THE SHAMAN
"From Shadows of Chaco Canyon:"

The shaman had long, curly hair streaked with gray. Curly hair was unheard of among the people of Chaco Canyon, but the shaman had been born with a full head of silken curls. It was believed the spirits had chosen him to be a spiritual leader while in the womb.

A few strands had escaped from the long braid hanging down his back and framed his rugged face in spiral tendrils. His prominent brows were arched above jet-black eyes, and his face showed signs of strain. His efforts to intercede on the people’s behalf were etched in the lines of his face and in the slight stoop of his shoulders. The spirits remained displeased. What else could explain such a severe drought?