'Son of the hill-tribe, I have made my decision. I have thought long
on your words, and on other things you do not know. Understand, I have
good reason to mistrust your kinsmen. But Akar tells me you are not
like them, and I accept his judgment.' He stopped for a moment,
genuinely moved by the man-child's countenance: the troubled face,
exhausted by hope and fear alike.
'I have decided to let you stay, young one. But under the following
conditions. You will remain in the smaller cave, using my own only at
greatest need. Further, you must be prepared to leave it upon my
return, twenty days, perhaps more. You may fool my enemies for a time,
but it is unwise to think you could hold them off longer. I will circle
the mountain twice, giving credence to your sound-making device. Beyond
that you are on your own. I will give Akar the rest of my thoughts. He
stands in my place while I am gone. Heed him well, I do not place my
trust in him lightly..... Do you hear my words?'
'Yes, master. I am grateful.' He wanted badly to leave, but the
Mantis' knowing gaze would not release him.
'Is there nothing else you would say to me?'
Kalus' heart sank. He KNEW! Despair overtook him at the last.
'I--- I took from your cave a weapon. Please believe me, it was not
for myself alone.
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