Hearts Across the Divide

The Preparation

The journey back home was long and filled with a sense of both sorrow and honor. Wuka's warriors carried his fallen body with pride, chanting as they went, paying their respects to their fallen leader. It was clear that Wuka would be given a proper burial, a testament to his significance and the sacrifice he had made for his people.

As the path splits, the eagle clan taking one direction and Wuka's villagers moving in the opposite way, a moment of quiet reflection settles over the weary travelers. It's a bittersweet moment, marked by the realization that the time together has come to an end and the tribes are returning to their separate homes.

As you look to Noa, your eyes are filled with determination, and a sense of resolve. You make your way towards Loui, your steps purposeful and resolute. Noa watches you, a flicker of understanding passing through his eyes, although he remains silent, observing your actions with a mix of trepidation and support.

You approach Loui, bowing respectfully to the newly appointed leader of the village. Your voice is filled with politeness and respect as you speak. "Chief Loui, fearless warrior, son of Wuka, I ask you for a blessing." There's a hint of seriousness in your tone, signaling the importance of your request.

Loui looks down at you for a moment, a thoughtful expression on his face. Then, he gently pulls you up off the ground, signaling for you to stand upright. "Stand up," he says, his voice firm yet kind.

Loui wraps his arms around you in a warm embrace, his voice soft and sincere. "Noa is... true," he affirms, a gentle smile on his face. There's an understanding in his eyes, a recognition of the bond you and Noa share.

With a gesture from Loui, Noa steps forward. There's a hint of anticipation in the air as if something significant is about to happen. Noa stands before you and Loui, his eyes fixed on you with a mixture of curiosity and affection.

Loui claps one hand on Noa's shoulder with a wry smile. "I do not understand... how Eagle Clan handles traditions... but warriors hold great pride... in ceremony. Especially when it is for sister... and her mate," he explains, his tone lighthearted yet filled with affection. His remark is met with a soft, affectionate gesture as he ruffles your head, emphasizing the importance of this moment.

Noa smiles at Loui, his expression a mix of respect and understanding. This small exchange between the two leaders is a silent acknowledgment of mutual respect and comradeship. It's a moment of acknowledgment and shared understanding among those who hold positions of authority.

Loui proclaims with pride, "A month." Your smile falters at his words, a sense of impatience growing within you. The prospect of waiting an entire month feels unbearable, and your expression reflects your disappointment.

As Loui declares one month, you can no longer contain your impatience. You express your dissatisfaction with a hint of desperation. "Loui, don't you think we could do it sooner?" Your voice is filled with a mix of urgency and hope, hoping for a shorter timeframe for the ceremony.

Noa stands beside you, observing the exchange between you and Loui with a mixture of surprise and anticipation. He can sense your disappointment at the prospect of waiting an entire month and understands your desire to move forward. Noa remains silent, but his gaze shifts towards Loui, silently waiting for his response.

Your mother, sensing your frustration, interjects with a firm and determined tone. "A week!" she declares, her voice carrying a hint of urgency. Her words echo through the air, emphasizing the desire to shorten the waiting period.

Dar, joining the conversation, approaches her son and nods in agreement. "I was thinking... the same," she echoes softly. There's a glimmer of understanding in her eyes, reflecting the shared hope that the ceremony can happen sooner rather than later.