Page 100 - Microsoft Word - FANG EMPIRE - NOVEL.docx

Heads turned toward the desert. There it was, a mile long caravan of camels laden down

with supplies and provisions and guarded by a detachment of armed soldiers on horseback.

“They carry provisions to Timbuktu,” said Sooth.

“There must be a hundred camels,” said Zuba.

“Why so many?” said Raki.

“Because they also carry luxury goods and comforts,” said the queen. “I knew Ramoth

couldn’t last long without the pamperings of power. The best way to cripple a bear is to take his

honey.”

“What are your orders, my queen?” said Daka.

“To your mounts! We attack!”

GoGo and Sooth streaked away and exited the mountain terrace.

“One of you sons of jackals give me a sword,” said Sygnosis.

Daka tossed her a heavy, curved sword. She caught it in her right hand, threw it high into

the air with ease. It flipped end over end. She caught it behind her back and twirled it like a

master, as the men marveled. Then she bound away like an antelope leaving the warriors frozen in

amazement still sucking the bones of their lamb chops.

“You were saying?” Omar said to Cane.

Cane looked startled. “You heard my conversation?”

“As you pointed out, I am a vampire now. My hearing is thrice that of yours.”

“I meant no contempt, my prince. I hope I have not given you cause to doubt my loyalty.”

Omar chuckled. “I doubt only your ability to lift your sword with as much skill as you lift

your ale!”

“What?” Cane replied. “My ale hand is my left. My sword hand is my right.”

“Then let us bloody the sand together, my friend.”