Page 21 - Microsoft Word - FANG EMPIRE - NOVEL.docx

Kanja’s own self-esteem dipped.

Omar made his way toward the throne when suddenly, like a royal gatekeeper, Ramoth

blocked his way under the guise of a greeting. “Welcome back, Prince Omar. You cut short your

hunt?”

“Something in the air isn’t right tonight.” Omar’s cutting glare made clear the double-

edged sword of his words.

“Bad juju?” Ramoth inquired, ducking the strike.

“Very bad.”

“So you found nothing . . . again?”

“I found fellowship and adventure.” Omar sidestepped Ramoth and his snide remarks then

approached the throne.

“Father, thy countenance is the source of my honor.”

“Thy charm is the source of my amusement,” Kanja replied as he rose and embraced his

son.

Omar returned the king’s affection but his tone became more formal as he stepped before

the queen. “Mother,” he said, bowing deeply.

Kanja noticed the amendment in Omar’s manner—as if more esteem was suddenly present.

“My son,” GoGo replied with equal formality.

The prince reached into his cloak and removed a beautiful saber-tooth necklace. The long

tiger teeth were neatly strung along a golden twine, with the smaller teeth in between.

“For thee, my queen.”

“It is beautiful. Made with thy hand?”

Omar nodded. “The beast was not my kill, but its sabers were too perfect. They reminded

me of my ferocious mother, sharp and strong. I could not leave them to be swallowed by the

sand.”

“Grace me my son.”

Omar placed the necklace around GoGo’s neck as the king looked on.