Page 26 of Scarred

“In a way, yes,” Suni answered. “I am evaluating these two on their survival skills, weapon skills, and other abilities when faced with obstacles of everyday life. They have passed every test.”

“It is because we have had great teachers,” Gar said. “We never expected you to be the one giving us our final evaluation.”

Suni grunted. “It is my honor to train the next generation. When I finally lay down my weapon, I want it to be with the confidence that the village is protected.” He didn’t think he needed to tell them the chief was only making sure he returned.

“You have many solars before that time.” Gar said. “You are still in your prime.”

Suni tried and failed to keep his chest from puffing out with pride. He was in his prime and had a lot to show a female. He hoped Amma would notice and be pleased. “Even my sire continues to pick up his weapon.”

“Speaking of being in prime fighting condition, why are all the animals here out to eat me? Well, not all but the ones who hunt during the day seem super interested in what I taste like.”

“We are taught as calves to stay hidden during the day unless there are at least ten warriors.” Gar said. “From my understanding, it has always been this way.”

“I’m lucky I figured it out and was able to find this cave.” Amma wrapped her arms around herself. “I had a hard time even connecting with them. I never had a hard time doing that in my world.”

“You have nothing to fear. I will be your shield.” Suni assured her. “Most predators are not going to attack an adult and the ones who dare become meals.”

“I don’t want you to get hurt on my account.” Amma said. “I’ll just stick to moving around during the night. I’m sure I can train myself to be nocturnal.”

Suni kept his thoughts to himself. He would have to show Amma with his actions that he was a worthy male and could keep her safe in any situation. “Life is different within village walls. Most everyone is active during the day. Gar, Rown, if you are finished eating, finish dressing the kill.”

The two brothers jumped to their feet and returned to their duties.

“As much as I wish I could stay in this spot longer, but I need to start bringing my family together. Do you think you could point me in the direction of Jo’s village?” Amma asked. “She can fight, and I think finding her first would be best.”

Suni scratched his chin. His chief would be expecting him back in two rotations with word of Gar and Rown’s accomplishments, but he couldn’t leave Amma in the woods alone. “I will escort you to your cousin.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want you to be taken away from anything.” Amma looked small hunched over and staring into the fire. He could no more leave her to fend for herself as cut off his horn.

“I am sure. My dam would not be happy if I told her I left a female undefended in the forest.”

“Suni, we cannot enter into another territory without permission from our chief,” Gar said. “We have to return home.”

Suni growled at the younger males. “You and your brother will return and inform our chief of my intentions. I will return as soon as I can.”

“Are you sure?” Gar asked. “I can stay with you and Rown can return.”

“Do you think I will be unable to protect Amma?” Suni’s ears slapped backward as his fur puffed out. He would not tolerate young warriors questioning his virility, especially in front of Amma.

“No,” Gar lowered his head in submission. “I was not thinking.”

Suni huffed out a breath as his fur settled. He turned to find Amma standing and stretching. His eyes devoured her beautiful body. He had never seen such a perfect form. He wondered if she would ever give him permission to touch her whenever he wished.

She yawned. “As much as I’m enjoying our conversation, I am tired. I think I’m still on earth time,” she laughed. “I’ll see you guys once the suns set. Please don’t leave me.”

“I would never leave you. Rest well.” Suni felt a tug in the region of his heart as he watched Amma disappear inside the cave with her animal friends. His instincts screamed at him to follow her and make sure she was safe, while the more reasonable part of him knew he had to give her time to come to care for him and allow him to share her furs.

“Suni,” Gar stood next to him. “I am sorry for speaking out of turn. Are you hoping to make her your mate?”

“Yes.” He saw no reason to lie. The brothers would spread the word. He wouldn’t have to worry about another male trying to steal Amma away when they returned.

“I am happy for you,” Rown said. “It is a blessing.”

“A blessing I never thought I would see,” he admitted. “I want you both to know you have passed every test I have put before you. I will inform the chief of your accomplishments.”

“How?” Gar asked. “If we return without you, everyone will think we failed.”

“Inform the chief I have passed you both. He will take your word as warriors. I will back up your words upon my return.”

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