The next day, most of the villagers gathered at the stone circle to listen to the new village headman speak. Ranex announced that he wished to address everyone, not just the family elders, today at noon. Neither MO-126 nor Granny Greenflower knew what he planned to say.
People began to gather over an hour ahead of time, clustering toward the center of the ancient monoliths and clumping into impromptu discussion groups. MO-126 listened in on a few of them as he staked out a spot from where he could get a good view. He planned to record the event.
“Most of the conversations he overheard were about the same thing. The villagers knew they had a problem and they wanted to hear what their new headman planned to do about it.
A hush rippled over the crowd as Ranex made his way to the center of the circle, avoiding all questions or even acknowledgement of those offering him friendly greetings and support. He climbed onto the altar stone and held up his hand for silence, which he got. MO-126 began recording.
“The families are divided,” Ranex began. “A dear friend of mine has died, and people are fighting among themselves. This cannot continue.”
Noises of agreement rumbled from the crowd.
“Some have said I should step down as headman in favor of Movey.”
“Movey—Movey—Movey,” a small group of men began to chant.
“Shut up!” Ranex yelled. “I’m not done.”
The overeager Movey supporters fell silent with only a little encouragement from those around them.
“I could also try to force my leadership. There are a few ways that might be possible, but none appeals to me. So instead, since we already seem to have two villages here anyway, I’ve decided the best thing to do is to have two villages in fact. In three days, I’m going to leave here to start a new village, and anyone who wishes to come with me is more than welcome to do so.”
Ranex ignored the shouted questions about wild animals, demons, getting lost, and starving, and held up his hand again until a semblance of quiet anticipation fell over the crowd.
“Our stories tell us that our ancestors came here long ago from a village far away. If they could do this, we can do this. With luck, we will find a place before the planting season is over.”
While he was talking, Movey made his way to the center of the circle.
“You’re crazy,” the former and still hopeful candidate for the position of headman said. “How do you expect to avoid getting lost? How will you hide from demons and escape the other hazards of the wilderness? A good leader would not ask his people to face dangers like these.”
Ranex remained calm. “If there are enough of us, wild animals will not bother us, and our family spirits will protect us from the demons of the wilderness just as they protected our ancestors who came here. Together, we are still a village, and our family spirits will be with us, even if we are traveling.”
“Hah! Anyone who joins you is as mad as you are. You’ll be lost in a day and wandering until you starve, unless something eats you first.”
“I believe you are wrong,” Ranex said. Then he lowered his voice.
MO-126 adjusted his hearing and caught every word Ranex whispered to Movey. “You wanted to be the headman of this village. This is your chance.”
Movey regarded the other man with a bemused expression. “Half a village—,” he began.
“Is better than one that’s divided,” Ranex finished. “Besides, even I don’t think half of the people will put their trust in me in such an endeavor. Those who do not are putting their trust in you, and I hope you will do your best by them.”