3.23. Wenona: "I'm the creator"

I am Wenona Blessing Moon, a daughter of creator heiress Pavati Blessing Moon and honorable man Sakuruta. My name means "firstborn daughter" in my native language. Now I am creator and tribal leader myself. It's not easy to be creator, especially when you have to punish those you love. It's also not easy when others aren't happy with your decision. I mean my brother twin Kotori. He came to me and asked:
- And that's all?
- What do you mean? - I asked Kotori.
- Do you call it punishment?
His voice sounded ironic and even derisively, I couldn't allow him to talk to me in such manner.
- I don't know what you think and this time I won't know it, my brother, - I said him. - I am a creator of the Blessing Moon tribe and I decide how to punish my tribal people if they are unfaithful to tribal laws and traditions you like it or not.

Yes, I know I raised my voice and looked at him with pride in my eyes, but I didn't have another choice. If even Kotori is my brother twin he has to know that I am tribal leader and I know what I do. My brother knows me as I know him, so he understood my glance and my words. He didn't like what I said him as he turned away and left me, but he still accepted my decision. I didn't ask Kotori what he thinks and why he wished that Suletu and Okomi would be more punished, but I could say I know the reason. Kotori had a crush on Suletu when we were younger and she rejected him, but my brother's grievances isn't the reason why I should punish Suletu and Okomi even more than I punished them. I think this punishment will be enough to them for the whole life.
I couldn't sleep the whole night that night. I was sad that I had to do that. Someday we all were happy kids and we were one family. Yes, it was a time when Okomi hated Tahatan, but we were so young... Now everything is forgotten and forgiven, Okomi loves Tahatan like his older brother and Tahatan is upset for him as he cares of Okomi like he always did... Unfortunately, we aren't kids longer and to be adult isn't easy. You make mistakes and learn from them, mostly it's always painful. If you think you did right, but others think you did wrong. Someone will love you and someone will hate you silently. I think Suletu and Okomi hate me, they didn't talk to me since that night. However, they'll never say that loud as I am a creator. You'll never be good for all if even you'll be the fairest and most honest person in the world. And I feel really lucky that I've met my soulmate Noel. Life would be much harder without him. He is my adviser and my soul's consolation when I'm sad. Sometimes he reminds me my brother Tahatan. They both have strong spirit, it's not easy to break such people. Noel always finds the solution and the right words when they're needed. I felt really very bad when I found that I'm with child again. Otherwise I would be very happy, but after all what happened to Suletu and Kotori... However, Noel rejoyced and even wiped a tear of joy.

When I said him what I think and how I feel he listened to me looking at me with serious face and said:
- You did what you had to do, my love. If someone did something wrong they have to be punished. I know it's not easy to be a judge, but you are creator and it's your duty. If even all your decisions become a burden... Never doubt in yourself if even you'll make a mistake someday, people need a leader they could follow, - he looked deeply at my eyes. - That's what I learned living in my native tribe and watching my creator there. There were some women what wanted to see her dead, but they didn't dare to rebel against her as she never doubted in herself, - he smiled at me. - However, life goes on, my dear creator, you can't stay in your past as your tribe needs you here and now. And here I am, your soul twin and your devoted friend, I'll always help you to carry your burden, you can count on me.

I didn't have what to say, the best answer was an embrace.

 I know I can count on Noel... I'm not the only who loves Noel. All kids in our tribe adore him. He always know how to make them laugh telling them funny stories about animals and tales. If it would be possible they would follow Noel anywhere and it always makes me smile.

Our Sihu is daddy's girl.

But who wouldn't love Sihu? Even Kotori has a special and soft spot for her in his heart.

It's so good to see her and other kids enjoying their childhood. When I look at our children I always think that we are still happy tribe if even we have bad moments sometimes.

Yes, Noel is right. I'm the creator and I have to lead my people to the future. If I punish them I do that only because I love them and want to teach them respect the tribal traditions and laws. I'm not a torturer. I just want to be right. If even someone thinks different.
I hope Suletu and Okomi will forgive me someday.

3.22. Suletu: lonely, sad and jealous

My name is Suletu. My parents weren't originally from Blessing Moon tribe, but they gave me a name according to the Blessing Moon tribe traditions. My name means "flies, to fly around" and I really feel like I am flying. I always fly somewhere or I did it before... I was carefree child who never cared what will happen tomorrow. I always far from reality and even didn't think that someday I'll be punished and... I'll lose almost everything. Yes, I remember how mother told me that one day I'll be Moon Maiden and will live in Nanina's Temple where I'll learn many things. Mother always said me that there I'll be happy, but honestly I've never wanted to live in Nanina's Temple and leave my home, my parents, Okomi, Wenona and her brothers... I knew they envied me although they never talked about it. I had parents, they were orphans. I saw a pain in their eyes although my parents loved them like their real children... However, I... Sometimes I enjoyed quietly that I am so lucky. I was the youngest and it felt so good. Now I understand that I was selfish, but then... Then I was just a little girl what wanted to get all attention and love. And then my parents died together with the old world. Nanina punished me just like that night. Perhaps because I avoided Moon Maiden's life in the temple and always wanted to have more than I had. I'm not fighter, I am not warrior if even Wenona taught me that. I am just a girl who fell in love with her childhood friend... Is it bad? I wanted to love and enjoy my life. But they speak about the traditions and how it's important. They took from us our dignity... And I even don't know what is better - to lose your baby or to lose your dignity as woman or man? But baby grew inside me making me throw up again and again... All these months were marked by deep sadness and my bad health. And solitude. I felt so alone... Like never before.

I didn't want to have baby. I guess it's a sign that I'm not good mother. I had a son named Halian. It means "youthful, young".  I like babies and kids, but... I think to be mother isn't easy. All these sleepless nights make you not only tired... You feel like dead. In all meanings.

Okomi still doesn't talk to me. He avoids me... It hurts me so much. Yes, he was right, it happened too early. Maybe he is angry on me? But why? Shouldn't we support each other? That night when Wenona punished us was the last time when we talked. And they all enjoy themselves and their babies... Shaman Nikki and Tahatan had twins again. Now they had two sons Anoki and Atohi. Tahatan was on the cloud nine.

Anoki and Atohi will grow up soon and my son is still in the crib. Well, Halian is also Okomi's son. I hope he comes to him when I am not around. Chatan, Kotori and Maat son, already is a boy. He is smart like his mother and even has her red hair and blue eyes.

Kotori loves his son so much. If even he isn't a good person he loves children. I think I am worse than Kotori.

When was born his daughter Tama he cuddled her and talked to her so gently. Kotori is great father. I wasn't so happy when I had Halian. His birth took all my energy from me.

But not everything is so bad. I always smile when I see how Tahatan scolds his daughters or teaches them some valuable lesson. It's not because I enjoy their quarrel, it's because it warms me inside. He knows how to talk to children, it's so funny. I am learning how to be better to my son than I am.

And such moments when I see Maat, Kotori and their little boy talking to Wenona... I feel bad. It's not because I am jealous. I am not... It's just... I miss something. Maybe I miss Okomi... Maybe I miss that part of me what was taken from me. I don't know...

And still... If I'll not say that I'll not be honest with myself.
I am jealous.
Yes, I am. If I even I won't admit it.
Okomi avoids me, but he never forgot to talk to Maat. I see them often together. I feel weird... It's like I am a shadow and she means much more than I. But who cares about the shadows?

I don't know what to think. I don't know what I should expect from the future and my fate, where I am going... Everything had to be different, however, it is as it is. I ruined my life and I am afraid that things will get even worse in time.

3.21. The rivals

Nikki couldn't sleep the whole night. Her belly was already big, so it wasn't easy to find the right pose. Tahatan slept like dead and even snorted sometimes, when she rolled from one side to another still thinking about the same...  Even closing her eyes Nikki saw scared Suletu and Okomi. She broke their lives, changed their future. Once Nikki saw it in her native tribe, but she's never thought she'll have to do the same and she did that to those she sincerely liked.
In the morning she got up angry and being in the terribly bad mood. Everything seemed bad. Her pregnancy, this morning, arguing daughters outside and Tahatan with his silly questions. Nikki even didn't feel how she yelled at him asking to leave her in silence and rushed outside. No, she can't run. Now she waddles like a fat duck and is slower even than an earthworm. Nikki hid behind the bushes and burst in tears.
- What did I tell you, brother? Nikki will never change, - she heard Kotori's voice.
- She's tired and very pregnant... - Tahatan defended Nikki.
- Do you think she will change after the birth of baby? - Kotori chuckled. - I don't think so...
- I don't know, Kotori, - Tahatan sighed. - People change sometimes.
- It's not about Nikki, she'll never change.

- Shut up you two! - Nikki mumbled angrily.

Men didn't hear her. Tahatan went somewhere and Nikki heard how Maat called Kotori. She stayed alone. Solitude always healed her, so soon she felt better. It was a time to eat something, so she left her hiding place and went to bonfire.

***

- Good morning, Nikki, - she heard Maat's voice.  - How are you? When your baby will be born?
- Soon, - Nikki muttered.
- I am also pregnant... Again, - Maat giggled happily. - Goddess Nanina really loves us!
Nikki felt how a mouthful stuck in her mouth.
- Are you sure?
- Yes... - Maat nodded happily. - But you can check me. I would like to know what we'll have...
- It's not necessary, - Nikki's voice sounded gloomy. - If woman says she's with child it means she is... Women are wrong very rarely. Did you say about it Kotori?
- Not yet... And here he is coming!
Nikki didn't say anything, she just grimaced behind Maat's face and hid behind the bush.

- I have the news for you, my hawk, - Maat said joyfully Kotori.
- What news, my red flower? - Kotori smiled.
- Nanina gave us one more chance to become parents, Kotori. I am with a child again.
- Oh,.. Can it be?! - Kotori was pleasantly surprised.
- Yes... It's a truth, my beloved hawk. Are you ready to meed one more cute baby just like its daddy and mom? - Maat asked playfully.
- Surely, my beautiful flower!
- Am I the only and most beautiful flower? - Maat giggled.
- I didn't see more beautiful flower than my Maat!

Nikki couldn't listen to them longer. She felt how the tears filled her eyes again. The jealousy covered her. And why did she have to hear it? Why all world has to remind her how she wants this man? Why she can't be Maat? Why?

***

- Do you believe in Kotori's words? - Nikki asked Maat when Kotori left.
- Did you stand here and listened to us? - Maat looked surprised at Nikki. - I thought you went!
- You didn't answer to my question.
- Ok. Yes, I believe in Kotori's words, - answered Maat. - But how does it relate to you, Nikki?
Nikki felt how her face got red.
- It's not related to me in any way... But I dare to remind you that you aren't the only and most beautiful woman in this world, Maat. Such men like Kotori are liars. Today he admires you calling you his only and most beautiful flower, tomorrow he'll say the same to another woman, - Nikki smiled ironically.

- I don't understand you, Nikki, - Maat smiled and looked mockingly at Nikki's eyes. - Are you jealous?
- Me? - Nikki laughed. - Come on, woman!

- No... You'll not fool me, - Maat laughed. - I always tried to guess what means that your glance when you look at Kotori. Now I know... You fell in love with him!
- Do you think you are very smart, Maat? - Nikki felt how she became even more angry. She didn't want to hear the truth about herself, especially from Maat's mouth. - But I have to disappoint you as you know nothing!
- No... Your eyes tell me much more than you think, Nikki! And they tell me totally different things than your tongue! Your tongue lies, Nikki!
- I didn't know you are such expert of truth, - Nikki mocked at Maat.

Maat laughed and looked at Nikki's eyes.
- Kotori is my mate, Nikki. He'll never be yours, so stop making plans how to drag him into the bushes.
- He's not your property. He is a tribal son, not a slave, - Nikki felt how her hands are shaking in anger.
- He chose me!
Nikki laughed.
- Yes, but maybe tomorrow he'll choose me or someone else?
- Stop it! You are real witch!
- Witch? Never dare to call me a witch again, do you hear me? - Nikki narrowed her eyes.
- I'm not afraid of you!
- You should... - Nikki's voice sounded frightening and mysterious.
- What's going here?  - was hear Kotori's voice.
Maat didn't answer. She turned away and left.
- You... Again... - said Kotori.
- Yes. Me. Again, - Nikki answered.
They stood looking at each other with hatred.

- Stikini...
Nikki smiled.
- Why do you smile here?
- Because you are silly, Kotori. Silly like all men, - she answered waddling to her tent. - And you'll be mine... - she said silently. Kotori couldn't hear her words. -  No matter when, but you'll be mine, - Nikki caressed her huge belly and frowned in the pain she just felt.
It was a time, her baby was ready to come. Now she'll concentrate her mind and energy on the baby, but she'll never forget this conversation... Maat will not forget it, too.

3.20. The punishment

It was already the late evening. Suletu tried to eat her dinner, but she was afraid she'll throw up again like in the morning. She felt really bad in all meanings. It seemed the whole world was against her... Suletu felt tired of her own thoughts "what will happen if..." She wanted the silence, but she knew she has forget about it for a while.
- Are you nauseous, Suletu? - she heard Wenona's voice.
Suletu didn't dare to look at her creator and big sister.
- When did you have your moon days last time?
- I can't remember, my creator, - Suletu answered silently. - It was long time ago...
- And what do you think of that, Suletu?

Suletu didn't doubt that Wenona knows the truth. Okomi told her everything, so there was no reason to lie, but it also wasn't easy to talk about it.
- I... I don't know... - Suletu's voice trembled. -  I didn't think it will happen so soon.
- It will always happen,  Suletu... Later or earlier. It's not a game! - Wenona's voice sounded strict. - I didn't think you and Okomi will be so naive... and you'll break the traditions and laws.
- I am sorry, my creator! I know we did wrong, but we can't change anything, right? - Suletu looked at Wenona scared.
- No, we can't change anything, you are right, - Wenona nodded. - Your baby will be born and we will raise him or her as it is in our tribe. But it doesn't mean you and Okomi will avoid the punishment. It will be a great opportunity to learn from your own mistakes.
Suletu lowered her head.
- My mother made the same mistake like you and Okomi, my grandmother told me about it... But then goddess Nanina punished her taking her baby away! I hope it will not happen to you, Suletu... - Wenona came closer to the girl and looked straight at her eyes. - I am mother myself, I wish you would carry your baby and he or she would come to this world being strong and healthy. Do you think it is easy?
Suletu shook her head.
- Good, you understand it at least!
- But I'm... I'm almost adult... - Suletu said.
- If I am right your next Birthday should happen after few months. The word Almost means nothing and you know it.

Suletu didn't say anything. She didn't know what to say.
- Invite all to the fire! - Wenona told the girl.
- Yes, my creator... - Suletu said feeling neither alive nor dead, but she had to do what was told.

***

- I didn't ask you to come without a reason, - Wenona looked carefully at everyone. Fire shadows danced on the people's faces. They all looked at their creator wondering what has happened and why they are here. - I know this is unusual, mostly we have tribal meetings at day time, but something has happened in our tribe and I want to let you know about it. Soon we'll have one more baby in our tribe. Suletu and Okomi are gonna to be parents.
Maat turned her face to Suletu and Okomi. She was surprised. Tahatan was quiet as always. Kotori smiled. Nikki threw indignant glance at both lovers. Noel seemed worried.
- Yes, they broke the tribal and traditions and laws and they'll be punished for that, - Wenona continued. - This baby will be the only baby for you both, - she looked at Suletu and Okomi, then turned to Nikki. - It's a time, my sister.
Nikki nodded silently and came to Suletu and Okomi. She had two bows filled with some liquor.
- Both of you are fools... - she muttered gloomy. - Take it!
Suletu and Okomi took the bowls looking surprised and worried at Nikki.
- When you'll drink it you'll both never have children. If you were a slave, Okomi, you would be useless, unless only for scrubbing the pots. Any Amazon tribe wouldn't buy you, - Nikki smiled ironically. - You also, Suletu. You will be barren as an apple tree that stands for years and doesn't give any fruit, even worms don't want to chew it...
Suletu stared at Nikki with full eyes of tears. Her words sounded scary, but it was better than to lose the baby and be banished from the tribe. She felt how Okomi's hand gently squeezed her fingers.
- Drink the drink, Okomi and Suletu, - Wenona's voice seemed so distant.
- My baby... - Suletu whispered.
- It will not do any damage to your baby, - Nikki said. - Your baby will grow and will be born like all babies. This poison will damage only you as woman...
Suletu and Okomi changed the glances.
- Let's drink it together... - said Okomi.
- Yes... - Suletu nodded and put the bowl to her mouth. The drink wasn't disgusting, it was just bitter a bit.
Nikki looked sadly at her eyes and took their empty bowls.
- It's just one part of your punishment, - said Wenona.
Okomi and Suletu looked at their creator surprised.
- You have to learn the patience and discipline, - Wenona smiled subtle. - We are warriors tribe and we learn it since young days, but it seems you didn't learn to as well as you had to learn. So you, Suletu, and you, Okomi, will never stay with each other in privacy. You'll be always surrounded by other people. I forbid you two to sleep in one tent to Suletu's Birthday. If you'll break my order, both of you will be banished from the tribe. As you know I always keep my word, - Wenona bowed. - All assembled here can testify my words.
- Yes, creator! Yes, my creator! - were heard the voices.
- Thank you... Now all can go to rest, - Wenona threw a short glance at Suletu and Okomi and left quickly a bonfire.

***

Suletu couldn't believe in what just happened. She felt like dazed. Okomi even didn't look at her. It seemed like he is busy with trying to grill something for late dinner, but she knew he was very sad. They'll never have children. Never. But they both and their baby were alive. Wasn't it the greatest gift they've got from their creator and big sister? Suletu didn't know how accept it. She was too tired and still shocked. Suddenly she bursted in laughter.

She giggled louder and louder till her laughter started to sound almost crazy. Okomi stared at her worried.
- Suletu? Are you ok?
But Suletu didn't answer. Her shoulders twitched of silent lament. Okomi gave a deep sigh and came to her. He didn't know any words what could comfort them both, so he just stood beside holding Suletu's hand. The night seemed darker than ever before.

3.19. Tell the truth

They sat on the shore of river long time. Only few days ago this place was their favorite place where they could be only two and share their love without fear that someone will notice them. But today everything was different. Suletu cried and Okomi felt comfused and scared no less than his lover.

- So you don't want this baby?! - Suletu looked at Okomi. Her eyes were full of tears.

- I didn't say that! I'm just saying it didn't have to happen now, it's too early, - Okomi caressed Suletu's shoulder.

- But we can't change that, right?! Maybe do you think I can take out a baby and hide it somewhere asking to wait till I'll have my next Birthday? - Suletu smiled ironically.

Okomi frowned.

- I'm not mocking at you. I am serious, so stop talking nonsenses... Baby will not wait, baby grows inside you, Suletu, - he looked gloomy at the girl. - One day your belly will be huge like Nikkis. We have to talk to Wenona and say her about baby. No matter what will happen.

A fear loomed in Suletu's eyes.

- She will kill us...

- Wenona? I don't think so... But she'll punish us, yes, - Okomi nodded.

- Oh no, Okomi... - Suletu shook her head and wept silently. - She can't punish me and baby, it's not a baby's fault!

- I know... - Okomi said lowering his head. - But still... - he made a short pause. - As I said we have to say a truth.

- No! - Suletu exclaimed.

Okomi looked at his crying lover for some time. It was really hard... He didn't know how to comfort Suletu and himself, he knew only one - any cruel truth is better than any sweet lie. 

- I will do that, - finally he said.

Suletu wiped her tears and looked scared at Okomi.

- What will you do?

- I'll talk to Wenona.

- Please... - Suletu grabbed Okomi's hand. - Don't do that! 

- We don't have another choice, Suletu. If we'll lie or we'll try escape then we can really die... - Okomi talked looking at Suletu's eyes. - I want to protect us and our baby. Do you understand?

Suletu wept again. She nodded silently. Okomi kissed her hair and left.

***

Okomi returned to the tribal camp. He stood looking around and thinking what he'll say to his creator. Suddenly he noticed Tahatan. Okomi smiled watching how his childhood friend tries to make a bonsai. It still was his hobby... Nova, their step-mother, taught him how to create bonsai and Tahatan saved her lessons in his mind and his heart. What would say Nova if she would know what happened to her daughter Suletu and him? However, he'll never know that as Nova was dead. 

- Tahatan... - Okomi came to his friend. 

- Yes, Okomi... - Tahatan answered without turning his head.

- You always were very wise... When I remember how I fought against you when we were kids I still feel very ashamed, - Okomi smiled a bit. - I was such stupid little boy who's heart was full of grudge.

Tahatan chuckled.

- It happened many summers and winters ago, Okomi. Why we have to remember that? We aren't kids now, we are adult men, - he looked for short at Okomi and smiled. 

Okomi smiled back at him.

- Why I see so much anxiety in my friend's eyes? - Tahatan asked and turned away. He took the scissors and continued his work on bonsai.

Okomi stood silent for a while.

- I got in troubles, Tahatan. I and Suletu, - he said at least. - I need your advice.

- What was happened, Okomi?

- Suletu is with a child, Tahatan.

Okomi noticed how Tahatan's face fell although he still cut the branches of the tree.

- You have to talk to my sister, Okomi. Right now.

- And?

- I don't know, brother. I am not Wenona. But she is a right and noble person, - Tahatan looked at his cousin. - Tell her a truth, it's the best advice I can give you, Okomi.

- Thank you, - Okomi said silently and went.

***

It was easy to say "Tell her the truth"... Okomi knew that he must to tell the truth, but how... How to come to Wenona and say that he and Suletu broke the tribal laws and traditions? It wasn't easy. Wenona will be disappointed in him and Suletu, he felt ashamed and even more upset. He hid in his tent trying to hide his deep sadness from other eyes. Even from Suletu. He thought all night what he can to do, is here another solution... But, unfortunately, he couldn't think anything more wiser. Tahatan was right, he has to tell the truth. Okomi knew that since that moment when Suletu said him she's pregnant, but he couldn't... No, he's not coward, he just wanted to avoid that feeling of shame when he'll have to look at Wenona's eyes. And still... Okomi understood that if he'll stay in his tent it will not help neither him nor Suletu. It was early morning, one more new day and one more day of anxiety and fear for his and Suletu fate, but he MUST to do that. Right now. Okomi felt very tired and his eyes burnt of lack of sleep, but he still determined to find Wenona and tell her a truth.

***

Okomi found Wenona standing near the bonfire. She seemed quiet and reticent as always. Okomi smiled and stood beside her.

- Good morning, my creator and big sister.

- Good morning, Okomi, - Wenona answered, a subtle smile appeared on her face.

- My dear Wenona... We have to talk.

- What about, Okomi? - Wenona raised her brow. - Isn't still early morning, my brother?

- It's serious, my creator... If I'll not do that I'll go crazy.

Wenona turned her face to Okomi. 

- I am listening to you. You can talk, - she nodded and turned to fire again.

- My creator, I and Suletu... - Okomi made a pause looking down at his moccasins. - We made a big mistake. I feel very ashamed for that, but I won't be liar and be even more ashamed when you'll command other tribal sons to cut my tongue. 

- What are you talking about, Okomi?! - Wenona looked at her cousin surprised. - I don't understand...

- I want to tell you a truth and only a truth, my creator... Suletu is with a child. 

- What?! - Wenona gasped covering her face. 

- I know we broke the tribal traditions and rules! - Okomi started gesticulate his hands in the fear and excitement. - I know that I am villain as I didn't stop Suletu in time and allowed her to seduce me! Then nobody could stop us... - he lowered his head. - I am a weak person, my creator... 

Wenona stood silent like a rock for a while. It was hard to say what she thinks. This moment seemed like an eternity for Okomi, but he didn't dare to break this silence. 

- Why didn't Suletu come to me herself? - Wenona asked silently.

- She is scared, my creator, - Okomi swallowed feeling how his palms became wet. - It's my fault, creator Wenona... Only my fault. I am older than Suletu, I had to think about the consequences...

- Shut up, Okomi! - Wenona raised her voice.

Okomi stopped talking. Wenona sat down by the fire.

- Sit, - she told Okomi.

Okomi sat silently next to her.

- If it had happened many years ago you would be killed only for the fact you touched a teenage girl, Suletu would be banished from the tribe, - Wenona said in a calm voice. - However, it was many years ago. I'll not do that, Okomi, - she looked at the guy. - I cherish my people. 

Okomi looked at Wenona catching her every word.

- But it doesn't mean you'll avoid the punishment, Okomi.

- What punishment? - Okomi swallowed.

- I'll let you know later. Now find Nikki and say her that I want to talk to her.

Okomi nodded and stood up.

- I will find Nikki, my creator, - he bowed to Wenona and went to look for shaman.

***

Wenona followed with her eyes Okomi till he vanished behind the tents. She gave a deep sigh and looked at the fire. It was so hard to be creator. She didn't like to punish and she's never did that before, but she had to do that if even she loved Okomi and Suletu like her real siblings. If even they'll hate her after what she'll tell them to do. To save and teach her people to respect the tribal traditions and laws was Wenona's duty. If she'll not do that she'll be weak creator and very bad example for her daughter.

- Mom! - suddenly she heard Sihu's voice. - Why are you hiding here? 

- I am not hiding, Sihu, - Wenona smiled. - I am waiting for shaman Nikki.

- But your eyes are sad, - a little girl looked worried at her mother. - Did someone made you upset, mommy?

- Sometimes we have to accept the challenges, my little one.

- Oh, mommy... I'll try never upset you, I promise! - a little girl stretched her hands and hugged her mother tightly.

Wenona hugged her daughter back with a gentle smile on her face.

- I believe in you... - she said silently.

Sihu was her greatest consolation.

The Spirit Animal Award

It's a big honor to me and the Blessing Moon tribe to receive such nomination. Thank you, DarciTheFox!

I accept this award as sign of the acceptance and honor that the Blessing Moon tribe really worth to live and exist.

1. Firstly I'd like to thank one more time to DarciTheFox and my other readers for being with me and the Blessing Moon tribe. And also big thanks Pammiechick and her tribe Wahini for inspiring me to write this story.

3. I am adult very creative and artistic person. I live in seaport near Baltic Sea, in beautiful and small country Lithuania in North - Eastern Europe. Yes, I am planning to move in Germany, but Lithuania will always stay my native country.
I love The Sims and I always wanted to write some wonderful story about my sims. I write a book and it's totally different thing than writing SimLit. Honestly, I've never written the stories in foreign language, so it's a big challenge and a great experience to me. I am really glad that I remembered my Indian Spirit (it lives in me since 12 years old) and let it live in my story. I love writing. I started to write when I was just a child. I wrote many things - lyrics for my ex band, poems, but stories are my favorite writing. I also like to dance, travel, paint, read books and to do many other interesting things. I am also a big fan of gothic music. It's my the only religion I guess.
The Blessing Moon tribe is very precious to me. It was my first The Sims story I wrote not only for myself, but I shared it with others. There were other stories on my Weebly Blog, but unfortunatelly, they weren't meant to survive my laptop's "apocalypse". My story about the Blessing Moon tribe is the only story I am writing now.

4. If I would be animal I would be a crow. I can't say why. But I found American Natives horoscope and it says that my Spirit Animal is Hawk. I would love it. Freedom means a lot to me.

5. I would like to nominate from a bottom of my heart:

Marialein and her story about tribe Naheli
Sabreen and her The Elstree legacy
Pammiechick and her wonderful story "The Mansion On Horrid Hill" (I would nominate all her stories, but I don't know if I can to do that according the rules)
Persefona711 and her story about Moore family
ThePlumbob and her "The Bloomer Legacy"
Hemera123 and her "Forgotten Swans tribe"
Frantika and her story about tribe Dahae
Maladi777 and her "The Heffner Legacy"
iheartdinosx3 and her "Belle Legacy"
Kamio and her "The Guia Tribe"

3.18. The lessons

Little Sihu knew that she is creator heiress and when she'll become young adult she'll change her mother Wenona becoming tribal leader and creator. But Sihu still had to see many summers and winters until that day and to learn many things like the archery, fishing, hunting, she had to be strong and fast like any warrior in her tribe and she really wanted that. The best teachers were her parents and little Sihu loved them both from a bottom of her little heart.

The world seemed so interesting and full of discoveries. Sihu wanted to know and learn everything. Why aunt Nikki is so upset. Sihu knew that her cousins and friends Senia and Inara will have a little sister or brother soon, but does a baby who lives in her aunt's belly make her so upset?

And why Okomi looks so thoughtful? Is he also upset like aunt Nikki?

Sihu would ask them, but mom said her it's rude to interfere in the affairs of other people, if they don't ask themselves for your advice or help. Sihu didn't want to be rude. However, she always could to ask her mother about everything she was curious. Mom always knew all the answers to her questions.
- Mommy, when I'll grow up will I also have children?
- Yes, my little one, - Wenona nodded smiling. - Creator must have children and give a creator heiress to her tribe.
- And what else I'll have to do when I'll be adult?
- To be a tribal creator is a big and responsible work, my little one. You are responsible not only for your children, but also for the people of your tribe, you'll have to be strong and confident person, a brave warrior, who's able to resist the enemy, if they'd occur. But most importantly, my daughter, believe in yourself. If you'll not believe in yourself, others will not believe in you, too. And patience... Patience and endurance. Consider words. Wisdom. You will have to learn a lot, Sihu, until you'll become tribal creator.
- And you? How did you learn to be creator, mom? - a little heiress looked at her mother's eyes.
Wenona smiled softly at her daughter.
- When I and your uncles Tahatan and Kotori were children like you, we also had mom. My mom taught me how to be creator and my mom learned how to be creator from her mom, my grandma Amadahy and grandma learned it from her mom. It comes from generation to generation, Sihu.
- I want to learn everything about it, mom, - Sihu smiled widely.
- You will, my dear, - Wenona stroked her daughter's hair. - We have a lot of time...
Sihu sighed happily and looked dreamly at the sky. One day she'll be strong and wise creator... Just like her mom.

***

Okomi didn't know what to do. Suletu was with a child. How could it happen? If even she'll become young adult after few months it still wasn't right. They broke the tribal laws. "The first lesson - always listen your mind if even your heart says different", - thought Okomi. He gave a deep sigh. His day was ruined although he still had a lot of work in his little garden. "It's too late... We can't change anything, we can only accept the fact that we'll have a baby after few months... And hope that creator Wenona will be merciful to us". 

3.17. Nikki: "I am the night"

I am Nikki North, a daughter of royal scholar Anya North. As my mother lived in queen's palace I and my twin brother Noel were raised by shaman Lakesha who came from western lands. It were happy days what will never return... She taught me love every flower, listen the trees and voices of birds in the forest. Life in the Blessing Moon tribe always reminds me about Lakesha. I've never seen her angry. "You are a little grey cloud, Nikki", - she always said me when I was upset. When I became older Lakesha told me that spirit of the night lives in me and one day I should hear its voice. Now I see that Lakesha was right. I am the night and my brother is bright like a sunny morning. I guess it's why I love him so much. He doesn't know how many things I learned from him watching how he had to defend himself against women in our tribe. Noel was smart and brave boy when I always tried to hide in the shadow or behind Lakesha's back. I'm not coward, but I didn't feel safe when I was a child. Now I have children myself and I swear I'll never leave my daughters as I know how it's hard to live without mother. They are my treasure.
Senia is very active just like her father and she's very wise for her age.

Inara is.... Well, she has a lot of me and sometimes I don't feel good seeing how she treats her sister. She is being mean sometimes.

It's good to see both girls older and to know that I am with child again. Tahatan accepted the news very joyful, he almost jumped in happiness like kid.

It's just me... I know that I am not perfect. Sometimes I want to sew my mouth... and just to be different than I am, but I can't... I fear people. When they want to get closer to me I always step back. I want to defend myself and hide. I know it's bad, but it is what I am. I am loner and I would feel better living with wolves in the forest than being surrounded by people. And honestly sometimes I really want that - to run in the woods, but I'll not do that. I am mother and I am shaman, so I have duties.

Tahatan is special person. He can stand me and my oddities, he wants to have children with me and raise them together. He loves me and always reminds me silently that I am important to him.

Honestly, I've never thought that I will have children with man and we will raise them together... It wasn't easy to me to get used to that fact that men can be so free and confident like here, in the Blessing Moon tribe. And I confess I was amazed when I saw them dancing half naked around the bonfire, talking free to their creator, laughing them all together. Men in my native tribe didn't dare to say any word if they weren't asked. Some women even scolded me if they caught me playing with Noel, but I didn't give up them saying that he is my brother twin, they can't forbid me to be with him! Now I realize I did right. What would I do without Noel now? He was first who noticed the Blessing Moon tribe's camp, he helped me many times...  And Tahatan is a second man after Noel. He believes in me. And when I hurt him he sits and talks to me. He always find the right and kind words. I don't know why he is so patient with me. I wouldn't be...

I am the night. The grey sky before the storm on a hot summer day. Mostly I'm not able to see the light in darkness, but I am lucky that I am surrounded by people who always give me at least a little of that light they have inside them.

3.16. Kids are love

Being together for Nikki and Tahatan wasn't easy. Nikki had difficulties communicating with people, because she liked more solitude than people, so she very often blurted out something that made Tahatan to feel uncomfortable or he was simply resentful and then they didn't talk to each other.

However, Tahatan unlike his brother Kotori, never carried the anger, so here they quarreled and here they made it up again.

Nikki was a closed person, so it's not surprising that she didn't get closer with anyone, but Tahatan was special and they have two wonderful daughters, so Nikki tried to be good, although sometimes mean words slipped away from her mouth themselves. Tahatan didn't  want to give up just because he loved Nikki and their daughters. He was very patient and quiet person and he believed that people can change if you'll give them your love and will show them that their bad traits and habits can't scare you.
- I know that our relationships are quiet complicated, but I thought... - once he said Nikki. - What do you think if we would have one more baby? Kids are love and having more kids could help us to understand each other better and it would be like our common goal to raise them together.
Nikki looked at Tahatan's eyes and smiled.
- If you think it should help us then I can't not agree with you.

And they tried... Nikki thought herself that having children should help her not think about Kotori, too. Even being loner she loved kids and felt happy being mother. "To have more babies will not be bad", - she thought following Tahatan.

***

Nikki was sure she was with a child and it made her happy. She always felt jealous when she saw Kotori and Maat together, but the thoughts about one more baby made Nikki very gentle and she sincerely asked Maat to allow her to feel her baby.

- Can you tell me who lives inside me? - Maat asked Nikki. - I heard shamans can tell the baby gender sometimes.

Nikki smiled and stroked gently Maat's belly.

- You'll have a son, Maat. He'll be a strong warrior and great tribal son.

- Really?

- Yes, my sister, - Nikki nodded. - He'll come to this world very soon... Don't work too much today, my sister.

- Thank you, sister Nikki, - Maat smiled.

Nikki's words became true - Maat felt first contractions in the evening. 

Kotori rushed to Maat and started to massage her back.

- Is it baby, my flower? - he asked feeling how his voice trembles in the excitement.
Maat nodded.

- Take your mate for a walk, Kotori, - Nikki said coming to them. - It will help baby to come sooner.

Kotori looked at Nikki and nodded silently, took Maat by her hand and they went to the forest slowly.

*** 

They walked long time stopping to rest a bit till Maat said:

- Let's go back, Kotori... I think the baby is already ready to come.

- Sure, my red flower... - Kotori picked up her and carried to the tribal camp.

Luckily they've not gone too far as soon as they reached their tent Maat grabbed by her belly and began to breathe deeply.

- Baby ... I'm giving birth, Kotori... - she said moaning.
- Baby! Our baby is coming! - Kotori shouted happily. - Breathe, love, breathe... I am here, I'll help you... - he caressed Maat's back.

After few strong contractions and pushes Maat and Kotori had their baby. A little boy came to this world in the deep night.
- Just look at him! Isn't he a miracle, Kotori? - Maat raised their son feeling the tears of joy in her eyes.
- Yes, my flower, he is a miracle we created together! - Kotori smiled watching his mate and their baby.

- How we will name him, my red flower?
- I would like to name our son according the Blessing Moon tribe traditions. I'd like to name him... Hawk, - Maat looked at Kotori with gentle smile.
- Chatan? - Kotori smiled surprised a bit.
- Yes, Chatan. It sounds very nice, - Maat nodded. - Our son is worth this name, he'll be great like his father.
Kotori was so happy that he even couldn't speak.