nemextended
THE BOOK OF SHIONI AKEK
Chapter 7
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1
Seven years after the Tucantorite schism, the valley of Mentina has partially healed, and Elak Kowa has been resettled by Shioni Akek's brother, though the land itself seems to grieve the wound of division. Shioni reflects on his own people's migration into the mountain country surrounding the canyon of Wallohitwah, where the Nem of Nespelem welcomed them warmly. Too numerous to crowd one city, they divided into five companies.
2
Shioni settles in Nespelem with his wife's kin, builds a house before winter, and is invited to serve as high priest. He contrasts his peaceful resettlement with the Tucantorites' contentious one, arguing that outward similarities mask opposite hearts. The community gathers in winter to dance and sing thanks for snow, the land, and the ancestors.
3
Grandmother Akekt, moved by the Spirit, receives a sacred song in the Nem tongue, which is taught and dedicated to future generations.
