The Call of Crows

Chapter 33: Salvation

"What?" Orhan gasped.

His mind raced with possible answers to this threat of attack from the Nikan. Part of him still didn't want to believe the Khan's forces had been right.

But the people came first. He had to remember that.

As the Jambudvipi women described the issue, the Qahtanads grew visibly disturbed.

"What do we do?" Lokapele asked.

"We're not far from a safe haven." Orhan said. "Back in the age of the Great Khanates, our ancestors constructed military forts across the steppe. One that once belonged to the old Khazhig tribe is within reach."

"Running from them will just prolong the inevitable." Kameko said, "We need to face them head on."

"My people are too weak to fight off another invasion!" Orhan argued.

"Even more reason to appear strong. If we rally, we have a chance." Kameko assured him.

Orhan scoffed, "A chance?"

"I'm with Kameko here." Seang said, "I know my people. A chance is all they really need."

"I won't allow more of my people to die."

"Then take the risk. Running like cowards won't save any lives. They'll hunt you down and kill you." Kameko insisted.

"We cannot afford such a risk! I will preserve my people! No matter the cost!" Orhan shouted, "This is my clan! You are my guests! Don't overstep your boundaries!"

"Perhaps we should allow the people to decide for themselves whether they wish to fight." Shahla suggested.

"Fine by me." Kameko folded her arms.

Orhan gave a slight nod, "Then let us address them."

He broke up their circle and called to the camp, "Attention! Everyone, please stop what you're doing!"

His people looked at him in surprise.

"It is unfortunate news, but the Nikan may attempt to strike us once again tonight, giving us mere hours to respond. Our guests and I have reached an impasse. We will respond however it is you wish to respond."

Murmurs exploded through the clan, nervous whispers intermingled with terrified gasps.

Kameko stepped in front of him. "Enemies come once again to ravage your people!"

Orhan scowled, but allowed the brutish woman to continue. He knew his clan. He wouldn't even have to speak.

"Are you going to let them trample over you a second time? Fight with me! Men, women, sons and daughters! With our power, we have a chance at repelling them and eliminating them for good! Run and they will come for you once again! Stand your ground and we will bring them to their knees!" Kameko triumphantly raised her glaive.

Her intense expression fell somewhat when she didn't get the reaction she was expecting. People were panicking. They feared yet another massacre.

"We can ride to Khazhig fortress before they arrive at sunset." Orhan said, "Pack up the camp. We must make haste if we are to escape another slaughter."

The Ucari sprang into action, packing up their supplies and breaking down their tents.

"You would rather let them hunt you like animals?" Kameko roared with an inordinate rage, "You would hide like a craven? You will die this way! With valor, you have a chance!"

"Valor died among us eight years ago." Orhan glared at her, "Don't go attempting to revive the deceased."

Kameko shook her head with disgust, "Perhaps a coward deserves to die."