do to relieve it. She knew the only way to save her husband was to release Alexander from him but if Alexander was right then to do so would cause more harm than good. Clara grabbed his dark black long coat from under their bed, placed it on her body then ran out the door.

Chapter 3

Calico walked to Chief Big Deer’s cabin with her head down and a trade blanket around her shoulders. Her Shawnee grandmother, Cloud Gazer, tightened her grip around her slender form while the medicine woman kept her head down. The short walk from her cabin to the peace chief’s cabin felt like it took forever but she knew it was just her confusion getting the best of her thinking. The world around her spun with each step she took. She clutched Cloud Gazer’s shirt with a deep moan. Normally, she wouldn’t even be out of her bed, but Cloud Gazer had insisted the Huntress needed to be in her cabin.

Hmm, grandmother, she complained as they drew closer.

Slow, easy steps, granddaughter. I have you, Cloud Gazer gently guided Calico to the cabin door and lifted the handle never taking her eyes off her white, blonde, curly haired granddaughter.

Let me, Chief Big Deer said on the other side of the door. There’s a seat next to Little Owl.

Thank you, husband, Cloud Gazer replied slowly walking Calico into the room. She’s dizzy and needs to sit down. I gave her something stronger to calm her stomach. She was able to eat some meat and drink water without any problems. I couldn’t calm the headache and dizziness. It is taking everything she has just to walk.

Is she able to speak soundly?

Yes. She will be better once she sits down.

Good.

Cloud Gazer slowly guided Calico to the chair next to her husband. Lean on me, Snow, Little Owl said, gently pulling her into his side. She placed her hand on his chest and looked at her grandmother, who was blocking the view of Alexander on the bed.

Do you need anything, granddaughter, Cloud Gazer asked.

No, she yawned. I’m sorry.

Don’t be. If this wasn’t an important matter, then I would have never had you rise from your bed.

Calico nodded while Little Owl tightened his grip on her. He kissed her gently on the top of her head while Cloud Gazer moved out of the way. Calico sat upright at the sight of Alexander’s feverish body on his bed with a wet cloth on his forehead. What happened, she gasped.

Alexander happened, Clara answered changing out the cloth over her husband’s forehead with a new one. Calico looked at her aunt with curious look on her face. This is not the first time Alexander has attacked Brother Moon’s body. He hasn’t been as intense as this for a long time. But he probably made the attack on the body more intense after the conversation I had with him.

I don’t understand. When he became Shawnee, his white spirit left him, and he was given a Shawnee one.

That is the way it is supposed to be, but it isn’t with him.

Calico exchanged a confused look with her husband then turned to Chief Big Deer.

Chief Big Deer explained, Snow, your uncle has darkness inside him that will not leave his body. We have done everything to help him but the darkness inside him was so strong and foreign to us that not even Yellow Oak could call it out of him. I had spoken to your husband about it but haven’t told him everything. He turned to Clara. Tell her how you have been helping my son.

Calico listened carefully to every word Clara told her. She just couldn’t believe her grandparents would ever let a woman like her to be her uncle’s wife. She’s a witch, Calico declared loudly.

Alexander fidgeted more, crying out loud. Shh, husband, fight him. Don’t let Alexander defeat you, Clara turned her back on Calico and tried to calm him down. Tears flowed down his cheeks.

Help, he yelled, turning side to side. He heaved deeply, arching his head back, screaming, drowning out the spell the African witch chanted over him. The ailing physician suddenly fell unconscious.

Clara, Chief Big Deer asked, rising from his chair.

I didn’t get rid of Alexander. But the battle in his head was so intense it would have caused Brother Moon to become insane. I put the body to sleep but the spirits are still fighting. He will wake when the battle is over.

Calico stared at Chief Big Deer and her husband. Grandfather!

Chief Big Deer turned to the petite woman. Snow, she is not hurting him and never has. She has helped Brother Moon to become stronger.

She couldn’t believe the Shawnee peace chief was allowing a witch to heal her uncle. Little Owl, she sneered.

Snow, this is a complicated matter. We burn witches, Little Owl said, sitting with a regal look of authority.

That we do, but she has not caused us any harm. I suspect she has helped us to control the demon inside him, Chief Big Deer justified.

You cannot expect a demon possessed man to lead our people.

I don’t.

Then what are your expectations, grandfather, Calico asked,

Clara lowered the cloth into a bucket and turned to face her husband’s niece. He’s protecting you, your sister, and our child. She lowered her hand down her body to show Calico the bulge of her stomach. According to Alexander, I carry a son. The male heir to the curse.

What curse?

There is a generational curse that is passed down from father to son and mother to daughter. It is given to the eldest of each. You are the eldest sister. This child I carry would be Alexander’s eldest.

And you knew about this? Little Owl asked Chief Big Deer.

I did, the chief answered. But I believed if Alexander died then the curse would go with him, seeing as Calico no longer exist.

Calico shook her head. She does, grandfather. I can’t get rid of her no matter how hard I try at being Snow Vision Seeker Buffalo Woman.

Are you a twin? Clara asked.

Yes. How do you know? You barely know my white family.

I can sense the twin magic upon you. In my land I was set apart because I can sense spirits. I can’t see them. I can hear them. I was training to be a high priestess.

Do you have visions?

"No. All I can do is sense and hear them. You are more powerful than I, Huntress. I can feel that. It is the twin magic that makes that so.

We should have kept the twins together, Little Owl stated.

Calico turned to him. It would explain the visions. The dreams. They are so real, husband. I know our souls are together in the same land when we encounter each other. I just don’t think Rose knows what is happening between us. To be honest, I don’t fully understand it myself. I feel her pain just as you did with your brothers when you were cursed. I sense things, have thoughts that aren’t mine, and just know things about her that I shouldn’t know. I think she can do the same with me.

She can, Clara interrupted.

Explain, Chief Big Deer demanded.

Twins are rare. They are created when one soul splits into two. To separate them only causes more pain for them. They crave to be together because they are made to share their life experiences. You may have kept them apart, but Rose and Calico will find a way to live their lives together.

And if they don’t? Little Owl asked.

Clara turned towards him. They will both become severally depressed, darkness will consume them, and they will die.

Calico grasped her husband’s hand. She turned her gaze to her Shawnee grandfather. You don’t think… I mean I went through… oh, God… Rose… she.

You survived. She must have as well, Chief Big Deer answered her.

Calico turned to face her husband. I am no good to our people if the darkness is going to come upon me again. The Demon Bride…

…will not take you, he finished. Snow, we will all protect you. We are stronger now. All of us are.

The only one blocking the Demon Bride from coming upon her is Alexander. We have to let him live, Clara declared, kissing her sleeping husband on the forehead then taking the bucket to the fireplace.

You can control him? Chief Big Deer asked.

Yes, but I will need your help in doing so. All of you, she said turning to face them. I don’t have everything I need. I was tending to a sick family in a remote village when word came to us that the slavers were approaching. Many people escaped but I couldn’t leave behind the sick, elderly man I was tending to. His family had pleaded with me to run. But I told them to run instead. I would take care of their grandfather. I don’t remember how long it took for the slave traders to arrive at the village. The old man died in my arms. I had grabbed my belongings and was going to head back towards our temple when the slavers came upon me and took me. They took everything I had except for a crystal I had hidden from them, She shook her head. I know the demon that inhibits his body. I have seen my sisters remove this demon before but not with anything I have seen here.

The demon? Calico asked. All eyes looked to the new mother. I have heard and seen her before.

You have? She doesn’t speak to females, Clara’s curiosity peaked.

She took me through hell. It was a dark time in my life. Not so long ago.

Little Owl squeezed her hand and interjected, My wife went through a terrible darkness that nearly destroyed her. It ended with me carrying out a death sentence upon a once close friend of ours, a shaman. We both have been touched by the experience. The sheer notion that the Demon Bride has taunted my wife yet again concerns me. I, nor anyone who cares about her, want the Demon Bride anywhere near my wife.

Understandable.

That was not the only time she attacked me, Calico said. She captured and tortured my soul before the Shaking Tent Ceremony. My husband’s guide fought her with warrior spirits, but she kissed Snow Owl and corrupted him. My guide took Snow Owl to heaven. Jesus healed him but there was a great battle between the Demon Bride and the angels that delayed Snow Owl’s healing.

Was he healed?

Yes.

You said, Chief Big Deer approached them. That you know how to cast her out of my son?

I do but I don’t believe to do so right now would be wise.

Why not?

I do not mean any disrespect, father, but the Huntress can’t be at her full strength if she is separated from her twin. You have to make the world balanced for her before we try to defeat the Demon Bride.

And how do we do that?

Clara looked to Calico. You must find Rose.

June 11, 1774

The stars over the plaza twinkled brightly declaring Our Grandmother’s majesty. Little Owl sat next to the campfire not far from his cabin staring deeply into the flames thinking about his wife, Clara, and what Snow Owl had told him about the twins. He knew deep in his heart he should approach Snow Owl with his concerns, but he never did. Nothing made sense! Why would his guide tell him that when Chief Cornstalk arrived in his village he should prepare to leave with Calico and their children for Dr. Ephraim Garrick’s plantation in Virginia? A white man! Sure, the doctor had saved him, his wife and Alexander only a few years ago but still he was British settler! As if that wasn’t worse, now Clara was saying that Calico needed to find Rose in order to save her life. The strong Shawnee man didn’t want his wife anywhere near the British, let alone any reminders of her white past. It was bad enough that she never called Alexander nor Pierre by their Shawnee names. Now this!

Little Owl never wanted to believe that his guide would want his wife anywhere near any reminders of her white past. So, he had done the only thing he could think of, ignore his guide, and try to fix the problem himself. Thing was, the more he tried to think of a solution on his own the more anger he felt. All he wanted to do was hurt someone. He had tried to dispel those negative thoughts and emotions by trying to take his mind off of it. The war chief had run laps for hours around the village, hoping the exercise and sheer exhaustion would have helped him. But it didn’t. He poured his energies into his daily duties as the village war chief but still that didn’t help. When all hope seemed lost, he had tried to cleanse himself by swimming in the river next to the women’s hut but still it didn’t work. Mentally exhausted, he had just resumed his duties as if nothing was wrong with him. Yet, that had made matters worse. What he wouldn’t give for his village to be at war so he could focus on killing instead of the problems on his mind!

May I join you, Calico’s voice startled him.

He turned to see his petite wife standing next to him clutching the trade blanket around her body. Why aren’t you in our bed?

I couldn’t sleep.

Snow, you grew worse this morning. Cloud Gazer said you shouldn’t leave your bed.

I’m still not well, husband. I’m very weak. It is taking everything I have just to walk out of our cabin. May I sit?

Hmph, he grunted, scooting over on the log so she could sit next to him. The two of them silently looked into the flames. He could feel the thick tension between them but didn’t know what to say.

Calico broke the silence, How could I have not known that there was generational curse? Surely, I should have felt it, especially now that I am stronger.

Snow, you can’t doubt your abilities. You are still learning.

We are always learning, husband. It’s just… I feel inadequate. He opened his mouth to speak thinking about what Snow Owl and Dove had told him about his wife’s abilities while she was carrying their twins. He had never spoken a word to her about what he knew. He had hoped she wouldn’t let it concern her when it did happen, but he knew better than to ever think Calico would let the matter alone. Calico placed her finger on his lips. I don’t mean that I am not a medicine woman. I know that I am. I know that I have been set apart with special abilities to do Our Grandmother’s work.

Then why does what Clara told you bother you so? he asked, pushing her finger aside.

Calico sighed and shrugged her shoulders. Something doesn’t feel right. She’s a witch. Even you said we burn witches.

We do, but there is something about her that doesn’t feel like a threat to our people. She wants to help us, and she carries a peace chief.

How can all of you be so blinded by her? You only see the good when there is a threat of evil that dwells among us!

Are you certain you are not just reacting to the situation from what happened between you and the evil shaman? She’s not him, wife.

I know that.

She shook her head, peered at her hand then raised her eyes to her beloved

Do you? Snow, he gently said tracing his hand down her short arm. He looked her deeply in the eyes. I love you.

And I you, but you want to tell me something that you don’t think I can bear to hear.

He huffed slightly, pulling strands of her curly blond hair away from her mouth. You are so beautiful inside and out.

But?

Tell me, when one of the people you heal has gone through a traumatic experience, do they heal right away?

Well, no. They will always carry a bit of it with them. Sometimes for months while others take years to heal.

And what about you?

I have healed. I have accepted what happened to me and have been cleansed.

Perhaps so.

You doubt my words, husband?

I do not.

Then what?

You have just accepted the responsibilities that Our Grandmother has bestowed up you. You had questioned your training because of who had taught you.

I know my place beside you as war woman and as the great medicine woman, The Huntress.

You can know it in your mind, but do you know it here? he asked placing his hand over her heart. We made a promise never to keep secrets from one another."

Secret?

Your white spirit?

Husband, I do not want to make you upset.

I’m not so much upset as I am disappointed. Snow, we must be truthful with each other.

How can I be when I know the man you used to be hated me because I was white.

Was being the word, Snow. I am not that man anymore.

Are you certain about that?

Little Owl clenched his teeth and made a fist. I love you, he growled.

She raised her hands towards him. Calm down. I’m not saying you don’t.

Then what are you saying! I’m not the one who beat and raped you! I am the one Our Grandmother called to protect you! I am the one who burned my own best friend because he was hurting you! So, don’t sit there and be so ungrateful for everything I have done for you!

I’m not! I promise.

You are sounding like it!

Little Owl, we’ve been through so much and now this. I don’t want our marriage to end, again. I miss us.

The irate war chief opened and closed his fist several times thinking about her words. He calmed down and asked in a soft voice, Is that what you think I am going to do? Return you to Fox Claw?

No…I mean…I don’t know. The man I have seen the past few days is the same man I grew up with. Not the man I am married to. I know how you are without your guide, and I’m scared.

You don’t need to be. I have reunited with my guide.

But you’re not going to Snow Owl with your problems. Are you still scared to use the abilities he has given you?

No…Yes…Maybe, he answered, arching his eyebrow.

Which is it, husband? Little Owl silently looked at her. You can’t do it on your own. The children and I need my husband.

I am here. I always have been. He exhaled a deep breath, Snow, this divide between us must end. We were chosen to share our lives with each other. He took her hand into his own and lifted his eyes to his wife.

You’ve been at war for so long and I never wanted to take your focus away from the good of our people. Besides, you are a war chief not a shaman or healer. How would you know how to help me in these matters?

We are one, wife. Always one never divided. To be divided means our people suffer.

I understand that. But this feeling between Rose and I truly perplex me. It always has.

The feelings you have for Rose shouldn’t exist. The more you speak of them the more power you grant the spell that brought you two together.

It’s not a spell! It’s…

Are we disturbing you? Fox Fire’s voice caught their attention.

Not at all, father. We were just talking, Little Owl exhaled. He lifted his eyes to see Chief Big Deer, Alexander and Fox Fire sitting across from him. Brother Moon, it is good to see you again.

Thank you. I slept all day and awoke a few moments ago. Father told me what had happened. He turned to Calico. How are you feeling?

She looked to her husband then back to her uncle. Calico shook her head. I had a bad nosebleed before I came here. I’m weak, nauseated and a bit dizzy.

Snow, Little Owl sneered at her.

Calico turned to face him. I’m fine!

Little Owl huffed, shaking his head. You are not fine. I meant my words.

As did I! she yelled at her husband. You can’t ignore something spiritual just because you don’t agree with it. That’s not how the spirit world works. If the spirit exists it does so for a reason.

A curse, Snow. It’s a curse! Why can’t you see that? You’re the Huntress!

If you weren’t so…

Stop it. Both of you, Chief Big Deer interrupted stepping between them.

Calico swallowed hard, complying with her Shawnee grandfather’s command. She silently returned to her place on the log. What has you two at odds with each other? Chief Big Deer asked pointing to each of them.

Every marriage has problems, does it not? Not every husband and wife are always going to see eye to eye, Little Owl responded.

Yes, but you’re not fighting about normal marital problems. You just claimed Calico isn’t acting like the Huntress and she spoke to you about spiritual matters. I haven’t seen you two fight like this since before you were married. What’s wrong? Alexander asked.

Where is she? Calico countered, turning towards her red-haired uncle.

Where’s who?

Rose.

I told you years ago where she is. She’s with Pierre’s sister at their estate in New France.

You told me, but I know she’s not there. She hasn’t been there for years.

Chief Big Deer looked at his adopted white son then back to Calico. "What does this have to do with the argument you are having with your husband?’

Little Owl sighed then answered. All eyes turned in his direction. Snow claims she can feel Rose’s spirit, and always has been able to do so.

Is this true Chief Big Deer asked the medicine woman?

Calico nodded. Sometimes I feel pain that isn’t my own. I have felt feelings I know are not mine and I have communicated with her in my dreams. Yet, the places I see her in are not anything I recognize. There is a large white man’s house with a lot of rooms. Sometimes I see her on a balcony with an ocean behind her. I don’t know more grandfather. I wish I could tell you more.

When was the last time you saw her? Alexander asked.

Calico shrugged her shoulders. A few weeks ago. I know she hurts.

Hurts how? Alexander asked.

She shook her head. She’s scared. I don’t know what it is that has her frightened so. I had thought at one time I was the cause of her grief because of the experiences I had with Black Buffalo’s father. But… she paused, scrunching her face then relaxed it. I don’t know… she’s insecure and fearful. It’s as if her life is threatened.

By whom? Alexander asked.

I don’t know, Uncle Alex. She pushes me away whenever she realizes our spiritual bond is allowing our souls to come together. I’m sorry. I want to help her, but I don’t know how.

You must try to forget her, granddaughter. Rose made her choice when you two were eight. She does not want to be Shawnee, Chief Big Deer taught.

You should listen well to your grandfather’s words, wife, Little Owl encouraged.

Calico shook her head, You both don’t understand. I can’t just will for the release of this connection I have with her to go away. It’s always been with me. I can sense she lives in the white man’s world. God and his angels interact with her just as the guides and Our Grandmother do with me. But our souls are connected through the spiritual divide between both worlds. I can’t explain it. I wouldn’t even know where to begin if I could.

Perhaps, you shouldn’t, Fox Fire suggested from behind them. Alexander and Chief Big Deer turned to face the Kishpoko elder.

Father, she chose Shawnee, Little Owl objected.

Fox Fire raised his hand towards his son as he approached them. Son, you are so blinded by this need for everything to be Shawnee, which, he interjected as Little Owl opened his mouth, is not a completely bad thing. I know you want to maintain our people’s culture. You always have been one to protect what is our heritage. That is a good thing. I’m not saying your wife shouldn’t accept our way of life. She has already done so. Her spirit is Shawnee. But could it be that our greatest weapon against the settlers is one who understands how their spirits work? How they think? How they move? I’m not good with spiritual matters. Far be it for me to tell you what the spirit should do in matters such as these, but I am a warrior. I would want to know more about my enemies than they know about me.

He has a point, Alexander offered. Our village has been successful because of the information I and Pierre have given you. But I can no longer give you military information because I am no longer a military physician and Pierre has left our village. You wounded Michael so greatly that he will be useless to us for months maybe even a year. Hawk Song can give us information but not as much as either I or Pierre could ever give you.

And just how are we to use the information my wife has? Little Owl asked.

I don’t know, Little Owl. Calico’s connection with her sister isn’t something I have ever heard of, but they are twins. Twin magic is more powerful than any magic in the world. We shouldn’t mess with it unless we understand it.

Agreed, Chief Big Deer said. He turned to Little Owl. Don’t dismiss your wife’s concerns’ Little Owl. She means well.

Little Owl lowered his head, trying to think but his head hurt even worse the more he tried