Chief Panther leads Onyx through the crowd, the villagers cheering and jumping as thy pass.
Onyx waves and shake hands with the youngest villagers, and even blows kisses to a few of the males.
The males with the little bush stars continue to dance as Panther and Onyx parade towards the outer parts of the village, the crowd watching. A few follow after, but far away enough that they do not get in the way of the dancers.
The Parade of the Stars cirlces the village's border once around, since it is over a mile long in circumference. This takes about ten minutes, though the dancers show no signs of slowing, and the parade heads back into the village at the same point they began the circle.
Panther leads Onyx to the Southern Plains Village's most important spot, the Throne of the Moonstar. It is an ancient and revered chair made from the stones of the plaines, with small carvings in the legs and arms.
Chief Panther sits Onyx down in the throne as the Star Dancers circle them, swinging their arms and spinning the leaf-stars.
"The Stars shall continue to parade as Lady Onyx is served her meal of Shadow Pork and Beans!"
At Panther's words, a pair of young females come up and bring Onyx silver ware and a platter of food. It is indeed Shadow pork and beans.
Onyx nods her thanks as the females hurry back to their places. Onyx cuts into the dark-colored meat, and puts it into her mouth.
It is juicy and tender, tantalizing to Onyx's taste buds.
"Delicious!" she compliments, and the young females who served her blush, honored that their guest enjoys the meal they prepared.
"Stars," Panther exclaims, "you may rest!"
At his order, the Star Dancers spin and stop, bowing to their chief and esteemed guest.
"Lady Onyx has approved of the meal," Panther proclaims, "and now we shall ALL partake in this Solstice's fine feast!"
At that, the villagers cheer again, and everyone moves to find places to sit as they are served.
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