158 "We can do little now," announced The Hawk,
"but care for our wounded and gather our dead. We have won the victory
for now, but their fear will pass, and they'll be back."
159 "By then," announced Bright Star, "we'll have defenses here, and
enough forces to keep them at bay. But now, like you say, as much as it
pains us we must withdraw."
160 So it was, the weary army marched back to Zo. The Zoans, having
heard
of The Hawk's greeting in The Land of The One, would not be outdone. As
they approached the city, The Royal Guard was waiting, lining both
sides of the road, the musicians played loudly and the people cheered.
The Hawk was on foot, at the head of his people, with Bright Star at
his side.
161 The Lady Hawk rode behind them, but The Zoans rushed forward,
lifted her off her animal, and brought her to her mate, so together the
three walked through the city gates to the thundering cheers of the
crowds, and descending clouds of flower petals.
162 As they reached the stairs leading up to The King's great Palace,
the procession stopped. An ox cart rode up to them, and Bright Star
lifted a bundle from the back, and carried it up the steps. "Father,"
he cried, "for his people he gave his all. He helped us win the victory
and did not care at the price. We cannot weep for one so brave, but we
must ever sing his praise.”
163 The Old King hugged his fallen and living son. "There shall be made
for him," he wept, "a place of remembrance. Long will his
story be told."
164 The King took the bundle, then, turning, gave it to some servants,
who weeping, carried it away. "Let us not mourn our loss," agreed The
King, "but let us celebrate with joy the victory he gave us, not only
that HE gave us, but that you ALL gave us! You who have