CHAPTER 23: Groog - Then Home
The trek from Lion Camp to Nineteenth Cave-Hilltop Holding was uneventful for the Searchers other than the occasional fall causing cuts and bruises. Kalkee was very pleased no one had died since they had left Ayla's Clan. Azalakesh had guided the Searchers well and it was now time for him to set out for the Ninth Cave and Willomar, his friend.
"Ayla, I will leave you tomorrow and head out to find my friend Willomar. Is there any message or information you would have me give him when I reach the Ninth?"
"Just let him know we are well and tell him I wish to know if he was truly satisfied." Aza had a momentary look of shock on his face which quickly changed to a grin.
"I will tell him of your question and the fact all went well."
"I will also tell him you are traveling to the Clan of the River Neemah and will then return to the Ninth Cave from there."
"Aza, I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your acting as guide on this trek. I have a good memory but the last time I traveled from my Clan to Lion Camp was many, many summers ago. Things change over the summers and I am certain that if you had not been with us, we would have reached Lion Camp much-much later than we did. The travel time you saved us is like a gift from The Mother."
"Zelandonî, it has been my pleasure to be your guide. What you and Barrie have done for the Karren and the searchers will be long remembered. Ayla, I know the Karren and the Searchers feel as I do about what you and your fellow Zelandonii people have done. All of you have been a blessing from the Mother, even your wolf has been a blessing... and that is a statement I never thought I would make when speaking of wolves!"
As planned, Ayla left Hilltop Holding the next day and headed to the Clan of the River Neemah and Groog.
'I have a large quantity of the mold and I also have knowledge of where the sacred root can be found. 'Both of these things will be of importance to Groog's Clan.' The thought pleased Ayla. Shadow hunter Bandoman and two hunters of the Clan would be with her until she reached the Ninth Cave; that was Ayla's starting point and would be her ending point as well.
"Sky, go to First Wolf Cave and stay with Zelandonî Jonokol." Sky knew where his pack leader wanted him to go and he knew the way to his predecessor's cave and trotted the short distance to it. Jonokol, the Zelandonî of the cave, was expecting him.
ooo
"Go tell Mongar that three Others are approaching our Clan. Tell him it appears to be two hunters and a female and all three are on the backs of horses." The first guard continued watching in hope the female rider was the Other called 'Jonayla.'
Stopping by a creek, Ayla placed a woven blanket on a large rock and then put four medium-sized rocks on the blanket so the wind could not blow it away. Ayla commanded the horses to stay; the human scents on the blanket would remind them not to wander far as they had green grass to eat and sparkling creek water to drink. A Clan guard soon greeted the group of three Others but was surprised the female was Mog-ur Ayla and not her daughter.
"Mog-ur, we have long awaited your arrival. Welcome back to our Clan. Follow me and I will take you to Leader Mongar." Ayla nodded an affirmation and the group of three followed the guard. Bandoman and Jaradal were walking side by side and smiled at each other; both men knew exactly what the guard had signed.
"Mog-ur Ayla! I am surprised you are here. Your daughter was here two summers ago and told us of your search for your Clan son. Have you found him? Have you any needs at the moment? I have already told a woman to make some fresh tea. Tell me, how long will you be with us, do you know?"
"Yes, I did find my Clan son and he is well. He is second leader of the Clan of the Cave Bear in the far East and I have no needs Mongar but I would like to be here for three moons if I may, and I wish to know how you and your Clan fare."
"We do well and are pleased to have you with us again. I would now ask of your two hunters." Ayla turned to Jaradal and Bandoman and simply signed 'Men...'
"I am Jaradal... and this is Bandoman. We travel as shadow hunters for Mog-ur Ayla and are pleased to be present within your Clan." Jaradal mouthed the names aloud as he signed.
Mongar was shocked at the perfect signing Jaradal had done. "Mog-ur, have you now taught all the Others a proper language now?"
"No Mongar, still only a few know the language of the Clan. I taught my shadow hunters as we walked the seasons to my Clan home in the East and they lived among my Clan for sixteen moon cycles. They have learned the language very well and know many of the Clan's customs and traditions."
Turning his head and body towards the two men, leader Mongar signed, "Men, I am fully pleased you have done such an honorable thing, it tells me you have intelligence and integrity. I welcome you to my Clan."
Bandoman now showed his ability to fully speak in sign as well. "We are grateful for such and would ask to be with your hunters during whatever time we are here."
"Mageb is our Hunt Leader and I am certain he will be pleased to have you on his hunts. I ask...do you carry the same weapon as Mog-ur Ayla did when she was here? My Hunt Leader has expressed interest in the weapon."
"Yes, we each carry a spearthrower and will be pleased to show Mageb how it is made and how it is used."
Both Jaradal and Bandoman were pleased to be within a Clan again.
Gesturing a guard to his side, Mongar issued a command, "Lead the Others hunters to Mageb and repeat what has been said between us. Then find our Mog-ur and tell him to come my hearth." Being introduced to the two Zelandonii hunters, Hunt Leader Mageb was pleased and suggested both men were welcome to bed down within his hearth during their stay.
"Mog-ur Ayla, I now ask what has brought you to us at this time?"
"Mongar, I have brought a large quantity of the magic mold with me and I wish to give it to Dula, your Medicine Woman. I can also tell her where to find it in abundance and just as important, I have found the sacred memory root in abundance and can tell the location of where it exists as well." Ayla was pleased she could share the information.
"Mog-ur Ayla, we no longer have a need for the sacred root." Mongar was giving Ayla his very first tease ever to an Other, and was speaking truth as he signed.
"You no longer need the Sacred Root!" Ayla signed in surprise. "You will lose Clan memories if you don't have the root. The memories are important and being totally unable to reach the Spirit World means not only do you lose the memories; you lose access to Creb and his guidance and wisdom!"
"Mog-ur, we do not need the root only because we have a large supply of it on hand. Your daughter found it and brought us an extremely large quantity roughly two summers ago." Mongar now did an imitation of the Others smile grimace which caused Ayla to break out in laughter.
Mongar had completed his tease and was obviously very successful in his effort to imitate the Others smile grimace; he too enjoyed the result.
"GROOG!" Ayla signed as her friend entered Mongar's hearth.
"MOG-UR!" Groog signed in reply. "I was unaware you were here; this is a happy day! What brings you to the Clan of the River Neemah? How long will you stay? "Who has come with you? Jonayla told us you were on a search to find your Clan son; did you find him? What abou..."
"... Groog, so many questions so quickly! Let us sit and talk. I too have many questions I would ask of you! We must wait for your Mog-ur to get here then we three can speak in depth."
"Our Mog-ur is already present. I am Mog-ur of our Clan now that Brog has stepped away due to old age. His health and his mind are still good but the burdens of being Mog-ur for so long have worn on him."
"Mongar, would you like to sit and talk with us?" Ayla did not want to offend the man by ignoring his presence.
"You two have much to share with each other and I do not wish to be an intrusion. Please go where you like and see those you wish to see; we can talk more tomorrow."
"We go now." Groog had used the standard statement for ending a conversation and leaving someone. Walking away, Groog asked, "Mog-ur, I would know where you would go and who you would like to see."
"Is Dula treating anyone with serious sickness or injury at this time? If so, I would go to her to assist. If not, I would go to your hearth and talk in comfort."
"We have no sick or injured at the moment and I would be pleased to take you to my hearth. We are only steps away and I have some people I would like to introduce you to."
Entering Groog's hearth, Ayla saw a child looking to be six summers in age. Standing with the child was a full Clan woman. "Mog-ur Ayla, this is my mate, 'Arba,' and my son, Durcan."
"Durcan? You named your son Durcan?"
"Yes, I named our son Durcan. Your son was there along with Jondalar and stood to challenge Brukeval when your group saved me from his renegade band. He had come back to torture me and cause me a bloody death. I liked the name 'Durcan' since it intoned the thought of the legendary 'Durc,' and I wanted to honor your son in this way. I hope you are pleased in the naming."
"Yes, I am very pleased and Durcan, my Durcan, will be full of pride at knowing what you have done. ." Ayla now turned to face Groog's mate.
"Arba, you have a good man in Groog and if little Durcan grows up to be half the man Groog is, you will be honored for being his mother."
"Ayla, I am grateful for what you say and even more so for saving my mate's life. I am truly honored to meet you and ask that you bed with us during your stay."
"It would be my pleasure to bed with you and I will enjoy getting to know you and little Durcan. Let us talk tonight of happy things and of the joys Ursus has given us." Ayla was sincere in what she said and could already tell Groog had mated with a pleasant woman who cared for family and friends. The night went late and went well; waking early in the morning would not happen.
After eating a good-sized morning meal, Ayla sought Dula and would then seek Brog after talking with her Medicine Woman friend. "Dula, I have this pain in my back..."
"Ayla my friend! I was told you were with us again and I knew I would see you soon. Welcome! Now let's talk about that pain in your back. I have a medicinal you can drink. It involves using the slime from earthworms and the green mush from the dead pond. When mixed together with soap root froth and auroch crap it ends the pains almost immediately. It stinks and is hard to swallow, but it can certainly take your pains away."
"Dula, my pains have just now gone away! You are favored by Ursus and now I won't need your new medicinal." Both women now shared a knowing look and came together in a warm embrace.
"Dula, would I be right in saying your new medicinal is Auroch's crap? If not, the death it could cause would certainly end a person's back pains." Both women were enjoying being together again.
"Yes, you would be right Ayla, but what brings you to our Clan at this time?"
"I have brought you a large supply of the magic fungus and can tell you where to find it."
"This is good news Ayla! I did find some of the fungus after you left but am nearly out of it."
"Mongar told me of Jonayla bringing a large quantity of Sacred Memory Root to your Clan. How long will the supply last?"
"Ayla, I think the children of Groog's children will still be using it. I think Jonayla brought the root to us as a gift in gratitude for saving her father's life, but it could have been simply because she knows how much the Clan depends on it for maintaining our society and way of life. Either way, she did a thoughtful thing."
A broad smile came across Ayla's face; Jonayla had taken the time and trouble to gather the root in mass and transport it to Mongar's Clan. "Dula, please tell me of Brog and his health. I am going to see him next and the Medicine Woman in me desires to know of any ailments he may have before I speak with him."
"Mog-ur, Brog is in good health. He does have trouble with his bones causing pains in his hands and hips but beyond that he shows no signs of ill health. The pains are constant and strong and Brog bears the pain with honor. I swear he has not lost a bit of his memory and he speaks of you often."
"This is good to hear. What are you doing to lessen his pains?"
"Mog-ur, I have a skin ointment which dulls a bit of the surface pain but the most effective thing I have is a hemp tea. It kills some of the pain, but I have nothing stronger to give him. If I gave him the sacred root drink it would take him to the Spirit World and his pain would be gone while he was there."
"The pains would still be absent when he returns to us and for some time longer, but I am told visits to the Spirit World can be very dangerous and the trips are not a cure because the pains return."
"Dula, I have the seeds of a stronger hemp weed. The leaves are a darker green and I am told the darker weed is called 'Canab.' The canab weed provides much better pain relief than the lighter hemp weed does."
"The darker leaves are more numerous and the canab weed's flower seeds and buds are much more potent as a pain killer than what you have now. At fall harvesting, the plant's flower buds and leaves can be cut from the plant. Then the buds can be dried and chopped to a coarse powder for tea. The chopped canab leaves work well as a tea for headaches and light pain, while the chopped buds work well on lessening really bad pains."
"When the harvesting is done, a large quantity of seeds will result and should be stored for planting in the following spring. In just a few summers you will have a field full of the stronger Canab and I think it will help greatly with Brog's bone pains and other types of pain. It too isn't a cure but is a much better help."
"Mog-ur, it is always a good thing when you or Jonayla come to us, and for this I am pleased. I am also grateful for our friendship."
"I feel grateful as well Dula. Your fungus medicinal brought my mate back from the edge of the Spirit World and I will always honor you for that."
"Mog-ur, with all this magic fungus you have brought, you have saved the lives of many of our people, even those who are not yet born. This is enough said." Dula wasn't cutting Ayla short, she was simply stating the facts and they were pleasing to express.
ooo
The walk to Mog-ur Brog's hearth was not far and Ayla found the man under the shade of a large tree. He was found lying on a sleeping fur cushioned with straw. To look at Brog you would not see any outward signs of discomfort. Brog simply bore his pains in silence as all Clan men do. Pain was not a manly thing to complain about but was something a male could speak about with a Medicine Woman. If in pain, a man could choose to 'inform' a Medicine Woman of such and not be considered as complaining.
Bumping her foot against Brog's foot woke the man up. Now that he was awake, Ayla signed, "There never seems to be a Mog-ur around when I want or need one."
"Ayla, if you want a Mog-ur, I am no longer such, if you need a Mog-ur, I will listen."
"Once a Mog-ur, always a Mog-ur," humor was evident in Ayla's signing. "Brog, I have spoken with Dula and she has told me of your pains." Ayla knew her statement would draw a protest.
"Can't that Medicine Woman keep her mouth shut?"
"She is not required to be silent when speaking to another Medicine Woman, you know this old man, so quit complaining. Anyway, I just wanted to check on you, my honorable friend."
"I want to let you know I have given Dula the seeds of a more potent pain killer weed, and in late summer the fruit of the weed will be ready for making tea. From what I have experienced and have been told of in its use, you may be nearly free of your bone pains once it is harvested."
"Ayla, I never complain, I only inform, you know this. Apart from that, what you have told me is pleasing to hear. I will wait until late summer in anticipation of having less pain and will do so without complaining as some old men do." Humorous arrogance was in his voice.
"Brog, I have treated children who don't complain as much as you do!"
"Ayla, I don't complain, I only inform." He still had a tone of humor in his signing.
"Yes, of course you do. Please accept my apology for such a blatant error in understanding," Ayla signed this with an embellished tone of sorrow.
Now she spoke aloud in Zelandonii, "And now I have won our banter in the matter."
"Ayla, you know I don't understand your mouthing of Zelandonii words."
"Brog, that is the beauty of it." Ayla signed this as she gave Brog a smile grimace.
"Let us speak of less painful things Ayla, how are your mate and son?" The entire conversation was out of the ordinary in that a female was speaking freely to a man of the Clan, a leader no less, and had done so without asking permission. The fact Ayla was a Medicine Woman, a leader, and a Mog-ur was what afforded her the right to speak.
Having such a very pleasurable time with Brog pleased Ayla. The rest of Ayla's farewells were done later in the evening to lessen delays in leaving at sunrise.
"Groog, my shadow hunters and I will be leave for our Zelandonii home tomorrow. I honor you for becoming Mog-ur and I am pleased for your family. Know I will make Durcan aware of the honor you have given him... May Ursus be with you, your family, and your Clan."
"... And also with you my friend." Groog used the term 'friend' in an effort to acknowledge Ayla's accomplishments in becoming a Mog-ur, a Medicine Woman, and a leader within the Others. She was a Mog-ur just as he was and thus held equality with himself and all other Mog-urs. It was strange and seemed out of the ordinary, but each of these things were part of a unique relationship between the two. Everything had been signed in private.
ooo
Morning came and Ayla signed brief acknowledgments of parting to Mongar, Groog, Dula, and Brog. Walking the short distance from Groog's cave to where the horses, Bandoman, and Jaradal were standing, Ayla asked, "Where did you two bed down the last few days?"
"We stayed with Mageb, the Hunt Leader. He asked we hunt together so he could see our spearthrowers in use. We did as he asked and quickly downed a distant buck. Jaradal and I were starting to drag the deer back to camp when Mageb walked to us and just picked the buck up and carried it all the way back. The strength of a Clansman is incredible."
"... And your thoughts Jaradal?"
"All that Bandoman has already said plus the fact we had no problem at all in our conversations with Mageb and his hunters. Zelandonî, we thank you for teaching us the language of the Clan. When I think back on old times, I am incredulous at how little we knew of the Clan."
"Jaradal, just make other Zelandonii aware of what you have learned and speak to them of what you now know of the Clan." The horses Ayla and her two hunters had been riding came from the stable keeper at Nineteenth Cave; he was indebted to Ayla for her aid in the past and loaning the animals to Ayla was a pleasure. Now heading to the Ninth Cave, Ayla rode past the Nineteenth Cave proper and went to First Wolf Cave to pick up Sky. On Ayla's trek to the Ninth Cave, she was pleased to travel at a constant trot; the time needed to reach the Ninth Cave and home was shortened by a full day.
The borrowed horses would be returned by three volunteers who would each tether a borrowed horse to their own horse in order not to lose them in the wild while on the way to return the three horses to Nineteenth Cave. Runners from the Nineteenth Cave had spread the word of Ayla's return to the Zelandonii and of her trek to the Clan encampment north of the Nineteenth Cave. Two of the runners continued on and rode to the Ninth Cave to make them aware of her impending return.
They were unaware of Azalakesh already traveling to Willomar's hearth. Willomar had already spread the word and upon seeing Ayla approaching her home cave, people were soon lining the pathway leading to the Cave's central hearth. Various people shouted very loudly as Ayla, Bandoman, and Jaradal rode past. "Zelandonî, Zelandonî, welcome home. We are happy for your return and can now have a celebration!" Of course, Jondalar, Durcan, and Ava had returned last summer, and this meant the people already knew the search for Durc had been successful.
ooo
"Jaradal... Bandoman... I am safely with our people now and I am truly grateful for what each of you has done. I have something in mind for both of you but that will come later as right now is not the time. You may go now and do as you wish." Ayla didn't need to repeat herself, both hunters got off their horses and were quickly engaged in speaking with the unmated women who sought them out.
Off to the side, a woman caught Jaradal's eye; the woman was Penree, his former mate. Time had passed, old wounds had healed, and the still present sparkle in her eye made Jaradal want to see her again. Exposed to Clan culture, he had changed over the last four and a half summers and now had recognition of the man he used to be.
Jaradal was well pleased with his new outlook on life, relationships, and how to properly interact with others. "Bandoman, I now wish to leave these women to you as I want to go and speak with Penree." Bandoman knew Jaradal's history with Penree and knowing how much Jaradal had changed, he simply smiled and nodded to his lifelong friend. Bandoman noticed a woman walking away from the small group. She wasn't someone he knew; she must have moved to ninth cave while he was away. He wanted to meet the woman and wondered why she was walking away.
Sky also took leave and trotted off to find Star, Jonayla's pet wolf. The two had not seen each other since the search for Durc began.
Jondalar, Cambarre, Jonayla, and young Marthona were all waiting for Ayla to reach them. Jondalar wanted a family reunion within the privacy of their own hearth instead of in the madness of a crowd. "Family, I am home..."
Just like with Jaradal and Bandoman, no further statement was needed; the family rushed to her. Jondalar was first to reach her and right behind was Jonayla.
Cambarre held young Marthona's hand as he waited his turn to embrace Ayla.
He would reintroduce Marthona to her grandmother. The child was only two years old when Ayla went on her search four years ago. Being six years old Marthona had other ideas and broke free of daddy's hand so she could run to Grammy.
"Marthona! You are so big! Do you know how to count yet?"
"Yes Grammy, I know how to count all the way to twelveteen." Marthona now counted for Grammy.
"That is wonderful Marthona! You look a lot like your mother!"
"Grammy, you look like her too. Will you play with me and Star wolf Grammy?"
"Yes, sweetheart, I guess I do look much like your mother and I would love to play with you, but can you wait for just a moment? Is that okay?"
"Yes, Grammy, and then we can play, but I see Star is playing with a white wolf puppy right now." Momentarily looking at Cambarre and Jonayla, Ayla gave a slight nod and the two nodded a reply. She would greet Cambarre and Jonayla when six-summer Marthona released 'Grammy' sometime later.
Knowing his child, this event was somewhat expected and caused no issues. Now Ayla turned to her mate, "Jondalar, where are Durcan and Ava? Has something happened?"
"Durcan, Ava, Artibon and Rushemar went to Lion Camp so they could travel back to the Zelandonii with you. Their timing of the trip must have been off somehow or you would have encountered them on your way back."
"We took shortcuts so it's understandable that we missed them, we can talk more about that later." Looking at Jondalar as she spoke, Ayla nodded slightly towards little Marthona, a simple nod in return was all Ayla needed to see from her mate.
"Now it is time to play! Marthona, what games do you like to play?"
"I like playing 'Cave,' do you know how to play Cave Grammy?"
"Yes, I do! I like playing Cave and I think I like it just as much as you do! You can be the mommy and I will be your friend, is that okay?"
"No, I will be the mommy and you will be my Grammy."
"Marthona, I like being your Grammy." At this point loud crying began.
Two babies a year and a half old wanted to be fed. Ayla looked up and both Jonayla and Cambarre were beaming as they shook their heads in positive affirmation. "Mother, Cambarre and I would like to introduce you to little Jondalar… and little Creb. Marthona now has two little brothers and they are twins!" At the moment Ayla could do nothing but cry.
ooo
Treece and Donnab had left the Markaii tribe in unwarranted disgrace. They were wrongly accused of theft and could not stand the looks of disdain former followers of the two would give them. The couple had decided to try to find the tribe that Markaii hunters had seen intermittently. Donnab had voiced the suggestion and Treece felt it would be wise to do so.
The two went north, then west, then north, and then east and repeated the pattern many times with no luck in finding any hunters.
A full spring, summer, and fall had passed. Dismayed at not finding any hunters, the two wintered in the same small cave they had come across in the first year of their search. Now a second winter was coming, and the pair were becoming distraught and feared they would never find a tribe. Game was plentiful but the winters were solitary.
It was spring in the third year of searching before they came across a group of Zelandonii hunters; fate had finally blessed them. "Hello, you who are hunters! We would speak with your Hunt Leader if we may." This shout and request to talk was a first for the hunters. Never before did anyone from the Southeast trails show a willingness to speak with them.
"Hello strangers, who are you and where do you come from?"
"We are only two, male and female, and wish to learn of your tribe."
"Step forward as we step forward and we will meet" Treece and Donnab had come across a small hunting party; the party were hunters from Fifth Cave south. Donnab and Treece had traveled close to the southern Zelandonii caves many times but simply failed to run across any hunters. Luck had not been their friend.
"We two have left our tribe because unrighteous things have been done to us. We seek a new tribe to join and ask to speak with your cave leaders." Donnab was hopeful these were a peaceful people and introduced himself and Treece.
"Speaking to our Cave leaders will not be of help in your cause. You must seek First Zelandonî south and speak with her. She can best advise and work with your request. Come, sit with me and tell of your tribe." A full accounting ensued and sounded reasonable.
"Two of my hunters will take you to First Cave south-Lance Rock. This is where you will find First Zelandonî south, as she serves all of our caves from there. It will take a day and a half on horseback to reach her hearth."
"On horseback! What is this of horses? Horses cannot be ridden; they are beasts of the wild and are food when other game is absent." Donnab wasn't being ugly, he was just stating the facts of life as he knew them.
"We ride on the backs of horses and tell them when to go and when to stop. We control were they take us and how fast we ride. Come, I will show you.
Reaching the top of the rise, both Treece and Donnab were shocked to see men on horses. "We cannot ride the backs of your horses as it seems it would be against the will of The Great Earth Mother."
"Donnab, it is the will of The Great Earth Mother that we do ride them. Come, stand on that boulder rock over there and then climb onto my horse and sit in front of me. Do this, and I will show you the wind."
Treece watched as Donnab did as directed. "I will start slow and end with the wind. Hold tightly to the hair on my horse's neck." Doing as told Donnab held on as the horse began to walk, then trot, then run. He held his tightest when the horse was put into a full gallop.
Treece screamed when the horse began to gallop. "Please stop! Donnab will be killed!" she shouted; her shout fell on deaf ears. After a gallop of fifty or so horse lengths, the horse slowed to a trot and then to a walk on the way back.
"This horse is a friend and does what I command. Now slide off and onto the rock you mounted from." The Hunt Leader was pleased Donnab had said a 'thank you' after his ride.
Donnab did as he was told while Treece ran to him. "Donnab, are you hurt, are you needing aid?"
Breathing heavily and his heart pumping rapidly, Donnab spoke loudly, "Treece, that ride was fantastic! We went so fast the wind had to part in our way. You must try it Treece. That is the only way you can feel as I do."
"We are leaders Treece, we cannot judge what we have no knowledge of; try it and then judge."
"Donnab, you will never hear the end of this if I am harmed."
Treece now did as her mate had done and was squealing during the gallop; she was equally pleased. "That was really thrilling! I never even dreamed something like this could happen. Donnab, we need to get horses of our own!" Donnab wasn't surprised Treece had made the statement.
ooo
From where Donnab and Treece were found, First Cave south was a day and a half on horseback just as the Hunt Leader had said. The two hunters and two passengers dismounted, and the group of four asked to see First Zelandonî-south.
"Welcome hunters from Fifth Cave south, who are your friends and where are their horses?"
"Zelandonî, if we may talk over cups of tea, I think you will be very interested in what these two strangers have to say."
"I have time, and a restful tea or two with travel cakes would serve well for all of us. Walk to my hearth with me and we will talk there."
Treece and Donnab now told their story a second time. "This 'Muckee' leader you spoke of; do you know his full intent?"
"Zelandonî, we know not of his full intent, but we do know he is a liar, a cheat, a thief, and a power-hungry man," Treece said. "I fear he and his band along with other tricked hunters may start to do more than just scare away game. I am surprised his band hasn't already been bothering you."
"I say this because I know that was what he was planning." Donnab had overheard a conversation between Muckee and his Gyper Hunt Leader and had told Treece what was spoken; this was how she knew.
"Treece and I were first and second leaders of the Markaii and we feel bad that we were fooled by Muckee and his band. We must now anticipate fighting with the people we once led. I would suggest you place guards strategically in the south to warn of any future approach." Donnab was sincere in what he said.
"Now knowing of Muckee and his band, I will have runners go to each of the five other caves in the South to warn them. If approached in the future, the leader will simply advise them they must come to me with any requests just as you have done."
"If Muckee does come as you say he may someday do, he and his people will be watched closely and if he has a dagger such as you told us of, he will soon be without it forever and sent on his way. The dagger will be proof of what you have told me."
"Donnab, there will be no mention of you or Treece in this. Knowing you were involved in his downfall could cause this Muckee man to seek revenge. At the moment I can only offer you food, shelter, and protection. If what you say is proven to be true, I would offer full membership in the Zelandonii as you have asked."
"We are grateful for your kindness and we pray to The Great Earth Mother that your people are never bothered with the man."
ooo
Exiled from the Markaii tribe, the Gypers continued on. The Gyper band headed to the northwest. Had they traveled directly west they would likely have found Second Cave south. It was mid-fall when Muckee came upon a Zelandonii cave, It was the 4th Cave south. "Muckee, we may have discovered the best find yet. If this tribe does have five more southern caves as that leader of the Fourth Cave says."
"It means more wealth and power than just one cave like the Markaii." Rona was giddy at the thought and was pleased the 4th Cave's leader had sent them to First Cave south and thus First Zelandonî-south.
Having been given directions to First Cave south-Lance Rock, Muckee pulled the same tricks as he had with the Markaii. He befriended First Zelandonî south and thanked her for granting food and shelter to his search party. His thanks came in the form of a jeweled dagger.
Being told of Muckee's arrival, Donnab and Treece collaborated. "Treece, it looks like Muckee must have been found out and since he and his people are now here at First Cave south, his band must have been forced out of the Markaii!" The two had no idea Muckee's band had been exiled shortly after the two left the Markaii.
"Yes Donnab, and that means we can go back to the Markaii without shame. Another good thing in this is that we have found the northern tribe we avoided in the past are not aggressive and are really the opposite. They have a fantastic weapon for hunting and have the ability to control wild animals such as horses."
"... And if they would teach us of these things, we can live much easier and more secure lives," Donnab responded.
ooo
"Muckee, I thank you for this dagger knife, it is a beautiful creation. Tomorrow morning I will send three of our best hunters to take it to a friend of ours in a distant cave as I owe his cave much. He is over twelve months north or east, then north... Well, I will just tell them who it needs to be taken to. They will remember where the tribe is located because one of them used to live there. With my cursed sense of direction and memory, they could be to the west for all I truly know." The trap was now set, and the bait was a jewel encrusted dagger. Muckee would need to steal it back himself and he only had one night to do the task.
Muckee had already sent his mate and his usual two companions on ahead to set up the next campsite for their band. He had stayed behind so he could give the jeweled dagger to First Zelandonî-south in thanks for food and shelter. The dagger knife would only be in her possession overnight. Anticipating what may be coming, four Zelandonii hunters hid in the leader's hearth that night.
"Drop the dagger Muckee. You have been caught stealing from our First Zelandonî and in Zelandonii lands, the penalty for such is being stoned to death." The call came from the dark back of the cave as four hunters stepped into the light. Muckee was just inside the entry and dropped the dagger; he was frozen in place.
Trivodan, the cave's Hunt Leader, simply stated, "You can run Muckee, but you won't likely get away. You and your people will be sought, and justice will surely come." Now Muckee bolted and ran to get away. The lie about death by stoning did its job.
Normally, lies are not part of Zelandonii dealings, but when considering the wellbeing of the Zelandonii people, such is overlooked to the degree no one is harmed by the lie. The remaining Zelandonii caves in the North would also be made aware of Muckee and his actions, even though his future presence in the region was now very doubtful.
Justice came very quickly for Muckee. Upon returning to his Gyper band, he was cast out of the band of thieves. A woman ran to him as he was walking away and she walked away with him. Muckee had messed up for the last time. He had his belt knife and a single throwing spear as weapons; it was likely some pack of wolves would soon be fed. Scar now declared himself to be the new First leader.
Being made aware of the attempted theft, Treece spoke for herself and Donnab. "Zelandonî, we are grateful for what you have done. Donnab and I will travel back to the Markaii and will tell them of the Zelandonii people. We respectfully ask you to consider the Markaii tribe as your friends and we will suggest the Markaii reconsider our lives as an insular people."
"An offer of membership in your tribe is what Donnab and I had initially sought, and we viewed such membership as a precious gift. That being said, Donnab and I cannot accept an offer to become Zelandonii because we now believe we can return to our own tribe as Muckee's control of our tribe has ended. Truthfully, I want to know what lies or misdeeds caused him to be thrown from power. He would not have left the Markaii voluntarily, he is far too greedy for that."
The Gypers had headed due northwest after leaving the Markaii Tribe and wandered for a full summer before being given directions to First cave south-Lance Rock. "Treece, everything you and Donnab have told me has come about. When you leave us, take the dagger with you as the Zelandonii have no need of it." First Zelandonî was being charitable.
Donnab now spoke, "Zelandonî, the dagger is something we do not wish to own again. It wasn't the dagger that caused our trouble, it was Muckee and his band. I suggest your Spirit Leader take it and perhaps hold it as a tribal symbol of the virtue found within truth."
"It shall be as you wish for the dagger Donnab, but I would ask you and Treece to reconsider my offer. You could be members of both the Zelandonii and the Markaii and bring about a new beginning for your people."
Treece looked at Donnab and he nodded his head. Treece spoke for the two."With respect Zelandonî, we accept your offer of membership in the Zelandonii." First Zelandonî-south did not correct Donnab when he said, 'I suggest your Spirit Leader take it.' Apparently Treece and Donnab had not yet been told what being First Zelandonî meant.
ooo
In the North, the twenty-seven remaining Searchers had reached Hilltop Holding and were now living as members of the Zelandonii. All of them had toured the other six northern caves. Eight of the twenty-seven decided to merge into the Twentieth Cave which was originally the Chimu 'First Place.' Two couples decided to live at the Nineteenth Cave-Hilltop Holding.
The rest scattered among the group of the four remaining northerly caves they had been shown. The summers to come would blend and scatter the people even more. Now being Zelandonii, irony was again present; the ex-Searchers had no idea their original Markaii homeland was just a six-day ride nearly due-south of Nineteenth Cave-Hilltop Holding, and they wouldn't find out until the upcoming Summer Meeting.
ooo
Ayla's prediction about last names quickly proved to be correct. When the summer meeting came about, the names Spears, Knapper, Cook, Butcher, Waters, Baker, Skinner, Fisher, Leeds, Woods, Smith and other names were quickly adopted as Ava's idea spread throughout the Zelandonii like wildfire.
Rushemar, Durcan, and Ava returned to the Ninth Cave without Artibon. He had found a future mate in Barrie and was not about to leave her. Barrie thought and felt the same. The two had decided they would mate when Barrie reached fifteen. This would happen in mid-May of the following summer. Rushemar would head back as well. Like Artibon, he had met someone also.
That someone was Michel. "I will head back to Lion Camp and ask Michel if she would mate with me.' The two had met and became close.
ooo
The reunion of Ava and Durcan with Ayla and Jondalar was wonderful. They had arrived at the summer meeting in July. Ava and Durcan were living at the 9th cave and were pleased to be there.
Jaradal had other ideas; he still held memories of his time with Penree, his ex-mate. Penree had big doubts about Jaradal but in conversation with him shortly after he arrived at the Ninth Cave, she could see he was not the same man she had mated years ago. He was now likable, maybe even lovable.
Daylight was coming to an end and Ayla spoke with Jondalar when she was finally alone with him.
"Jondalar, before being elected to the position of First Zelandonî I once said, 'It will be a fearsome responsibility being First Zelandonî in the days to come. I am not eager to take that task to my bosom, not unless I believe with all my heart that it must be me.' I have served The Mother and now intend to fully concede the position of First Zelandonî. The title will go to my friend at First Cave-south and since the next summer meeting is to be held there, all her people can watch her accept the title."
"If you are no longer our First Zelandonî, what will you be?"
"Jondalar, the question is not 'what' will I be, the question is 'where' will I be. I will be with my family. The Zelandonii are stronger and healthier than they have ever been and the leadership of First Zelandonî-south during the extended time I was gone is truly responsible for it." Two more moon cycles passed, and the Summer Meeting was over. Jondalar took Ayla's hand as they walked alongside the two horses Cambarre had given to Ayla and himself. Bandoman and Jaradal had also received new horses.
ooo
"Jondalar, I am excited about the next Summer Meeting. I hate having missed some of them." Jondalar stopped walking and turned to face Ayla and spoke from his heart.
"Ayla, you missed no Summer Meetings as you were within the hearts of the Zelandonii people at every meeting. There is no measure of your positive influence on the Zelandonii and even people in other lands. I could speak of you forever and am grateful beyond measure that you are my mate; Ayla, I will always love you."
"Jondalar, you have given me family and have supported me in all I have done. Without you, I would still be in my valley cave and marking my days there. I thank you for bringing me to the Zelandonii and giving me a life with meaning and for this, I can do nothing less than love you as well." Both Jondalar and Ayla were misty-eyed as they shared the closeness of holding each other.
"Ayla, we have shared our lives with each other, and it has been joyful. Just so, we have done many things together over the summers and our children are grown. Now it is time to back away and let their generation build the future. We are aging, we are together, and now is our time to play." The two mounted their horses to head out for the pond.
Ayla took off without warning and shouted, "RACE YAH JONDALAR!"
THE END
Almost all things are as they should be...
But that's another story yet to be told... by a different EC fan.
ADDENDUM
NOTE Names within (brackets) are assumed after Durcan and Ava mate and became the first couple within the Zelandonii to assume a last name. Only 'Others' took second names and not all people assumed a second name. Many of those in Lion Camp and the original Markaii tribe as well became aware of having second names and other tribes quickly followed the lead of the Zelandonii tribe.
Characters, Tribes, and Caves are in alphabetical order.
This list includes some characters in The Sacred Mountain.
Adamo Young friend of Durc. His right hand was injured in a rockslide. Durc creates tools to help Adamo eat without making a mess of himself.
A-laa Young daughter of Durc and Ura and sister to Reebrun.
Andem (Skills) Son of Tahma and Sanree. Brother to Kristem. He becomes a law enforcer and guard. He is stoic and is respected by his peers. Mated to Jennra, he has two sons, Jacobi and Caleeb.
Aproj (Pronounced 'Ah-frah-ghe') Son of Erba and Joh-nee. He was Only one summer in age when Erba returned to confront Jorpa at his Clan of True Spirits. 'Aproj' is 'Jorpa' spelled backwards and the name was given to her son by Erba as an insult to Jorpa.
Arba Mated with Groog after the Chimudonii were defeated. She is full Clan and mother of baby boy. The child was named 'Durcan.'
Artibon (Trader) Friend of Durcan. Brother to Folrian. He gets involved with Barrie and the two wait to become mated. They make their hearth at Lion Camp.
Arva Mated to Wycam of the Markaii. They are parents of Rayma, a seven-summer girl who saw Rutta steal a tunic.
Ava Mates with Durcan (Knapp). She is older sister to Barrie. Her parents were of the Karren tribe. She was raised in the Clan from age twelve to seventeen. Now seventeen, she is tall and slender with red hair and greenish eyes.
Ayla (Knapp) Mated to Jondalar. Her first child was Durc via repeated unwanted joining's with Broud. Her second child was Jonayla, and her last child was Durcan. Jondalar is the father of Jonayla and Durcan.
Azalakesh A constant traveler, he acts as a guide throughout the land and shortens Ayla's trek to Lion Camp and to Ninth Cave. A member of the Karren Tribe by mating, he is a leader but is seldom around. He visits on occasion and is still accepted as a leader within in the tribe.
Bandoman Travels with Ayla on search for Durc. He has a desire to serve First Zelandonî to a greater degree than he was able to do in the search for Brukeval and Madroman, (the Chimudonii raiders Ayla defeated in the past). He has not yet met a woman that caused him intrigue.
Barrie Younger sister to Ava. She is An Other from the Karren tribe but raised Clan from age seven. Her sister, Ava, is taken away in a barter between Durcan and Kregg. Ayla later barters with Kregg for Barrie's release. She meets Artibon, one of Durcan's friends, and the two are mutually attracted.
Becca Markaii Tribe Medicine Woman, she was not one of the self-outcasts.
Blackie A male wolf Durcan adopted and trained and is his protector and friend.
Brac Son of Broud and Oga. He honors Durc, the mixed blood boy. Brac becomes First Leader of Clan of the Cave Bear at twelve years old. Much later he finds love with Marka, Uba's trainee.
Brog Ex-Mog-ur of the Clan of the River Neemah, a Clan northwest of 19th Cave-Hilltop Holding.
Broud Oldest son of Brun, he became Leader of The Clan of the Cave Bear when his father, Brun, stepped down. Broud tormented Ayla in her youth and cares only for himself. Voted out of leadership, he abandons his family and his Clan. Durc had Broud's blood and Ayla's blood in his veins but was unaware of Broud being his father. It was a personal matter Ayla would not speak of.
Brun Well liked ex-leader of The Clan of the Cave Bear before his eldest son, Broud, became leader.
Caleeb Leader of the Caleeb Tribe. He has an outgoing personality and is younger brother to Jacobi. Andem and Jennra are his parents.
Cambarre Mated to Jonayla. He is an apprentice knapper to Jondalar. The couple have Marthona a female child, 'Marthona.'
Cemper Wisdom Leader of the Markaii. He is a blind wise man and oldest man in the Markaii.
Charla Widowed Mamutoi woman originally from Lion Camp. She is the mother of Alder and Maple. She moved to 9th Cave and mates with Roon.
Claremonde A Medicine Woman from the Clan of True Spirits. After leader Jorpa beat Erba, for not taking 'the position' it was Claremonde who treated her. She assisted in forming The Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples and meted out wisdom as well as medicinals. She has little respect for unkind men and without her, the Tribal Clan would likely fail.
Clev Mog-ur at the Clan of True Spirits.
Colan Aged hunter and fire starter for the Karren Tribe.
Creb Revered Mog-ur of Mog-urs of all Clan caves. He Adopted Ayla and took her on Spirit Journeys and passed some twenty summers ago. He never mated and was a legendary Mog-ur within all Clans.
Dack First Hunt Leader for the Gypers and is mated to Irena.
Darvon He was Hunt Leader for the Karren tribe but was attacked and killed by boars. Traygar was elected the new Hunt Leader.
Dema Friend of Treece and Donnab. Mated to Rogg. The two couples were close friends and were present when Muckee gave the jeweled dagger to Donnab.
Donah Elder Sister to Neece, and younger sister to Jana as well as having three brothers. Jana stayed with the Karren but Donah mated young and moved somewhere to the southeast.
Donnab (Miller) Second Leader of the Markaii before Muckee's gypers. He was a miller of grains by trade. When he and his mate, Treece, accepted membership in the Zelandonii, it amounted to dual citizenship; Zelandonii and Markaii.
Dula Medicine Woman at The Clan of River Neemah. She saved Jondalar's life with a magic fungus she had found. Mongar is the cave's leader. Her Clan Cave is north by northeast of where 19th Cave-Hilltop Holding is located.
Durc Mated to Ura, by choice (and also pre-arranged when babies). Durc and Ura are both of mixed blood and have a son 'Reebrun,' and a daughter, 'A-laa.' His totem is the Cave Lion.
Durcan (Knapp) Son of Jondalar and Ayla. Mates with Ava of the Karren Tribe. She is an Other raised in the Clan from age twelve to seventeen.
Elmar and Vernah Deceased parents of Jana, Donah, Kurtem, Tahma, Mook, and Neece. Over a period of twenty-one summers their family grew to be the largest in the Karren tribe.
Erba Clan female under a Death Curse. She finds Joh-nee (Newman) delirious from a red spot spider bite. She becomes Common Mate of Joh-nee and the two form and lead The Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples.
Etham An Other, he is friend of Durc and the most reliable and intelligent boy Durc knew. His parents were Kevant and Kristem.
First Zelandonî-south Living at fifth Cave South she assisted Ayla in serving the Zelandonii. when Ayla was on her search for Durc, her first born son, she led the Zelandonii in whole.
Folrian Artibon's sister. She is a wild and willing young woman and seeks only her next man.
Fonnte Karren Tribe wood crafter along with Ninolin. The two men made spearthrowers, darts and spearthrower spears for the Karren hunters.
Ganry (Server) Hunt Leader of the Markaii group of self-outcasts. Ganry was originally second Hunt Leader of the Markaii. He and the rest of the outcasts renamed themselves 'The Searchers.' His group was invited to winter with Durc's Clan and did so during two winters.
Garsh Mog-ur of the Clan of the High Hillside.
Goov Respected Mog-ur of The Clan of The Cave Bear. Broud commanded him to put a Death Curse on Ayla when she was sixteen.
Groog A mixed blood Clan man mated with Arba, a full Clan woman, after the Chimudonii were defeated. His life was saved by Ayla and Jondalar while he was in training to become his Clan's Mog-ur. Later Groog saved Jondalar's life by bringing his Clan's medicine woman to Ayla.
Hallie Medicine Woman of the Clan of the High Hillside. Strong willed at birth, the trait carries through as a responsible adult. She has two apprentices, Barrie, and Palma.
Irena Mated to Dack, the First Hunt Leader of the Gyper Band.
Jacobi Hunt Leader of the Caleeb tribe. Reserved in his manner, he is older brother to Caleeb. Andem and Jennra are his parents.
Jana (Zelnar) Spirit Leader of the Karren Tribe and sister to Donah, Kertem, Tahma, Mook, and Necee.
Jaradal His ex-mate is Penree. The mating ended after eight months; she found Jaradal had personality problems and was a hard man to live with. He travels with Ayla in her search for Durc.
Jennra (Skills) Mated to Andem. She has special skills with children. She is the mother of two sons, Jacobi and Caleeb. She is cheerful and accepting of others.
Joharran Leader of Ninth Cave
Joh-nee (Newman) A deaf and mute Zelandonii man ignored by females. After abandoning his home cave, (Second Cave-Elder Hearth), he heads east, gets bitten by red spot spider and eventually mates with Erba, a Clan female from the Clan of True Spirits. She had been given a Death Curse upon Leader Jorpa's demand.
Jonacas Hunt Leader of the Clan of The Cave Bear. He is a strong man who mated with Lindra, an equally strong willed and kind person.
Jonayla Mated to Cambarre, she is the mother of baby Marthona and is the daughter of Ayla and Jondalar and is sister to Durcan. Marthona is six summers when Ayla returns to the Zelandonii.
Jondalar Mated to Ayla. He is father to Jonayla and Durcan. He is an honest and fair man well respected among his peers. Ninth Cave is his home cave.
Jorpa Leader of The Clan of True Spirits. He is highly angered by Erba's disdain, insults and her repeated refusal to take 'the position.' He commands Mog-ur Goov to give her a Death Curse.
Kalkee Leader of the Markaii tribe self-outcasts, AKA 'The Searchers,' 28 people in total. He refuses to war against nonaggressive caves of other tribes in his area, (Zelandonii caves).
Kertem (Skills) Well respected Zelandonii elder of Fifth Cave south. He was unable to attend meetings due to his advanced age. Much older than his brother, Tahma, he is frequently sought out for an old man's wisdom. Kurtem assumed 'Skills' as his last name because he agreed with Tahma's wisdom and regretted he had not thought of choosing the name before Tahma did.
Kevant First Leader of Lion Camp after the prior leader's death. Mated to Kristem, he is of the Yorka Tribe. The two have one son, Etham. The boy is intelligent like his father and mother and is very reserved as is his father.
Kimadar Apprentice and Acolyte to Jonokol the Zelandonî of First Wolf Cave.
Kregg Leader of the Clan of the High Hillside. He was happy to see Ava leave his Clan and was pleased with his barter with Durcan as it purged Ava from his Cave. He later bartered Barrie away to Ayla.
Kristem Second leader of Lion Camp after the prior leader's passing. She mates with Kevant, a very intelligent man from the Yorka tribe. Kevant becomes a leader. The two have one son, Etham. The boy acts and speaks more like a fully-grown man than a child and is intelligent like his father and mother.
Lindra A strong willed but kind woman of the Clan of the Cave Bear. Mated to Clan Hunt Leader Jonacas, she suffers head injuries which affect her greatly, yet she refuses to yield to her new normal and is determined to rise above the injuries.
Mageb Hunt Leader of the Clan of the River Neemah, north of the Zelandonii.
Mairee (Waters) Woman of the Karren Tribe having a breach birth. Her life was saved by Barrie and names her little girl after Barrie.
Manvelar Zelandonii leader of Third Cave-Two Rivers.
Mara Markaii mother of seven-summer Nickee. Her daughter, Rayma and her friend Nickee saw Rutta planting a stolen tunic in Treece's hearth.
Marka Clan cook and medicine woman. Uba's trainee of eight summers. She mates with Brac.
Marshee Spirit Leader from Clan of the Big River, a mixed-blood female that some in her own Clan would not accept. She joins the Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples.
Michel Develops an interest in Rushemar while he and Artibon were at her Lion Camp.
Melodene (Trader) Widowed mate of a Chimudonii raider. She manages to escape the band of raiders and is taken in by Willomar (Trader). The two become common mates and have one child, 'Shankar.'
Mongar Leader of the Clan of the River Neemah, northeast of 19th Cave. He is mated to Shura, a very quiet and reserved woman. He is well respected by his Clan and also respected by Ayla and Others in the North.
Mongore Six summer son of the leaders of Clan of the River Neemah, Mongar and Shura.
Mook A man of the Karren tribe, Mook is intelligent and his abilities are to be admired.
Muckee Leader of a band of gypers bothering the Zelandonii and other tribes. He is not mated.
Necee Sister to Jana, Kertem, Tahma, etc. She had two different mates over the years and left both of them because they proved to care for barma more than they cared for her. A third man was good enough to her, but the relationship fell short.
Nickee Seven summer Markaii playmate of Rayma. The two girls saw Rutta, steal a tunic and hide it in the leader's hearth.
Ninolin Karren Tribe wood crafter along with 'Fonnte.'
Normah She is Spirit Leader of the Markaii, before, during, and after Scar.
Oda Mother of Ura, Durc's mate. She lives at The Clan of Many Waters.
Oga Mated to Broud. Clan mother of Brac and lives at The Clan of the Cave Bear.
Ovar Wisdom Leader of Muckee's band of Gypers. He is not truly a Wisdom leader; Muckee just felt it sounds good to have one and Ovar was the oldest man in his Gyper band.
Palma Medicine Woman helper for Hallie at the Clan of the High Hillside. Eight summers older than Barrie but two summers behind her in training.
Patteen (Willing) tried to ensnare Roon but was rebuffed. She chose her second name in an effort to help encourage potential mates.
Penree Briefly mated to Jaradal well before he leaves Ninth Cave to search for Durc along with Ayla, Jondalar, Durcan and Bandoman. She lives at 14th Cave-Little Valley but went to Ninth Cave for Ayla's return.
Ralev (Tales) Hunt Leader of Lion Camp and son of Ranec and Tricie, (Per author Jean Auel).
Rayma (Marks) Seven summer Markaii playmate of Nickee. Backs up Nickee's story of who stole the missing tunic. Daughter of Wycam and Arva (Marks).
Reebrun Young Son of Durc and Ura. Brother to younger sister A-laa.
Rona Mated to Scar she serviced his needs and colluded in his activities.
Ronnam Leader of The Clan of Many Waters. He allowed Ura to live in spite of being of her being of mixed blood.
Ronnde Defacto leader of the Karren Tribe.
Rogg Friend of Treece and Donnab. Mated to Dema. The two couples were close friends.
Roon (Harvan) A thirty-one summer man of The Harvan Tribe. He is looking for a new people to join with. Wrongly accused of being a thief, he was in mourning of his mate's death from disease. Mates with twenty-nine summer Charla, a widow with two children.
Rushemar Friend of Artibon and Durcan. He and Artibon rode to warn Ayla of snake pits. Finding Michel living at Lion Camp he wants to stay to be near her.
Rutta A gyper woman of twenty-one summers in age. Muckee ordered her to steal a tunic and hide it in Treece's bedding.
Sanree Spirit Leader for the 6th Cave south. Mated to Tahma. Driven to learn and has two grown children, Kristem and Andem Both children were intelligent and opinionated.
Scar Gyper leader who wormed his way into leadership of the Markaii tribe. Mated to Rona. He is a liar, cheat and a conniver. He uses his band of 28 Gypers to trick and take over the Markaii tribe. Muckee was the gyper's true leader.
Sky A female wolf Ayla adopted and trained and is Ayla's protector and friend.
Solaban A friend and advisor to Joharran of the Ninth Cave.
Sonja A young Clan woman and Uba's helper and trainee after Marka was declared to be a Medicine Woman.
Tahma (Skills) Born in the Karren Tribe, Son of Elmar and Vernah, older brother of, Mook, and Necee. Younger brother of Kurtem, Donah, and Jana. He teases just to get others to smile. As the Karren dwindled, the family scattered over the summers and he mated Sanree, Zelandonî of the 6th Cave south. This was now his home.
Torkos Second knapper at The Clan of the Cave Bear. Vinsen is first knapper.
Traygar Karren Tribe's Hunt Leader when Ayla took Barrie to the Karren Tribe.
Treece (Mills) She is first leader of the Markaii Tribe, and mated to Donnab, second leader prior to the Gypers. She has found a good mate in Donnab; he is intelligent, kind, and true.
Uba Hearth sister to Ayla during Brun and Broud's leadership at Clan of the Cave Bear. Uba is First Medicine Woman as was her mother, 'Iza.'
Ura Mixed spirit mate of Durc. Promised to him when she was still a baby. Her mother is Oda, a woman from the Clan of Many Waters. Ura met Durc at a Summer Gathering.
Ursus 'Ursus, The Great Cave Bear' was the name signed by the Clan when referring to the Great Spirit, while 'The Great Earth Mother' was the name spoken by the Others; one creator but known by more than one name. Ursus is both male and female.
Vinsen First knapper for The Clan of the Cave Bear. Torkos is second knapper.
Vorn Markaii Hunt Leader along with Dack before, during, and after Muckee's takeover. He becomes loyal to Scar until Scar's band are exposed as being Gypers.
Willomar (Trader) Takes in Melodene of the Chimu when she escapes the Chimudonii raiders. They are common mates and have one male child, 'Shankar.'
Wycam Father of Rayma, a girl who saw Rutta steal a tunic. Mated to Arva of the Markaii.
Zugg Old Clan hunter who was master of the sling and tried to teach Broud. He unknowingly taught the basics of the sling to Ayla when she was still a youth within the Clan.
OTHERS TRIBES
Caleeb Tribe Leader is Caleeb. Hunt leader is Jacobi. The tribe of nineteen is located seven months east of the Zelandonii. Jacobi is Hunt Leader. No Spirit Leader, or medicine woman is named.
Gypers Any band of nomads with no desire for a permanent home. Lies, deception and deceit are the pattern for their lives. Manipulating people to gain advantage was their goal and theft of valuables through that manipulation was prime.
Karren Tribe Located in Clan lands. Volunteer leader is Ronnde. Spirit Leader is Jana. Hunt Leader was Darvon. The new Hunt Leader is Traygar. A failing tribe of Others who are seeking to merge with another tribe after their Medicine Woman passes.
Lion camp A Mamutoi camp located four months east of Hilltop Holding. Kevant and Kristem are first and second leaders. Ralev is Hunt Leader. Ayla and Jondalar briefly lived at Lion Camp well prior to Kristem and Kevant. Lion Camp had 52 members but are currently only 31 in number. They had lost their Medicine woman to sickness. The tribe is needing more skilled members.
Markaii Tribe (Without Scars people) 80 members. First Leader is Treece. Her mate, Donnab, is second leader. The Hunt Leader is Vorn, Medicine Woman is Becca, Spirit Leader is Normah. The Wisdom Leader is Cemper; he is a blind wise man and the oldest man in the Markaii tribe.
Markaii Tribe (With Scars 28 people) 108 members. Dack is the Gyper Hunt Leader. Vorn, (of the Markaii), becomes Scar's second Hunt Leader. Medicine Woman is Becca, Spirit Leader is Normah, and Cemper are Wisdom Leaders. Muckee is the true leader of the gyper band.
Markaii Tribe Self-Outcasts (The Searchers) 26 members. Leader is Kalkee, Ganry is Hunt Leader. This group of voluntary outcasts needs food and a medicine woman, and thus wants to join another tribe. Durc offers them winter shelter. Both Lion Camp and the Zelandonii offer them a tribe to merge with.
Ninth Cave of the Zelandonii Leader is Joharran, Hunt Leader is Jonacas. Ayla is First Medicine Woman and is also First Zelandonî.
Twentieth Cave-Finders Holding (Formerly the Chimu Second Place) northwest of 19th Cave-Hilltop Holding. Led by Camma, the Chimu became Zelandonii after the defeat of a warring splinter tribe calling themselves 'The Chimudonii.'
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The Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples A group having both Others, mixed bloods, and Clan living together. Erba and Joh-nee take charge of fellow exiles caused by a 'Cleansing' within The Clan of True Spirits. The two create 'The Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples.' Their Medicine Woman is Claremonde, the Spirit leader is Marshee, a mixed-blood female from the Clan of the Big River. The Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples is both a Clan and a Tribe.
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CLAN CAVES
Clan of Clear Waters This was where Durc and Ura met while at a Summer Gathering.
Clan of Many Waters This was Ura's Clan growing up and before mating Durc. Leader is Ronnam.
Clan of the Big River This was home for Torkos and his son, Adamo. Durc had created the spoon and fork to help young Adamo feed himself without being messy.
Clan of the Cave Bear This was Ayla's Clan from age five to the age of sixteen. The Mog-ur is Goov. The New leader is Brac, Broud's oldest son. As an adult, Durc is second leader of his Clan. The Hunt Leader is Jonacas. Uba is Medicine Woman and has Marka as a trainee. Vinsen is the Clan's first knapper.
Clan of the Cave Lion AKA Clan of the River Neemah. North by northeast of Hilltop holding. This is the only clan within the lands of the Zelandonii.
Clan of the High Hillside Leader is Kregg and the Mog-ur is Garsh. The Medicine woman is Hallie while Palma is a four-summer trainee. This Clan took in Ava and Barrie after their parents were killed when a cliff they were standing on broke away. Kregg barters with Durcan and gives Ava to him after Durcan fulfills his end of the barter agreement. Ayla bartered for Barrie one summer later.
Clan of the River Neemah AKA Clan of the Cave Lion. Mongar is the leader and is mated to Shura. They have one son, Mongore. Mog-ur Brog has retired, now Groog is Mog-ur. Mageb is the Hunt Leader and Dula is the Medicine Woman. This Clan is located north by northeast of the Zelandonii 19th Cave - Hilltop Holding.
Clan of The River Valley This was where Durc had stayed one winter to assist in hunting. During his absence from his own tribe, Broud ordered Hunt Leader Jonacas to return to the Clan's old hunting methods.
Clan of True Spirits Leader is Jorpa. He placed a Death Curse on Erba. She, her spirit mate, and spirit child, haunt Jorpa's Clan. He does a 'Cleansing' of his cave to eliminate all those of mixed spirits and those who could see the female spirit. This Clan's Mog-ur is Clev. In effect, the cleansing started the Tribal Clan of Mixed Peoples.