Chapter 17

  By evening of the next day Cage and the warriors arrived. None were more happy to see them than their loved ones. Cage got off the horse and found himself embraced by Meeka and Brooke together. Elder Shania came forward to break the reunion before anything else got in the way. “Chief, what news do you bring? For you to ride a horse and to push them so hard must be dire indeed.”

  Cage looked over to see the four horses quivering from such a difficult run. Two were even bleeding from the nose. He felt no better as his backside hurt and his muscles ached. Even Zanza and the ones who followed were overly exhausted. He looked to the four and said “All of you, go get something to eat and rest. I’ll take care of the rest. You can explain all you witnessed once you recover.” They nodded and moved off into the village. He then looked down at the two beautiful women at his side and smiled “It is good to see you again.”

  Meeka pulled on his arm and said “Tell us after you sit and eat yourself.”

  Brooke too helped him to their tent.

  He and much of the tribe sat down. He first drank five filled cups, after cleaning them. He then tore into the plate laid out for him and ate ravenously since he forced the hunters back home, breaking only once to water the horses and relieve themselves. As he ate he saw many litters that a horse will drag and much of the village packed. No teepees were broke down, but it seemed the village appeared somewhat ready. Between bites he looked to everyone and asked “What have I missed since we left?”

  Meeka explained “After the last Olon recovered, he left us to warn others. Also two neighboring tribes came to warn us if we had not heard of the invasion. They tell us they are packing and heading for Castle Emroc to help bolster forces to push the enemy out of the plains. Another herald also visited us saying King Skylar welcomes any tribes people who are willing and able to help.”

  “Any conclusions reached?” He asked after swallowing a mouthful.

  “No.” Brooke stated. “As chief, it is your decision where to lead your people. But we did as