Part 39 (1/2)

Syzambry resolved to honor theoi were two of the Star Brothers

”Star Brothers,” he said as they were ushered into his tent ”I hope it is good tidings that you bring s could be better, and likeorse,” the elder of the two Star Brothers said He had a beard bound with brass wire into three plaits and a fluent coue

”We have come without our beast, which cannot live away from the lake we made for it We have also come with only part of the warriors of the tribe The reuard our women and children froe themselves for our service to you”

Syza told both less and more than the truth

The courtly manner of the Star Brother did not ease hisallies by telling them what they wished to hear

”How ht, and what chiefs?” Syzambry asked

That should smoke out so the best of the tribe, but no chiefs whose names you would know”

”Then ill lead the warriors in the final battle?”

”We shall stand close to the forefront of the battle,” the younger Star Brother said ”As we shall also be a the warriors, e say, they will hear easily”

”I am sure they will,” Syzambry said Pain throbbed in his head, not froe at fools ”But will they hear the commands of men wise in war? I doubt not your intent, but have you ever fought in such a battle as this will be?”

The two Star Brothers could do no ht as rant that I may place one of my own captains over your warriors? It will be prudent for you as well as for the

”I doubt that the greatest sorcerer in the world can cast a useful spell when he is trying to keep steel frouts,” Syzambry said He tried to keep his voice level From the look of the Star Brothers, he had not succeeded, but they recognized his authority

”Good Then I will chose a captain within days, and you may come to know him before we march Is there more?”

The wizards shook their heads and withdrew Syzambry waited for a decent interval, then su with the Star Brothers

The rew pale ”You want ed-arse hill ood wine first Drink lightly, see that they drink deep, and listen Listen, and what you hear, tellat times worth more-a man with keen eyes and ears, and a mouth he can keep shut Also, I think you understandto these last words, but he nodded ”Ah You s in like this?”

”You presuivewhat the Star Brothers are hiding”

Itso for nocuriosity Yet Syzaoi than the Star Brothers had told him

He was almost certain that Eloikas and histhatroyal cause and make it more formidable on the day of battle-