Skither- This is evil news you bring me. Shaezar was a wise and noble
leader. I grieve for him. It seems that many things have changed in my
absence. (A pause). Very well, then. Send the man-beast down to me.
I would have words with him.
Akar (sadly)- As you command it.
Moving to the northern and uppermost portion of the ledge, Akar looked
up to the place where the others stood waiting. Barking sharply three
times in succession, he summoned the man-child to come down.
'What is he saying?' asked the girl.
'The Mantis wishes to speak to me. I hope that is good. Wait for me
here, I will return as soon as it is safe.'
Feeling terribly small and exposed Kalus began to descend, running
quickly through his mind all the things he wanted to say, while trying
to muster the courage to say them. Stepping weak-kneed out onto the
ledge, he felt his heart pounding, and as he approached the Mantis'
awesome form, felt both hope and despair arise with equal strength
inside him. His mind raced. Had he read the moment correctly? Did he
dare ask for refuge? How would they live if the Monarch refused him?
The moment was upon him; there was no time to ponder.
Bowing low, he saluted the Mantis. Using modified arm and wrist
movements he hoped the other would understand, he signaled the following
words.
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