Two-Spirit

Chapter 31

A woman I recognize as Dutsu's mother glares at Ama as we walk past her, hand in hand. Ama pays her no mind and we continue on our way out of the village, hoping for a chance to finally enjoy the lake.

Since Dutsu's death, I've learned that he wasn't liked by many, other than his warriors and close family nobody grieved him. It's been two weeks since his burial and the village continues on like nothing happened, Ama was right to say she wouldn't face any consequences. It makes me wonder why Dutsu was even the war chief. They've already made one of his warriors the new war chief, his name is Danuwoa and he is kind unlike Dutsu.

I'm sure it would be different if her people find out it was I who slayed Dutsu. He was defenseless in the moment I stabbed him, I could have ran instead of stabbing him. Even knowing that I don't feel guilty though I'm certainly not glad to have blood on my hands yet, I know he deserved it, he was a twisted man.

My worry for Ama proved to be unnecessary as she recovered alright, there was no longer any sign that she was choked. The only thing on me that remains as a reminder is the scar on my neck which rests above the other I have according to Ama.

"I think Corie and Yona are fond of one another." Ama opines as we trudge alongside the river.

The assumption doesn't come as a shock. "I've thought the same." I look at her.

Ma and Pa left as of last week and since Corie has been visiting more, I must admit that Yona and him are always together when he comes and they are quite kind to each other. Knowing of Yona's past courtship I must admit it is a bit odd that she takes kind to my brother.

She chuckles with a shake of her. "Do you think they know?"

"Certainly not. We didn't know for the longest." I give her hand a gentle squeeze.

She hums. "Quite true."

An hour or so later we reach the lake and release each others hand. I smile and take in a deep breath, feeling at peace even with what occurred here.

To the left of the lake, I spot a captivating tree, one unlike the rest. Much larger than any other, the branches reaching far and wide. In London I'd see similar but never this type.

"Why are you still dressed?" Ama teases to my right and I tear my eyes away from the work of nature.

I look to find her standing in all her glory, her garments piled near her feet. I giggle and begin removing my own without hesitation, enjoying how her eyes never leave my body. She never fails to make me feel beautiful, as if I'm a work of nature myself.

She holds her hand out for me when I step out of my shoes. I take her hand and let her lead me into the water. It starts to reach past my neck before it does her so I stop.

"Wait!" I exclaim, already feeling embarrassed by what I have to unveil.

A frown fits her face when she turns to me. "What is it?" She steps closer in concern.

"I-I can not swim." I mutter.

I've never had the opportunity to learn, Corie either. We were trapped inside most of our lives. It's why nature fascinates me, it's was always a mystery. The flowers in my journal were from our garden or Lucile, our gardener would bring them to me.

She smiles kindly. "Then I'll teach you."

Hearing such leaves me quite elated. She is always so quick to help me. "I'd like that." I reply.

Ama teaching me to swim is what soon followed, along with many kisses and laughs. In a mere few hours I'm able to swim a short distance, albeit at a slow pace. Considering it progress and being too tired to continue, I decide to be done for the day.