He hugs her around the shoulder. “Some of us love you too.”

Asumini was looking at the paintings. “There is my Auntie," she said tearfully. "She loved us, but she was always my father's. I will miss her."

“She told me she would not leave until her work was done.” He thought a moment. “Besides, I will always be there for you.” Metutu took Asumini in his arms. “As your father gave up his life to pass the truth to me, I will make sure you have what you need even if I must do without! I will be another son to Kima, and a husband to you.”

“Metutu, we do not want your pity. That is not the kind of love we feel for you.”

“Not pity! I have always felt for you. You were always so wise and as beautiful as I am plain.”

“Your face is not plain.”

“Only because you are beautiful enough for both of us.” He kissed her first on one cheek then the other. “Don't blame me for feeling attracted to you. What son of Chako could look at you and not think guilty thoughts."

She gave him a chaste kiss. “Someday there will be a time for guilty thoughts when grief has run its course. And they will be of you. If you love me, give me time.”

“I give you my whole lifetime. When you need me, I won’t be far behind.”

CHAPTER 19: THE NEXUS

Metutu could not get out of his mind what the lioness Asumini had said. “Have courage.” What did she mean? Courage about the death of Busara? About his new faith? Secretly he had fantasies about calling her up, opening his arms, and saying, “Come to me, Asumini!” And she would make him her brother and tell him wonderful things about life and beauty.

His father wanted him to be the next chief. But he felt the call to do the will of Aiheu. He longed for a life of sincerity. Of course, he had hopes that one day mandrill society would change. But change must come from other sources. Is that the courage he must have?