The next morning, Tatanka stood before his assembled people. He was holding the headdress and beaded shirt, insignias of the office he now held, in his hand. He asked Lee to stand with him.
In a strong, steady voice, he explained to the group he could not be their chief: that he respected the way of the people too much to insist on being chief in his way with Lee by his side. They would now call a council and a new dynasty would be formed: a new chief would be chosen. There was no grumbling or protest, just quiet acceptance. This was the way it was. Tatanka handed the headdress and shirt to Wise Eagle. Wise Eagle embraced the young brave.
“You take care of my mother,” Tanka said to Wise Eagle.
The Shaman nodded.
As Tatanka and Lee left the assembly, Lee asked, “Now what?”
“We go.”
