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"Yes, my brother, I am."
"Then may the Creator be with you."
"I have named you as the next chief if I die." Black Wolf told him.
"Me?" Bear Paw was shocked.
"Yes, I trust you no matter what. To keep the peace and take care of our people. You are a great warrior and a great hunter, and you think much like me. I could only name you, as my successor."
"But your brother… "
"Is too young yet."
"It is your wish?"'
"Yes," Black Wolf smiled, "But I do not intend to die."
"Of course you won't."
***
Sasha had prayed to the Creator herself that this arrogant chief would lose the battle and thus it would be settled for her to marry Big Knife. His outlandish offer of fifteen horses amazed some of her tribesmen. How could he own so many horses? And so carelessly give them away.
Naomie, her friend came to her tepee. She was a beautiful young maiden, with soft eyes, and well-endowed body. Most of the tribe's women envied her. But Sasha was not jealous, for she thought clearly that Naomie was not the brightest of women, and Sasha had defended her as others used this knowledge to offend Naomie. Sasha was weaving a basket. Naomie joined her, sitting across from her so she could look into her eyes. "You must be very proud that a Shoshone would offer so much and challenge Big Knife."
"He is arrogant, and the Creator will not allow this."
"I do not understand this word, arrogant?"
"It means he thinks much of himself." Sasha said with impatience.
"Oh. But fifteen horses for one woman, it is a great compliment. And I'm told he's a chief of his tribe."
"He is the enemy. Why would my father allow a challenge with him?"
"Perhaps to prove how much stronger we are than they?" Naomie offered.
Sasha twisted about to look at her friend, "I suppose that could be. But I love Big Knife, and although I find this man arrogant, I do not wish his death for such a ridiculous challenge. And surely Big Knife will maim or kill him."
"Are you so sure Big Knife would win?" Naomie asked, her brow lifted in question.
"Well, he's not as tall as Big Knife. But he is built well, but I think Big Knife can handle him easily enough."
"What did Big Knife say when you told him of it?"
"My father informed him. He was shocked and thought I must have flirted with this… man."
"Did you?" Naomie let a smile linger on her lips.
"No, why would I, I love Big Knife."
"It would seem he is quite determined to have you."
"Yes, but I can't help but wonder why!" Sasha shook her head with disgust. "I treated him for a battle wound, and he told me then he would ask for my hand, I thought him delirious." Sasha explained.
"Well," Naomie sighed, "He is here, and he has brought the horses with him, and if he wins, I'm afraid you will have to go with him." Naomie smiled. She got up and peaked out of the tepee. "He is very handsome too."
The way Naomie said that had Sasha rethinking the man. What if he won? How could she accept it?
