Talisa

Chapter Thirteen | Never A Burden

{ At the turn of the twentieth century, the total number of Indigenous inhabiting the entire Western Hemisphere had declined to 4-4.5 million. }

Zadie began spending most of her days with her new found friend Sunflower. The delightful filly had became the vibrant light of her dark days as each interaction warmed her heart and seemed to soothe her soul. This was not her first ever companion. During childhood she once had a cat named Felix whom she became quite attached to, however the connection she has established with Sunflower could not compare. Maybe it was apart of her mourning? With a heart so fragile it maybe latched onto Sunflower, depending entirely on the foul to feel even an ounce of love. 

"I worry for her," Mausi said to Yahoo. Together, and with great concern, they watched Zadie braid and brush Sunflower's mane. Observing how she took extra care and time to look after the growing foul.

Yaholo drew together his brows, not entirely seeing her point. "Why? This is the most we've ever seen her smile." 

"This is true," Mausi agreed. "The joy the filly brings her is undeniable. However, it is only the foul that brings her joy."

She was right. In fact with Zadie spending most her time with Sunflower it had proven to be more difficult to draw her away from her new companion. How can she get involved with the community if she insisted on distancing herself. She took every meal in her hut, refused to join any of the community council gatherings, and when the village held any activities she will hide in the shadows just to barely be present. 

"I know what father commanded you. Hothlepoya had told me." Concern creasing her forehead. "At this time I think the best thing to do is be direct. Tell her what will happen if she does not contribute to the village or become a part of the community. She cannot continue to lurk in the shadows but then benefit from our food and shelter."

Yaholo completely disagreed, though he was quite partial to Zadie in every way. "We should not use force, Mausi." His voice unintentionally becoming stern and defensive. "I'm surprised you of all people would even suggest that." Mausi is well known for her soft nature--kind, empathetic, compassionate, and loving almost even to a fault.  

"Don't look at me like that, brother." Tears threatened to fall from her eyes. "I only speak like this out of concern for our people." Mausi attempted to soften her voice in order to suppress Yaholo's temper. "Many of the women have begun to talk and--"

Yaholo's demeanor further darkened and his shoulders stiffened. "Talk?" He irritably chuckled. "And what do they say? Hmm?"

"Now Yaholo, I--"

Ignoring her he continued to speak fiercely. "Do they sympathize with her pain? Or empathize? No one seems to take into consideration the tragedy that she has endured within such a short amount of time. Instead they gossip. They judge her and resent her though she is no different from us. Why? For what? This is not the way of our people. What has become of us? We are becoming as the White man."

Mausi jaw tighten and her lip trembled. She admired her brother for his passion in defense for a loved one. In fact it was at that moment in which she realized just how much her brother loved Zadie. It was not a simple infatuation, a mere fancy, or even a burning desire. Yaholo was entirely and absolutely in love with Zadie.

"Do not act as if I do not know her struggles." Mausi finally was able to interject. "How many times had she cried in your arms compared to mine? How many days did you watch her crumble and weep until sleep took her?" Mausi gripped Yaholo's shoulder when he tried to turn away. "I love her, too, Yaholo, but you must understand that I love my people as well. Look at me, brother." She took Yaholo's face I her hands. "If we do not do something now she will be exiled and then what will become of her?"