messengers from Fr brought word of your deeds at
their capitol, and I remembered the slaves I had bought from a desert
bandit, and I told The King of my suspicions. 'Yes,' cried The King,
'Yes! The Children of Spirit are very touchy about their women's
freedom. Quite possibly what you say is
true. This IS the treasure this brave warrior seeks. Find out the
whereabouts of these women. If need be, I want them brought to the
palace quickly!'
90 Then, when we heard what you did at the gold mine, there was no
doubt in our minds what you were after. When we heard that you had
freed some of our own people, and led them in battle, we had no doubt
you were the man in the Dream. We had the women gathered, and brought
to the palace, and sent out descriptions of you to all the harbors,
and, border patrols. The rest you know. You have come. We will give you
what you seek. We ask only you depart in peace."
91 "If I have what I desire," agreed The Hawk, "I have no reason to
cause you any trouble. I can only accept your
hospitality for a short while, and return home before the summer's heat
blocks the desert."
92 "Then here's to your stay!" cried The King, lifting his cup, "And a
prayer for a safe journey home!"
93 Everyone lifted their cups. "Pleasant stay!" they cried. "Good
journey!" The Hawk answered the toast, and the rest of the evening was
quietly enjoyed.
94 For the next few days The Hawk was the joy of the city. Visiting
every rich home, he was offered every pleasure; some
because of his people's customs, he had to politely refuse, but none
took offense.
95 One afternoon, as he returned to the Palace, The King was waiting
for him, a beautiful young woman at his side looking very bashful.
"I've been trying to think of a gift for you," announced The King,