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The Shaman's Calling
The Shaman's Calling
The Shaman's Calling
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The Shaman's Calling

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*2014 Global eBook Awards Bronze Winner: Best Young Adult Fiction*

Teen adventure with a Native American depth. Buffy, Moon and Kooie are the offspring of a Souix medicine man, who has taught Moon and Buffy much of his craft. When a new girl, Gwen, arrives at school, actually moving in across the road from them, Buffy can’t wait to help the scarred, difficult and moody teen. Teaching her to ride a horse, and how to enter a shaman’s trance, to journey to the Great Spirit’s Realm proves much easier than getting her to help and love another girl, a mean one who bullies Gwen and is as crippled inside as Gwen!

Getting stuck in the Dark realm, becoming jealous of Gwen when she becomes Moon’s girlfriend, are only a few of the problems Buffy experiences for sticking her nose in Gwen’s affairs. Discovering that Gwen can change from in the Spirit Realm, into a wolf, something no normal shaman can do, mystifies Moon and Buffy. They soon learn that Gwen harbors many secrets, which the Great Spirit expects them to figure out the hard way! Even Gwen is unaware of her past lives and her place in Native legend! After all, how many teens do you know that were made to be a wolf after being a wickedly bad medicine man in a long past life, like Gwen was?!

Deep and exciting teen adventure for teen’s from thirteen to ninety two!

LanguageEnglish
PublisherJack Bessie
Release dateJan 1, 2014
ISBN9781940592039
The Shaman's Calling
Author

Jack Bessie

Jack Bessie is a child of the corn belt, who grew up shy and rather isolated, chasing critters and working on the neighbor’s farm. An avid reader from an early age, he was obsessed with learning, especially science. He hated English, which is a superb irony, considering how many millions of words of prose he has written in his later life; it would appear that God does indeed have a fine sense of humor or at least a fondness for satire and irony!Jack’s college experience was fanatical and obsessive, involving ridiculously intense bouts of reading and self motivated study, interspersed with much drinking and the chasing of women. He devoted a large portion of his study to psychology and communications, dropping out without a degree, but with an astoundingly wide and deep education. He also accumulated a pregnant wife along the way. The chasing of women was productive at least!Jack’s work history is as interesting as his college journey. He’s been a hospital orderly, janitor, research assis-tant, draftsman, cook, plumber, electrician, home builder, and master cabinet maker, the trade his father plied. One of the high points of his work life involved being fired from two different but equally lousy jobs in the same day!Jack and his second wife raised five biological chil-dren, and then were crazy enough to adopt six more. He’s never been noted for moderation. They are now content to herd their cats, Beatnik, Funky Kitty, and Lucifer.Honestly, Jack hasn’t gotten any less excessive, as you might notice from reading his writing. His life has given him an endless panoply of things to make fun of and to think deeply about, which he endeavors to share with his readers and fans. The author of ten novels, and a million words of humor and insight, Jack is always writing, and has no plans to ever retire.Jack also designs games, and teaches novel writing, and is once again serving as a judge for the Global eBook awards! There’s no dust on him from sitting around!

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    The Shaman's Calling - Jack Bessie

    Jack Bessie is the creator of the website, Jack Bessie’s Duct Tape for the Soul https://www.jackofwords.com It is filled with all sorts of insightful, funny, crazy and profoundly motivating stuff!

    In addition, Jack has a Tumblr Blog: Words of Bessie http://jackofwords.tumblr.com/

    He’s also on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackofwords

    And on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jackbessie/

    And he posts short stories free on Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/search/jack%20Bessie

    Besides his daily blog posting page that features Bessie-isms and Quoteables, you’ll discover a bunch of other pages filled with crazy and amusing features. And of course, there’s a whole section devoted to all his other books, with links to see samples and to buy them. (Authors are wicked opportunists!)

    You’ll also find a Free Book Page where you can get two different free digital copies of his books each month: https://www.jackofwords.com/free-books/

    All of his contact info & e-mail addresses etc. are there too He even gives you material in the Archives, for all you over busy or tardy ones. Jack and his staff are a pretty zany bunch, and you should find something that makes you laugh, giggle, cry or want to hang him. Check it out! It’s free, and worthy of being under your favorites!

    Come for a nice tour, and a chance to get to know him!

    A Thought

    The teen years are filled with new experiences and challenges, which test the heart and soul of every teen. Each human is a soul, eternal and carrying many burdens from prior lives. Add to that, the new scrapes and dings of living, of relearning, once again, how to live, and hopefully to love, and you have the potential for many problems and much misery.

    That some do poorly, should be little surprise; that any do well is frankly much more amazing! Yet among all people, some few do seem instinctively to do better, and have an easier time. They amaze and sometimes annoy their fellows, who look upon them with jealousy occasionally, as they themselves struggle to get through the day.

    When these ones, who seem so in tune with the greater picture of life and living, devote themselves to helping their fellows, the results are always surprising, and often marvelous. They are in fact spirit guides, given the task of helping their fellow souls to advance and find their own proper pathway.

    But just because they are advanced in their spiritual understanding, do not think they are perfect or above all normal human weakness and folly. They have as much potential to error as anyone does, and when they do, it helps immensely for them to have someone to save them from their own shortcomings.

    This is a marvelous story about such a one, who saves others, who in turn repay the favor quite nicely. It is intended for teens and young adults, who are still working to make sense of life, and are struggling to figure out how to live and love.

    Enjoy!

    Jack

    Dedication

    In Memory of Marlana Kinsler

    Marly had lived down the road, the grand daughter of friends, and one of my adopted daughter’s closest buddies. One of a pair of twins, she had been the good twin, while her sister was busy getting in one scrape after another. Marly too, went off the path, and became a wicked teen for a time, but finally graduated, and, having rediscovered her way, seemed poised to go on with a proper life, as the wonderful person she had previously been.

    Yet it was not to be. She suddenly became ill, and died within a week, a victim of a rare liver cancer which normally only attacks young children. We buried her when she was only nineteen, a grievous blow to family and friend alike.

    For all that teens can do to make your life difficult, you never expect to lose one with so little warning, hoping that once they somewhat master life, they will have time to relish that newfound maturity. That isn’t always true. Love them while you can. It may be your only brief chance.

    Jack

    1

    Halson Redmoon, known to family and friends as Moon, was minding his own business on Wednesday, getting books from his locker for his after lunch classes at Millpoint High, when something different and interesting occurred. Amid the jostling and chaos of the corridor, he had just started to reach out to close his locker door, when a passerby suddenly lurched into his side, having stumbled from being themselves bumped rudely.

    Moon reacted instinctively, using his free hand and arm to catch and steady the person who had made contact with him. He was surprised to find a girl, new and unknown, somewhat tall and slender, smelling nicely of conditioner and girl’s body spray, but before he could even greet her, she angrily shouted, Don’t touch me!

    Sorry, Moon replied, pulling his hand away. Perhaps next time when you fall into me, you’d prefer I just let you fall on your butt? he asked gently, neither cutting nor angry. I’m called Moon, he added simply. You’re new?

    The girl seemed disconcerted by his restrained but pointed response, un-nerved by his intensely penetrating jet black eyes. She glanced down awkwardly a second before saying, I’m Gwen…Gwen Peck. I just started today, she admitted, seeming to radiate displeasure at this fact. I need to go…find my next class! she added nervously.

    Moon asked where she needed to go, pointed her in the proper direction. Gwen turned without a word, neither of thanks or otherwise, and moved away, leaving Moon to stare as he absentmindedly closed his locker.

    What and who was that? the voice of his friend Moose inquired, having walked up at the last moments of Moon and Gwen’s odd encounter.

    She’s new…Gwen…Peck I think she said, Moon replied, shaking his head.

    Was that a scar on her cheek? Moose asked.

    Yeah…big one, Moon replied thoughtfully. But I’ve got the feeling she’s got bigger ones inside, Moon suggested as they trotted off to class.

    Moon diligently trudged through his afternoon classes, Spanish, English and World History. During free moments he found his thoughts considering Gwen; evaluating her manor. Moon was a Native, the son of a Sioux medicine man and his Sioux wife. He was well advanced in the study of his father’s healing craft. The evaluation of a patient’s health and well being, their mental harmony, the state of their being, their soul, all were things Moon had learned to judge, to gauge and evaluate.

    I don’t need to be a psychic to see that she is unhappy, is miserable, he sighed thoughtfully. Her pretty green eyes radiated anger and pain. I wonder what her story is, what she has experienced to be so wounded? Was it the same thing that gave her the scar on her cheek? he wondered during a quiet moment. Moon cared deeply for others, a crucial necessity for one who wished to become a practicing shaman, a medicine man. Moon had no other desire. At fifteen, Moon was no beginner, having learned to enter the spirit realm at will, to move freely within the spiritual realm of the Great Spirit. His sister Buffy, a year his junior, had also mastered this skill, was eager to be a medicine woman, a shaman, a healer also.

    When school ended, Moon said his goodbyes, headed for the bus that would take him and Buffy home. It would also convey their younger brother Kooie, after stopping at the middle school to pick up the younger students. Moon took up his normal seat toward the rear, was surprised and curious to see Gwen climb up the steps, speak momentarily with the driver, while consulting a slip of paper. She sat in an empty seat several rows in front of Moon, and was joined by his sister Buffy.

    Moon smiled slightly. Buffy, who Moon adored and was quite close to, was regarded as quite a girl, as most people might put it. Extremely smart, very outgoing, popular, having no trace of shyness and often even less restraint, she was as easy to ignore as a tornado! Moon had no doubt that if Buffy decided to take an interest in Gwen, nothing the poor girl would be able to do would dissuade Buffy. Perhaps that’s what she needs…whether she wants it or not! Moon considered, smiling wryly. Buffy tended to be, irresistible, to put it mildly.

    After the brief stop at the middle school, the bus headed off on its convoluted drive into the countryside. Moon spent his half hour ride talking to his fellow students, while keeping an eye on Gwen, curious to see where she would exit.

    By the time the bus reached his house, only a handful of students were left, Gwen among them. When the yellow chariot stopped at the end of their drive, Kooie and Buffy stood up. Moon was surprised to see Gwen get up also, as he followed behind.

    Off the bus, Buffy was talking non-stop, facing Gwen, whose back was to Moon. As the bus pulled away, she said, I want you to meet my other brother, having already informed her of her connection to Kooie.

    Moon smiled slightly, amused by the look of shock on Gwen’s face, as she turned and discovered him.

    We’ve already bumped into each other, he said and chuckled, pleased to see Gwen’s face turning red from an intense blush. You’re living here? he asked, pointing at the house behind Buffy, which had a large moving van in the driveway, preparing to depart.

    Y…yes…I haven’t even seen it…but I probably won’t like it! she declared loudly.

    Buffy and Moon glanced at each other, moving only their eyes, a surreptitious communication that conveyed a deep understanding and comment.

    We have to do chores…feed animals and horses, and then do homework. We’ll come over to meet your parents after that, and see if we can help with anything, Buffy suggested, in her usual, this is how it will be done, way of speaking.

    You…don’t have to… Gwen weakly suggested, clearly awkward and unsure.

    Buffy gently touched Gwen’s shoulder, noted a pronounced flinch, and replied, "Oh yes we do…we’re going to be neighbors…and friends; we have to meet your parents!"

    Gwen nodded, looking down, and turned to walk up her drive, acting sad and defeated.

    Moon and Buffy watched her while Kooie got the mail, and when they turned to cross the road and walk to their house, Buffy spoke quietly. She acts like she’s going off to be hanged!

    Moon explained his earlier brief encounter with Gwen, along with his thoughts and observations about her.

    Buffy nodded. She just tears at your heart, doesn’t she? I’ve never met a girl so sad, so hurt and angry. She’s like a wounded animal!

    Let me guess…you’ve decided to keep her…see if you can fix her…heal her, haven’t you? This may be way more than you’re usual ones, Moon cautioned his sister, referring to her constant attempts to heal hurt or abused animals.

    Buffy grinned. I suppose I’ll keep at it until I get my butt kicked, she sighed, well aware of her own soft-hearted tendencies.

    When they reached the house, they ate a quick snack and changed into work clothes, eager to get out and do the chores. The Redmoon Estate, as their father jokingly called it, consisted of ten acres, three of which were woods, and the rest, except for the house, garage, barn, sheds and yard was a fenced pasture, shared by their four horses part of the time, along with five goats and a couple of sheep. A separate pen held the male goat, who was named Jupiter, and another fenced area was the chicken pen with coop.

    In addition, several rabbits occupied hutches, the remnants of Buffy’s Four-H project, which had been passed to Kooie and then abandoned in favor of goats. The rabbits remained, enjoying their retirement as pets. Buffy was now into horse events, having trained her own horse, Scooter, another abused animal she had salvaged and healed.

    Feeding, watering, milking the female goats, gathering the eggs and any other tasks occupied all three young people for over an hour. Buffy would have worked Scooter another hour, but was eager to get her homework done and go see the new neighbors.

    When the three emerged from changing out of their work clothes and sat down to do homework, their mother greeted them. Brenda had come from helping her husband with his patients, and had come to the kitchen to plan dinner as well as to check up on the kids.

    How was school? she inquired of each of them in turn, giving special attention to Kooie, who was experiencing a lapse in his dedication to his studies of late.

    Buffy was pleased to discover that her mother had spoken briefly to Gwen’s parents, when she returned from an errand to town.

    They’re moving here from the city…Chicago, I think, Brenda informed them. They’ve had quite a time with Gwen…they’re hoping she’ll do better here. I gather she has some problems, and has been a handful.

    Buffy spoke without looking up from her algebra. She’s a mess…very hurt and angry. Her soul needs healing…in the worst way, she added, as nonchalantly as if she was suggesting a bowl of soup needed more salt.

    Moon looked at his mother and grinned, pointing at Buffy. Don’t be surprised if our little buffalo decides to make Gwen her new project, he suggested.

    Brenda sighed, looking suddenly long suffering. How nice! Buffy! Listen to me! People aren’t like animals…once you start with one, you can’t quit or get tired…not without doing even more harm to them!

    Buffy looked up, thoughtfully considering her mothers admonition. She sat, brushing her nose with the end of her long black hair, absent-mindedly toying with it. She suddenly broke into a large smile. "Mom…when have I ever quit…even on an animal? I’m not nicknamed buffalo girl for nothing…am I?" she asked sweetly.

    No, you’re certainly as stubborn as a buffalo. That’s why we called you that from the time you learned to walk. You wouldn’t go around things…you just charged straight over anything that got in your way. You haven’t changed a whole lot, honestly! Brenda sighed.

    I suspect it’s a trait of her soul. Maybe she needs to learn better, maybe it is there to aid her in her life’s work…one never knows, Moon suggested philosophically. Do you know what Gwen’s problems come from?

    Brenda shook her head, no. I’m sure you’ll find out in due time. Just be patient…they all may be pretty touchy about it. I do know that they bought the house, so they’re planning to stay a while.

    Good…we’re going over shortly to say hello and offer to help, Moon suggested.

    His mother thought that an excellent idea. Try to get her to come over here too…Gwen might like the animals, Brenda replied.

    When the Redmoon siblings arrived at the new neighbor’s house, they could hear the sound of Gwen’s angry voice, loudly complaining and arguing with her parents. Moon and Buffy exchanged glances and shrugged, as Moon knocked firmly on the door, hoping to be heard over the tumult inside.

    The arguing suddenly ceased, leaving an awkward silence, moments before the door opened.

    Hello! Moon began. Being the eldest, Buffy and Kooie deferred to him, allowed him to do the initial talking. We’re your neighbors from across the road, he explained.

    Oh yes! I met your mother earlier…come in…just ignore the mess! Cindy Peck instructed them. When they were all inside, Moon introduced each of them. Cindy was joined by her husband Stan, and at last Gwen appeared from the maze of furniture and boxes, still displeased from her argument with her parents.

    They talked a bit, learning general things about each other before Moon offered their help with the moving in.

    That’s so kind! Cindy replied, but we won’t do much more today…we’re all beat! If we can get our beds together, we’ll be happy. Stan and I don’t have to go to work until next Monday. Gwen…why don’t you show Buffy your room?

    The one I hate? Gwen replied, her anger plainly displayed.

    Moon observed the expressions on Stan and Cindy’s faces. They are neither surprised nor shocked at this rude and obnoxious behavior. They’ve seen it many times; they’re numb to it, Moon thought in a flash of insight.

    Well come on, let’s see what you hate about it! Buffy said, forcing Gwen to respond. The others listened, standing silently, as the girls disappeared down the hallway toward the bedrooms. When they heard Buffy loudly proclaim, Oh Gwen…this is the coolest room! followed by Gwen’s curious response, Really? Moon grinned at Gwen’s parents.

    That’s Buffy, he declared in response to their astounded expressions.

    Gwen’s done nothing but complain about the room since she got home! Stan said, shaking his head. It’s not much different than her one in Chicago, he added, obviously not understanding why it seemed to offend her so much.

    Cindy managed to smile. I think I’m going to really like your sister, she spoke, clearly impressed by Buffy’s comments and take charge demeanor.

    Moon looked at them thoughtfully. Gwen is very …troubled, isn’t she? he asked softly.

    Stan and Cindy glanced at each other, surprised by Moon’s acuity.

    We adopted her when she was six…she had been taken from her parents…abused terribly.

    The scar? Moon suggested.

    Yes, Stan nodded. RAD, ODD…do you know what those are?

    Moon nodded. Radical Attachment Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Her early life has taught her not to trust or to love, especially a parent figure. That is who hurt her. It is her heart and soul that require healing, which are more deeply scarred than her skin.

    Gwen’s parents were stunned at the depth of Moon’s insight. Cindy spoke, I’m surprised to see a teen with so much insight…is that a Native thing? You are a Native, aren’t you? she asked, her voice growing quiet, afraid she might have just stuck her foot in her mouth.

    Moon grinned. Lakota Sioux. Our father is a native medicine man, a shaman. Buffy and I are well advanced in the study of Native healing also, will do this when we are adults.

    Stan and his wife were both standing with their mouths open, shocked by this fact. Really? Does your father…treat people now? Stan managed to ask.

    Certainly. He has a large medicine room at our house. That’s why all the cars come and go all day.

    Does he only treat Natives? Cindy wondered.

    Moon chuckled. Oh no! There aren’t a lot of natives around here. Since the white man’s medical system got too expensive, more and more white people have tried his healing and have been pleased with the traditional medicine. They were interrupted by the return of Buffy and Gwen.

    "She’s got a great bedroom! I love her big windows…and if that wall by the closet was covered with tack board…she could cover it with pictures and neat stuff…just like I’ve got in my room! Buffy suggested, winking at Gwen’s parents where Gwen couldn’t see. Turning to Gwen, Buffy suddenly wanted to know, Are you Irish?"

    Maybe, Gwen replied, looking pouty at the idea. Why? she demanded, suspiciously.

    Cause you look Irish, and I love your freckles and pretty hair! Buffy informed her.

    "Oh…it’s strawberry blond. But I hate my freckles!" she added loudly.

    Oh poo! They make you look unique. The Great Spirit made people look different, so we wouldn’t be bored, she added, grinning, and that’s really wonderful, Buffy replied, touching Gwen’s freckle covered nose playfully.

    When the Redmoon kids had departed, having promised to come back the next day, and having insisted that Gwen come over after school to get acquainted too, Gwen went off to her room to work on the mess. Her mother stopped by later, leaning against the door jamb and asked. Well? They’re different, aren’t they? The native kids.

    I guess, Gwen replied, pushing a box out of her way.

    Buffy seems to want to be your friend.

    I don’t know what that is, Gwen answered flatly. Do you like Moon? she asked suddenly.

    Do you? Cindy countered, curious. Gwen had so far expressed little interest in boys and with her difficult personality, the feeling had been pretty much mutual.

    Gwen glanced at her mother, showing a tiny hint of a grin. He’s interesting…he seems so…calm…so…so…

    Deep? Cindy suggested. Buffy is too.

    Gwen sat down on her bare mattress, hugging herself and rocking slightly, which she did when thinking intensely.

    Yes…I think so. Buffy’s really pretty…and they all have such dark hair and eyes!

    Cindy merely nodded.

    Gwen looked down a moment, her cheeks suddenly becoming tinged with a blush. She said, Moon has a cute butt! and laughed delightedly.

    How long has it been since she laughed like that, sounding full of life instead of depressed or angry? Cindy thought, wiping her eyes, trying to remember; Gwen’s laughter forcing her mother to confront just how profoundly hurt and damaged her daughter really was. Such a simple thing…the ability to laugh, yet we’ve heard it so seldom from her! Cindy considered their new neighbors. A medicine man…a whole family of them! I wonder if they can help Gwen? The psychologists and doctors certainly didn’t! she thought bitterly.

    2

    Buffy had been having an excellent day at school on Thursday, her classes at least interesting, even if they weren’t fun. That ended abruptly during fourth period, when the voice of Mr. Cellans, the Assistant Principal, came on the room speaker, asking the teacher to excuse Buffy ten minutes early and send her to the office.

    Buffy, who was never in trouble, or at least seldom in such straights, was mystified as to what might be behind this odd demand. She fretted through the balance of her class, nervously watching the clock, and at the proper moment she hastily departed, at a nod from the teacher.

    Buffy quickly navigated the empty halls, went down stairs and soon found herself standing at the office counter, nervously waving at the school secretary, Mrs. Huntley.

    Mrs. Huntley smiled at Buffy, pointed at Mr. Cellan’s open door and said, Go in, giving no hint or suggestion what might be in store.

    Mr. Cellans greeted her while gesturing for her to sit down in a chair beside his desk.

    Ah, Miss Redmoon. Tell me…do you know the school policy on things like cell phones, I-Pods, and other electronic gadgets? he inquired pointedly, wasting no time.

    Buffy frowned, having no clue what this might have to do with her, said, Of course…they are forbidden during school hours. We can call home at lunch or before or after school, she added.

    Mr. Cellans leaned on his forearms, his fingers knitted together and asked, Then if you know that, why would you give someone an I-Pod to use, and tell them it was permitted?

    Buffy sat a minute, mouth open, shocked at this declaration. What…who told you that LIE! she finally exploded, not angry, but from complete disbelief.

    So you’re saying you didn’t give anyone an I-Pod to use?

    Mr. Cellans…I don’t even own one! I’ve got a cell phone…so does Moon, my brother. We keep them in our lockers, turned off. I’ve got an ancient MP3 player at home, but our family isn’t into having a bunch of gadgets! Now, who told you this? Buffy asked, calmly but intently.

    Mr. Cellans sighed rather loudly. I’d rather not say. I think you’re being honest, and I’m pretty sure now that the other party wasn’t. I don’t want to give you a reason to…to…

    Go beat someone’s butt? Buffy suggested, grinning. Mr. Cellans! Have I ever done anything like that? Buffy asked, acting as hurt as possible.

    I’m sorry, Buffy…no…you’re no troublemaker. Go on to class and forget about this, he said soothingly.

    Buffy however, stewed about this incident all through fifth period, all through lunch and all the way to the final bell.

    She was determined to let it go, to not let it continue to bother her during her evening. She sat with Gwen, as she had done in the morning, and they talked, both to each other and to the girls sitting in front of them. She was pleased that Gwen was talking to other people, pleased that is, until Gwen told the others, I got caught in study hall listening to music!

    On what? the girl named Nancy asked.

    On an I-Po… Gwen managed to say before freezing, suddenly remembering who she had blamed for having it.

    I-Pod? Buffy said softly, the one I got accused of giving you? she asked, suddenly understanding what had caused her trip to the office.

    Gwen had discovered something of extreme interest on the bus floor and stared silently at it, as her face turned bright red.

    Buffy leaned close, her head touching Gwen’s and whispered in Gwen’s ear, I just adore your pale, white skin…you can’t hide your feelings at all, can you?

    Gwen gave her head a tiny shake, expecting Buffy to blow up at any moment.

    Good…we’ll talk about this later, Buffy said, giving Gwen’s hand a small squeeze. Okay?

    Gwen nodded, utterly confused. She had been prepared for Buffy to scream at her, to berate her for her underhanded behavior. This response left her with no excuse to yell back, to clam up emotionally. She’ll rip my butt later, even worse! Gwen thought nervously, basing her expectations of Buffy’s response on what she herself would do in such a situation.

    When they got off the bus, Buffy insisted that Gwen accompany them to the Redmoon home, to see the animals and to help with the chores.

    I should go home, Gwen replied weakly, acting nervous, still dreading Buffy’s retribution.

    Why? Are you afraid? Moon asked, looking at Gwen with a questioning smile, unaware of her guilt.

    I’m not afraid! Gwen insisted.

    Good…then come on, Buffy said, in a voice that offered no possibility of refusal.

    Brenda had seen they bus arrive, saw the kids walking up the drive and noted that an extra girl was with them. She greeted them, was introduced to Gwen, and talked to her while the others changed into their work clothes. Gwen was clearly nervous, somewhat uncomfortable or out of place to Brenda’s observant gaze and she tried to sooth the young woman’s jitters.

    This is a big change for you, isn’t it? she asked.

    Gwen had nodded.

    It’s hard to move when you’re in high school, to leave all of your friends behind. Gwen had shrugged in response to this, then admitted, I didn’t have many friends… surprising herself with her own honesty.

    Buffy and her siblings returned, dressed for work, and they all ate a snack. Gwen noted that all three of them were only wearing socks.

    Do you do chores without shoes? she asked seriously. She was chagrined when they all laughed at her comment. Buffy came to her aid, saying, It looks silly, doesn’t it? Actually, we all wear boots that just pull on. What size are your feet?"

    Gwen replied, Seven…seven and a half…why?

    Cause you can wear an old pair too…unless you want to spend all night scrubbing poop out of your school shoes!

    When Gwen had exchanged her shoes for boots, they headed off. Buffy milked the goats, which amazed Gwen, especially when Buffy insisted that Gwen try her hand. She worked to get the hang of it, on a Toggenburgh doe named Ginny, saying, Sorry! several times as the gentle animal turned from its food and cast a baleful eye on the novice milk maid.

    Gwen was utterly astounded by the baby goats, the kids leaping and bounding like crazy. Buffy caught one as it zipped by, picked it up and had Gwen hold and pet it. Gwen was also mesmerized by the rabbits, finding them more plush than she had ever imagined a rabbit could be.

    Did you ever have pets? Buffy asked at one point.

    Gwen looked sad, said, I had a cat…but he got out…got killed… she fell silent a moment remembering. How many cats do you have?

    Buffy laughed. Who counts? At least a dozen or so. You met the dogs too.

    Buffy had saved the horses for last, knowing that Moon was tending them. She led Gwen into the barn, which had six stalls, four occupied by their horses. She said, Watch this, quietly to Gwen. She suddenly called, Scooter! and in a moment, a horse’s head appeared, sticking out of the open, upper stall door. That’s my buddy! she declared.

    It’s huge! Gwen exclaimed, having never been close to a horse before.

    He’s sixteen hands…he’s pretty big. But he’s a big pussy cat! Buffy assured her. Taking down a lead line from a peg on the front of the stall, she snapped it onto Scooters halter and opened the door. She led him out into the open passageway, turning him. Here, hold the lead, she said, giving Gwen the line. Gwen seemed even paler than normal.

    "What if he tries to run away?! she asked, sounding panicked.

    He won’t…talk to him, pet his face…he likes that, Buffy advised her, getting a brush off a small shelf and starting to brush Scooter’s coat.

    He’s so pretty! Gwen managed to say, her panic subsiding slowly. What kind of horse is he?

    Appaloosa…he was abused…and malnourished. When I got him he was afraid of people, afraid of other horses; just a mess.

    How did you…fix him? Gwen asked, amazed at how calm and unafraid the horse seemed now.

    Buffy stepped close to Gwen, pausing in her brushing. She looked straight into Gwen’s eyes, said, The same way you heal a person who’s hurt, wounded, crippled or abused…by loving them. Loving them day after day, no matter what they do, no matter how hard that gets, Buffy spoke, her voice calm but emphatic.

    Gwen looked shocked, as if she had stuck her finger in a lamp socket. She looked down, feeling almost naked in front of Buffy, understanding that this new girl could somehow look into her, could see her weakness, her vulnerability. Her eyes filled with tears. I…I don’t know much about…love, she managed to say, wondering what sort of sorcery Buffy was using to force her to admit this private secret.

    Buffy brushed the hair back from Gwen’s face, where it had fallen, lifted her chin, forcing Gwen to look up, to see Buffy’s face.

    But I do, Buffy said, smiling radiantly, and I intend to teach you! She nodded toward Scooter. I’m also going to teach you to ride a horse…you’ve never ridden one, have you?

    Gwen wiped her eyes with her free hand. No. I don’t know that I can!

    Buffy looked thoughtful. Why? Are you scared?

    Gwen nodded.

    Buffy laughed. Talk about scared! I rode a pony, starting when I was three. Dad has old time Native values… believes in having us ride as good as we can walk. When I was five, he’d put me in front of him, on a big horse… Sungod…we still have him…Kooie rides him. I just loved it, was all smug; I was riding a big horse! One day, he put me on Sungod’s bare back by myself…he made me ride while he led the horse, riding on another one. I was terrified to be by myself!

    Really? What happened? Gwen asked.

    I screamed and cried so hard I wet my pants! Father made me ride an hour with a wet bottom. I learned two valuable lessons that day, Buffy announced proudly.

    What were they?

    "Always go pee before you get on a horse! she said, laughing, and more important, I learned that you can overcome your worst fears by just doing what you need to do or want to do, in spite of your terror. Most people fail because they give into their fear!"

    I do that! Don’t I? Gwen asked, after a long silence.

    Buffy shrugged. I don’t know you well enough to say…yet. But understand this, I’m not inclined to let a friend be afraid to live…or to love…okay?

    Gwen managed to nod, overwhelmed by Buffy’s confident manor.

    When Buffy was done brushing Scooter, Gwen led him into his stall, turning him, and removed the lead, following Buffy’s instruction.

    When the door was shut, Buffy showed her the other horses, explaining their history. When they headed toward the house, Gwen stopped Buffy with a tug on her sleeve.

    Buffy…I didn’t mean to get you in trouble at school, she suddenly blurted out.

    Really?

    Gwen nodded. I was just scared…I just said the first name that came to mind. That was pretty stupid, wasn’t it?

    Buffy sighed. "All you had to do was say, I’m sorry, I’m new, I didn’t know the rule, Buffy suggested.

    Gwen looked astounded. I never thought of that! she moaned, her face turning red. I don’t want you to be mad at me! she added.

    Is that an apology? Buffy asked.

    Yes…I’m sorry. Will you…forgive me?

    If you do one little thing…yes, Buffy replied.

    Sure...what?

    We’re going over to see if we can help your parents. I want you to tell them about what happened today, what we talked about.

    Gwen’s face rapidly got even more red, as her mouth dropped open. Oh shi… she paused a moment. Not that! She looked at Buffy’s determined gaze, finally nodded. This is what you’re talking about, isn’t it? Confronting your fears?

    Verrrrrrrry good! Buffy declared, pleased.

    After changing, Buffy and her brothers went with Gwen to her house. They were greeted warmly by Gwen’s parents, spent an hour helping move boxes to the basement and attic from the garage. When they were finished, they talked a while, having a cold drink, before Moon and Kooie departed, going home to do school work.

    Tell mom I’ll be there in a little bit, Buffy had instructed Moon, before returning her attention to Gwen and her parents. With a bit of prompting, Gwen told Stan and Cindy about the Redmoon animals, her introduction to goat milking and how she had screamed like a little girl when a chicken had flown into her, flapping and squawking. She was obviously ecstatic about the animals, something she had never experienced before.

    You should see Buffy’s horse…actually all the horses! They’re so big! Gwen announced.

    Buffy described them, outlined her riding history briefly. I’ve trained Scooter and we do barrel racing mostly. I want to teach Gwen how to ride…but you have to agree. She will get tossed on her butt…I’ve been thrown a dozen times…I broke my arm once and I got kicked in the ribs…broke a couple of them too. Horses are big and powerful. It’s important to learn how to fall, how to ride safely, Buffy added, as calmly as possible.

    Gwen was looking rather pale at this information.

    Seeing this, Buffy said, It will help Gwen build her self confidence…all of the girls I know who are into horses have really good self esteem. There’s something neat about being able to control such a big, powerful animal, having it trust you completely.

    Stan and Cindy looked at each other, nodded in unison. That will be fine…if she wants to, Cindy said.

    Gwen nodded, in spite of her nervousness.

    Buffy grinned mischievously at Gwen, said, She has one more thing she wants to tell you about…an incident at school today. This put Gwen firmly on the spot.

    Gwen looked stricken, turned red, but managed to struggle through the tale, admitting what she had done and why.

    Her parents were completely shocked, not that Gwen had done something like this, but that she was honestly admitting it. Normally, she blamed others, never accepting the least trace of responsibility or blame. The fact that she had apologized was also a first, leaving them speechless.

    Cindy finally found her voice, said, Gwen…you need to make it up to Buffy…somehow. Gwen was staring at the floor, nodded.

    Buffy smiled. Can I have her all day Saturday? She can help me do chores, and then I’ll put her butt on a horse for a nice long lesson! As Buffy prepared to leave, having gotten their blessing, Stan asked, What sort of chores will you do Saturday?

    We have four stalls to de-poop, along with a chicken coop. Gwen will get some great experience at waste management! she replied, trying not to laugh at Gwen’s pouty expression. She’ll get her sinuses cleared out good too!

    3

    Friday had been a quiet day for both Buffy and Moon at school, Gwen doing nothing to upset their peace of mind or to distract them from their studies. It had not been so peaceful for Gwen, who had managed to escalate a simple question about her math homework into a trip to the office and a call to her parents.

    The ugly incident had begun with Gwen’s geometry teacher asking her to put one of her homework problems on the

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