| Vakama,
the village priest and general leader of Ta-Koro sighed as he
received Jala’s report via a small Kewa bird.
“What news?” asked the Guard, who had assembled outside Vakama’s
hut.
“He’s on his way,” said Vakama.
“Um… who…?” asked one of the younger Tohunga at the back.
Vakama sighed again.
“I suppose for the benefit of those who were not listening
the first time I shall have to repeat what I said again.
You all know of Kaiwera correct? Small, plucky, stubborn and fearless.
Yes? Good. He, I believe is a Chosen.”
Vakama paused for dramatic effect, but was met by blank or slightly
puzzled faces.
“You don’t know of the prophesy of the Chosen?!”
“Um… is it a new type of surf board, Priest?” said the member
at the back.
“No it bloody well isn’t! By Mata Nui I didn’t know such knowledge
had been lost from the open-topped heads of Tohunga like you!”
Vakama seemed to be balling all his anger at the small Tohunga
at the back. In the few moments that passed, a small drain near
the crowd was suddenly filled with warm liquid.
“Aye, it isn’t your fault,” said Vakama, ceasing his glare on
the stricken villager. “I will tell you all a tale. It is deep,
and dark, and you must not pass it on understand? Especially to
Kaiwera. Be very friendly to him when he comes back from patrol.”
There was the general atmosphere of agreement. You didn’t tell
other people what Vakama said, because if you did Vakama said
things to them about you. It worked.
“A long time ago-! What?! Did I say you could all come?!”
A few villagers who had been sneaking out of their huts towards
Vakama’s gathering seemed to wilt under his gaze.
“Ah for cryin’ out loud…” and Vakama went inside. A few moments
later he emerged with a large gong and a stick wrapped at the
end in Husi hide. After banging it several times, all the Tohunga
in the village came to join the story telling circle. Vakama,
apparently not affected by all the interruptions, came and sat
down in the chair at the head of the circle.
“Anything else? No? Perhaps I can start now? A LONG TIME AGO,
there were two brothers…”
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