something. This is a private campaign. The Church
put no money into it, so will get no share. If they feel you should have two shares, after we repay our sponsors and the tally
is made, I will give you my share. That will give you two, and your
custom will be honored."
64 "That you have offered," praised Shining Serpent, "is sufficient. I
will not take another man's treasure, but we do not have to tell my
people that. Agreed?"
65 "Agreed!" The Hawk smiled. "Now what is your other problem?"
66 "My people know you are great warriors. All these Frn pigs have
talked about is how you made a fool of them at their capitol stealing
your people right from under their noses. But as they are not of your
blood, my people fear you might waste their lives in battle. We will join you in your effort to free your people, but
they want me to lead them."
67 "Not an unreasonable request," said The Hawk. "It is agreed! Now,
let us sit and discuss my plan. Some of the women will stay behind to
guard what treasure we already have, and to make sure our prisoners
get into no mischief. We will put on your guards' clothes, hide some of
our people among you, some in the ox carts. We will march up to the
gate with those we cannot hide waiting outside.
68 We will have what extra weapons we can gather in the ox cart. Once
inside the gate, we will have to
keep the gate open, and the Frns off the wall until those in hiding can
rush through the gate, to our side. I'm not saying it won't be without
risk, but if enough of us can get in the gate before they realize
something is wrong, we've got a good chance!"
69 "We'll keep them busy!" agreed Shining Serpent. "There's
just one other small thing."
70 "What is it?" The Hawk asked.
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