Page 61 of Alien's Eternal Mate

Then it hit me, and I understood what transpired.

The topknot, it must be to a chieftain as a crown is to a king. A symbol of their authority, and servitude.

I turned around and he pulled my hair into a topknot. The villagers looked on with what I took to be approval, though their silence was a bit unnerving.

“I never wanted to be chief,” I muttered.

“And that is what makes you ideal for the role. Great men don’t seek power, Gro. Others thrust it upon them, often against their will.”

I sighed as he fixed the ring in place.

“You’ve got the wrong man for the job,” I grumbled.

“That’s what everyone says, including me. Now, turn, and face the people of Starlost Village as their new chieftain.”

FIFTEEN

CARTER

“Enough!”

Pageus’ bellow carried over the din of Masari voices. The announcement of my ascendence to the Chieftainship had ignited a fire in the Starlost tribe. I sat on a stone, covered with trinkets, tokens, and gifts from the tribespeople. It had been over an hour, and the Masari showed no signs of slowing down with their accolades.

“The new chief needs to prepare for his duel against Grhoma Jark.”

Pageus’ eyes dared anyone to refute him. When no voices raised up in opposition, he gave a curt nod before continuing.

“Leave the chief be, and attend to your own affairs. Remember that Jark is not an honorable man, and we may still need to do battle this evening. Keep your spears close and your wits sharp.”

The crowd dispersed, albeit with reluctance. I shot a grateful look over at Pageus.

“Thank you. How long do you think it is until sundown?”

He squinted up at the sky and grunted.

“Two hours, perhaps three. It’s difficult to tell this time of year.”

I nodded, picking up my spear and using it to leverage myself to my feet.

“Have any of our warriors seen him in battle?”

“They have not.” Pageus’ eyes lit up. “But my cousin is a sky trader, and he’s seen Jark spar with some of his warriors. Apparently, Jark favors the Jawcatcher and Drakeclaw.”

I frowned at the revelation.

“Those are hunting weapons not meant for battle.”

“Apparently, Jark modified his gear to hunt something other than small game. You’d best be sharp, Gro. Excuse me…”

His face split in a grin.

“I should say, Chief Gro.”

“Peace Chief Gro,” I corrected him. “And I’m not a warrior, and never claimed to be.”

“If I could offer you some advice, men like Jark don’t get where they are, let alone stay there, by being reckless. His reputation might paint him as an impulsive barbarian, but when the time comes for battle, he will be cagey and careful.”

“I was afraid you would say something like that. What chance do I have, really?”

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