'Hah, it has really been a long time since everyone gathered like this. I don't know if I should be happy or annoyed,' I thought to myself.
Bowing my head as a greeting to all the people in the cavern, including those hidden from view, I walked ahead a little and sat a few meters opposite the chief. With everyone having a clear view of me, I began to explain everything that had transpired and emphasized the abnormality I felt in the sand that day. As I was explaining, I couldn't help but think how normally it would just be the chief and I having this discussion, with no need for it to take place in this inner cavern hidden beneath his hut. However, it was necessary, as I was seriously concerned about the unexplainable happening.
"Is that all?" the chief asked when I finished. I nodded to show that I was done.
"Then I allow everyone who would like to ask Aleazm any questions to raise their arms," the chief announced. Two people raised their arms.
"All the individuals in this room held significant power and status within the Village. They were members of the governing body, acting as spokespeople for the people and ensuring the village's peace. At the top of the cavern, hidden from view, resided the esteemed elders. These elders consisted of former chiefs, chieftesses, and other former spokespeople who were still alive. Their knowledge and experience were invaluable, although they mostly observed without interfering. However, given the unique circumstances, they were present today as their wisdom maybe needed.
Among those present, two individuals raised their hands. Waka, the spokesperson for the youth and children, and Joheki, the second general responsible for defending their home. The chief acknowledged the general first, prompting Waka to lower his hands.
"Did you take a new path to return home?" the chief calmly inquired.
Everyone looked at me, waiting for my response. It was a thought-provoking question, making me question the reality of what I had experienced and whether it could have followed us back home. If I had indeed taken a completely different path to return home, it would mean that our original evacuation plan, which involved splitting into small groups and heading in various directions to different areas while we the generals fought the enemy, would still be intact.