above all things, I would love a nice hot bath,
and a few hour's sleep in a real bed before I have to do a lot of
celebrating!"
171 "By The Great God!" cried The King, "That wish I can immediately
grant!" He clapped his hands and servants
rushed forward. "Take this Lady to my wife's quarters. See that she is
bathed, dressed, and put to bed! Do not disturb her until she rises of
her own accord."
172 The servants led The Lady Hawk away, as the crowd roared with
laughter and joy.
173 "I think," cried The King, "that ALL our guests could probably use
a bath and some sleep before the celebrations begin! We have been very
rude to forget, in our excitement, the great hardship they have just
been through. Everybody go home, and let each family take one of these
soldiers with you; wash them, feed them, put them to bed. While they
sleep, clean their clothes, and in the morning bring them back to me,
that I may express my gratitude to each and every one!"
174 The people of Zo did not hesitate but quickly obeyed their King.
"Your people are in good hands," complimented The King. "Come. You,
too, need refreshing. We will talk about other problems after you are
rested."
175 So it was, The Hawk too, found himself in a tub, attended by two
lovely ladies. After he was bathed and given a robe, he was led to The
Lady Hawk. She slept like an innocent child. He kissed her on the
cheek, laid down beside her, and was soon, himself, in slumber. He
awoke late the next day. The Lady Hawk was already up. She stood by the
window looking out over the city. "Does it ever wash off?" she asked.
176 "What?" asked her mate.
177 "The blood," she answered. "Does it ever feel like you're clean
again?"
178 The Hawk rose and embraced her. "In time," he
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