The Prophecy
Caroline Bonham
Copyright 2011 Caroline Bonham Smashwords Edition
Published by Davlin Press
A Peek Inside
The helicopter rose slowly, spinning the mist of the night into gossamer threads. The copter banked toward Saudi Arabia, which allowed Khan to see the lights of his family schooner, Pieces of Eight appear through the threads of the mist. Khan tried to mentally communicate to his unending love to the beautiful Princess Cyneera, blissfully unaware of his departure in her slumber on the schooner. My beloved, I have to go. I need to infiltrate your old homeland to make a decision whether to reinstate you to your position as Princess. I have to make sure it would be safe for you. I don't want you to die like your father, the Sheik. However, the people hate Baghor for his cruelty. They want your family to rule again. Khan whispered low to himself, unheard in the noise of the helicopter, “May God bring me back to you. I love you, my darling Cyneera.”
Prophecy
Copyright 2011, Caroline Bonham, All Rights Reserved.
No portion of this work may be reproduced in any form without the expressed consent of the author. All characters are fictional; any resemblance to actual persons or events is purely coincidental. The places are real, but as they were then, not as they are now.
Cover Art by Jana Pivkova at j_ink_art@hotmail.com
Editing, Design, and Layout by David Broughton,
Davlin Editing, at 205-409-4080
tootall1121@yahoo.com
The Prophecy
Copyright 2009 Caroline Bonham
Many thanks to my good friend Laura, her help and inspiration has been invaluable.
Caroline
Chapter 1
Be ye fixed on your actions, be they great or small.
Late August 1970
Alexandra, Egypt
The woman at the Raziz Airline counter looked up as Khan came through the door, striding forcefully across the floor straight at her. She felt a tingle go down her spine as her eyes widened in appreciation. Wow! Now that's a real man. He is gorgeous with his long coal black hair, with the proud hawk like carriage of his head. I'd love to take those long white robes off him to make slow, passionate love. He's the type of man they write books about. He must be a sheik or someone important, the way he carries himself. He has to be at least six foot three inches tall. I love a tall, regal man like him or I would, if I get the chance. She smiled widely as Khan approached the counter "May I be of service to you, sir?"
Khan smiled back "Yes, I'm Khan O'Malley. Is the private helicopter ready for my flight? I believe Tim Harrison will be my pilot."
The attendant looked at her paperwork then nodded her head in assurance, "Yes Sir, that's correct, Tim will be your pilot and all is ready for you. If you'll go through the door to your left, he is waiting for you on the tarmac. Have a good flight. Thank you for using Raziz Air Service." Khan nodded in acknowledgment and before the woman could say more - something more personal, he turned and walked away. She watched him stride purposely through the lobby then out the door with a swirl of robes. His voice matches his demeanor. It's very deep, very sexy. I'll dream about him tonight. She gave a deep sigh as she went back to work.
~*~
Khan introduced himself as he shook hands with the pilot. At Tim's invitation he handed him his luggage then jumped into the front seat next to the pilot's. The pilot stowed the bags, walked around the helicopter one last time then swung himself into his seat. Khan turned toward him, "I'm ready whenever you get clearance. Thank you again for taking me at this unusual hour."
Soon, the helicopter rose slowly through the spun mist of the night as the silver glow of the moon reflected off the sea. The helicopter banked towards Saudi Arabia, which allowed Khan to see the lights of his family's schooner, Pieces of Eight appear through the threads of the mist. He watched as the lights appeared intermittently through the mist and low clouds.
Khan stared at the schooner's position as his heart reached out to his love, the Princess Cyneera, asleep, unaware that he left. Khan thought deeply, as if trying to communicate with her by telepathy. My beloved, I have to go. I need to infiltrate into your old home to make a decision whether to reinstate you to your position as Princess. I have to make sure it would be safe for you. I don't want you to die like your father, but the people hate Baghor for his cruelty. They want your family to rule again.
Khan whispered soundlessly to himself "May God bring me back to you soon, I love you, Cyneera." He watched as the schooner's lights disappeared from his sight completely.
~*~
At the other end of the flight, the pilot circled the outskirts of Riyadh before dropping down to the helicopter pad at the small airport. Tim asked politely "Is anyone meeting you?" He studied Khan's grim countenance, cold steel reflected from his eyes. I wouldn't want to make this passenger mad at me. He looks like he could take an army on all by himself.
Khan shook his head, "No, thank you for asking. I'm fine" He jumped down, turned to grab his bags then walked swiftly away.
Chapter 2
When you love, love well, hold nothing back
Khan followed a path he knew from memory, often turning to walk down streets and alleys, making sure he wasn't being followed, until he came to a dark shadowed door where he gave two sharp raps.
The door opened slowly, a shaft of light from inside the building spilled into the dark. A tall older man stood in the doorway, his face backlit. Khan recognized the craggy face and pushed his gurtera back from his face. The man gasped, then reached out to quickly draw Khan through the door into the safety of the house "Good lord, Khan, what are you doing back here? It's too dangerous. You know Baghor would love to kill you. You always were a thorn in his side, the way you protected the Sheik and Princess from his plots."
Khan smiled, "Old friend, I'll take care, but I need to go back in disguise to get Nuha and Jabar. I also want to talk to the people to see if Cyneera should come back to rule. We could overthrow Baghor if the people want it. I need you to darken my skin then buy me a racing camel. I will also need a strong, well trained Arabian horse. You know how I like them trained. I have a list of items I'll need if you can get them for me." He handed Shiraz a roll of bills.
Shiraz took the money with the list. "Come to the back room. I'll mix some walnut juice for you to stain yourself then at dawn, I'll go get everything you need. Tell me, is Princess Cyneera with you? I knew Noor wouldn't rest until he found you. I still can't believe I got out alive, Baghor slaughtered everyone that was a threat."
Shiraz was silent for a moment then continued, "Even if Baghor was destroyed, it would not be a good life for the Princess Cyneera. She would have to marry someone of royal stature. You know she loves you too much to do that. You should change your mind and marry her, leave the intrigue behind. Be happy, you both deserve it."
Khan looked steadily at Shiraz "I know Shiraz, that's why I'm here. I must make a decision I can honorably live with."
A number of hours later, Khan hugged Shiraz then stood back. He asked as Shiraz looked him over from the darker stained skin to the longer beard in shades of grey, "Will I pass?" Khan turned around to let him study his now grey streaked hair.
Shiraz nodded, "Yes, even I would have to look hard to recognize you. I still wish you weren't going, I'll pray for your safe return. Don't tarry, get in then right back out. You need to evaluate the situation quickly then be back here in two weeks at the latest. You remember where the cave is, don't you? There are supplies there, and underground pools. Hide out there if you have too. Now, give me a hug, you are like a son to me, please take care." He held Khan in his old arms murmuring, "Allah, please bring him safely back."
Khan held him, feeling Shiraz's gaunt thin body. If I make it back, I'm taking Shiraz home with me. He's a scholar. He would be wonderful with children. I would love to adopt him as a grandfather for the children already in the family, and if I decide I can marry Cyneera, the children we will have. As he pulled away, Khan told the old man, "I also think of you as a father. You have helped and guided me for six years. Have no fear, I will return here." He quickly turned to walk out the door, he pulled it closed, wanting to look back, but new he dare not, he might be tempted to take Shiraz and go now, before he completed his mission, as a man of honor, he must do what's right, according to his oath, regardless of his own feelings.
Chapter 3
A real gift is one for which nothing is required in return.
Khan mounted the waiting chestnut Arabian horse, picked up the camel's lead then quickly set forth on his journey. The horse was fit and strong, but didn't look like much at first glance. Only a true horseman would know that beneath the scruffy looking coat, were muscles of steel. Definitely not one of the pure white animals so highly prized in this part of the world. The camel was similar - nondescript, not the kind of animal that anyone would think about stealing. This one was a muddy brown, with an unpleasant attitude but very capable of carrying three weeks’ worth of supplies. Khan was gambling that a mere three weeks would be enough time to accomplish what needed to be done.
Khan traveled for a day and half across scrubby flat desert. Vegetation was limited, there was no water for the animals on this leg of the journey, but he knew that at the end of the second day he would reach a small oasis. Toward the end of the second day, Khan was pleased to see palms in the distance signifying the presence of water – the oasis. Both the horse and the camel smelled water on the soft breeze and picked up their pace. Fifteen minutes later, Khan and the animals reached the shade of the palms. Khan signed in relief and dismounted.
As his feet touched the ground, Khan heard a moan. He whirled around to face the direction the sound had come from and drew his sword from its scabbard instantly. He walked stealthily toward the sound. He glimpsed a gypsy wagon half hidden by the palm trees. A nearly white horse was tied to the wheel and whickered at him. Although he could see that a campfire had been made, no-one was sitting at it. He approached the wagon and patted the horse. Sword held out in front of him, he stepped up into the doorframe of the wagon. He could see all the way to the back and there was no-one inside. Puzzled he turned back then he heard the moan again, it was coming from behind the wagon near a group of small knee high palms. He jumped off the wagon and walked softly around the palms to find an older gypsy woman lying sprawled on her back in the sand. She was dressed in a white full-sleeved blouse, black vest with red full skirt billowing with petticoats. Her face and dark hair was caked in dirt, she seemed to be muttering to herself.
Khan sheathed his sword as he kneeled beside the women, he felt her head. She's burning up with fever. I need to get her out of the sun. He picked her up to carry her light frail frame into the wagon, where he carefully laid her on the bed. He looked around at the spotless interior of the wagon, noticed the walls were covered with beautiful painted flowers. Bright red and blue colored curtains hung at the windows. A vibrant yellow, blue and white patchwork quilt lay spread on the bed. He saw a large water bucket, grabbed it then ran outside to fill it with cool water.
He found a dipper hung in the tiny kitchen area, Khan scooped up some water and took it to the old woman. He brought the dipper to her lips and let the water trickle into her mouth. The old woman eagerly drank. "Can you tell me your name? I'll help you." She slowly looked at him, "Vadoma" she mumbled as she lost consciousness.
Khan swore under his breath. He needed to get her fever down, but wasn't sure how to do that. He thought for a moment then remembered what his brother Sabin had done when his wife Tabari had a fever. Tabari was feverish from infection at that time. He quickly found two more wooden buckets which he filled with water. He found s stack of towels under the bunk-style bed and dropped two of them in the buckets. He stripped Vadoma to her shift, while the towels soaked in the cool water. He then wrung out the towels and covered her from head to toe.
Khan left her to retrieve his bag and see to the animals. He quickly stripped the saddle and bridle off the Arabian, and took the bags off the camel. He put halters on both of them. He untied the white horse and led all three animals to the water. Since the white horse didn't seem the type to run off, he didn't hobble it. He hobbled his horse and camel, though he thought they probably wouldn't run off into the desert when they had food and water here.The animals drank, when they had their fill the three of them began to forage around the oasis on the Acacia trees. The hobbles weren't so strict they couldn't move around, but they couldn't run away at much of a pace. He would feed them all later, after doing what he could for this gypsy woman. They might be able to forage their fill.
Satisfied that the animals were taken care of for the time being, Khan picked up his saddlebags and headed back to the wagon. At the campfire he found the dried camel dung that made for fuel in these parts. He started a fire and set some water boiling for herb tea while he dug into his supplies for the dried chicken he brought. He wanted to make a light broth with it. It was at the bottom of the saddlebag. He went back inside the wagon to check on the woman and find another pot for the broth. Vadoma was still in the same position he had left her in. He touched her head briefly, it was still hot. He found a pot and hurried outside to make the broth. A couple pieces of dried chicken and a small square of herbs and dried vegetables went into the pot. Khan willed the water to boil faster. At last it did, Khan dipped the water dipper in the broth and poured the liquid into another shallow bowl he found in the wagon. Careful not to spill, he stepped back up into the wagon.
At Vadoma's side, Khan gently held her frail body in a sitting position in his arms as he encouraged her to drink. He was gratified to see the broth go down her throat. He hoped to see a break in her fever, but no such luck yet. Remembering that Sabin had held Tabari under a cold shower to help cool her down, Khan briefly considered immersing her in the pool, but thought better of it. If she had something really infectious, that would infect the pool too and pass the infection on to anyone who visited the oasis including potentially himself. So Khan made do with re-soaking the towels and re-wrapping Vadoma. Khan stepped outside the wagon to finish the chicken broth. That night Khan slept on the floor by Vadoma's bed. He woke frequently, to soak the towels and re-wrap Vadoma.
The second morning dawned with Khan hearing her moving around in the bed above him. He quickly rose to his feet as Vadoma put her arms under her, shifted her weight, as she tried to sit up.
Khan rushed over "Wait, let me help you, Vadoma" he said quietly as he gently lifted her up to tuck pillows behind her, "I'll make you some breakfast, but first, let me carry you out to wash by the pool. I'll remake your bed if you can sit in the chair for a while."
Vadoma stared at him, "How long have I been ill?"
Khan smiled at her "Two and a half days. Why are you traveling alone?"
Vadoma grinned weakly, "I visited my married daughter. I was rejoining the caravan when I fell sick. You are very kind to take care of me. Most people would have left me to die. Thank you young man, you may have a grey beard but you are not old, you are in disguise I would guess. I bet under that disguise, you are a very handsome, gallant, proud young man from your body carriage and demeanor."
Khan laughed his rich deep sound, "You are very observant for someone so sick."
Khan and Vadoma formed a strong bond as they talked, cooked, and ate together. Khan helped with the chores, including washing their clothes in a large tub. Khan readied them to leave, "Vadoma, I want to drive you to your Dom, I'll tie my horse and camel to the back of the wagon. I need to know you're safe with your family at the caravan." Vadoma agreed readily; she wanted a chance to introduce the man that saved her life to her family.
They laughed as they talked nonstop the whole trip. Vadoma gently pried the whole story out of Khan, including the seer's predictions that he would travel into danger and Cyneera would follow to save him.
Khan was surprised how at ease he felt with Vadoma I feel like I've known her forever. She is so wise. I wish I could've had a mother like her. She really cares about people.
Vadoma put her hand on Khan's arm, "Khan, take the seer seriously; she knew too much not to be right, be careful, but I bet your Cyneera comes after you like the seer said. Cyneera sounds like a strong woman that knows what she wants. You need a woman like her, she will come, I know it." She laughed, delighted with the thought.
Khan guided the wagon carefully into the Dom camp with all the gypsies running alongside their wagon. A middle-aged man hurried toward the wagon yelling, "Mother, Mother, we were so worried. What happened?"
Khan stopped the wagon, leaning out to extend his hand, "I'm Khan. I came across your mother four days ago. She was extremely ill. I stayed with her until she was well enough to return to you."
The man vigorously shook Khan's hand, "Thank you for caring for her; she is the matriarch of our Dom. I'm her son Tobar, this is my wife Simza, please come have tea with us," As he lifted his mother down, he hugged her tightly. The tears fell freely down Tobar's face, "Mother, thank God you're all right. I love you mother. We have been so worried about you, we sent search parties to find you, but obviously they didn't find you."
Khan stayed for the celebration feast that night, feeling totally at ease, while enjoying being part of the Dom's festivities. The fabulous food was never ending, enjoyed with lively music.
Vadoma rose, then walked forward to stand in front of Khan, "Khan, from now on you will be known as Nicu, protector-warrior of the people," She put a large gold beautifully carved medallion around his neck. "This medallion will protect you." She took his hand then produced a jeweled dagger from her skirt. She pricked his right wrist then her left wrist, Tobar wrapped their two wrists together with a long, red silk cord.
Vadoma put her right hand over the cord, "We are now of the same blood, you are part of the Dom, show the medallion to any gypsy, they will help you. You are now a son to me." She leaned over to kiss him on both cheeks then hugged him as the Dom cheered.
Khan was stunned, but quickly rose to his feet to show his respect and gratitude to Vadoma by kissing her on both cheeks. He hugged her gently then bowed low to her, "Vadoma, you give me a great honor. I will always think of you as a mother I never knew."
Khan realized he had a new family, which delighted him. I have come to love Vadoma as the mother I never had. She will be part of my life from now on. I can't wait to introduce her to Sabin, he misses a mother too.
The Dom made sure Khan slept well that night, they gave him a clean wagon to sleep in, while some of the gypsies worked through the night cooking or sewing. The next morning they presented him with gypsy clothes "These are for another disguise in case you need it. Take this food to replenish your supplies."
Vadoma handed him a bag of healing herbs, "Pack this into your bag, it will bring down a fever, use it as a poultice for swelling or poisonous bites. Remember, we will be around if you need us. I'll send a man to your cave every day to see if you need anything. Leave a note under a rock just inside the cave on the right. You know our travel route so make sure you let us know you're all right before you leave for home, my new son. I've grown to love you, Nicu."
Khan held her for a long time, "I've grown to love you too, Vadoma." He kissed her leathery brown cheek, then bowed to her. He mounted quickly, looked back once as he headed towards Buraydah.
Chapter 4
In the same way the moon follows a set path between the stars,
keep yourself focused on your destiny
August, 1970
8:30 A.M.
Alexandria, Egypt
The Pieces of Eight schooner.
Princess Cyneera walked causally on deck with her guards, Noor, Kasim, and Raj. She smiled at the family, "Good Morning, everyone." The family sat at the breakfast table on the deck, they still stared at her beautiful features, though by now they should be used to her beauty. She didn't think of herself as beautiful though Khan always whispered that she was, whenever they kissed. She had an exotic look, with a light, warm, tawny tone to her skin. Her large doe-like brown eyes highlighted one of the most perfect faces anyone would ever hope to look upon. Her coal black hair hung past her tiny waist, it shone like the moon might reflect off the ocean. She was five foot eight, slim, with long legs and a regal bearing of the princess she truly was.
Sabin, Khan's brother, handed a mug of coffee to all four of them, "Sit please. We need to have a family powwow. Cyneera, Khan left last night to infiltrate into your old home country to see if you should be reinstated as his oath to you and your deceased father requires of him. If he decides it's too dangerous or wrong for you then it frees him, honor intact, to marry you which is what you both want. He also wants to get Jabar, your Saluki and Nuha, your falcon."
Cyneera's eyes widened at Sabin's news. Before she could open her mouth to speak, Sabin leaned on his hands as he stood at the head of the table "I know you'll want to go after him to save him as the seer predicted. Mark will be here in fifteen minutes with Anthony in the helicopter. Anthony wants to sail back with Erin. They haven't been able to be together for a couple of weeks since he's been so busy with Luc's export businesses. I know Mark will fly all of you to Riyadh. We have packed medical supplies. including a poison antidote. There's food and here is a good amount of cash from all of us, split it between you for safety." Sabin drew a breath and continued looking intently at Cyneera "I want to know if we can get anything else you need, just ask us, we are family. I know you've been trained to handle anything on your own, but more is always better than one, anything to help you be successful."
Cyneera smiled at her large adopted family "I knew when I woke something was wrong. Yes, I will go after him. My guards will come with me. We've already purchased Bedouin robes and boots. Our clothes are packed, since we didn't know when we would need them, like the seer predicted. This is wonderful, the way you all have supplies ready for us, we appreciate it very much. Can you show us how to use the poison antidote? We will have to know where to administer the injection. All four of us need to understand in case of emergency."
Sabin opened the bag, showed them the vial, syringes then where the 2 cc mark was on the syringe. Michael held his arm out so Sabin could point to the muscle to use for the injection.
Cyneera nodded seriously at her large adopted family, "We will bring him back, thank you all." She looked to her guards, "Go change into the robes and boots, meet me back here in five minutes." As the guard bowed low to her, she said, "Stop, no more bowing my faithful ones, I'm going to try to pass as a younger boy with you as my friends, now go."
Cyneera turned to Sabin "Please cut off my hair, I have to pass as a boy, since my life may depend on it. My hair will grow back again."
Sabin nodded in agreement, he went to get a pair of scissors while the family sat in shock. He quickly cut off her waist length hair, handing it to his wife Tabari, "Braid this. Keep it for Cyneera to show her children in the future." That statement made Cyneera turn to smile at him. Sabin finished his hair cut by making Cyneera's hair shorter here and there so it had a jagged unkempt appearance.
The guards ran back dressed in the robes and boots. They stopped short in surprise then smiled their approval at the short haired Cyneera.
Noor came forward "I will name you Serkan, it means warrior, since that's what you are, my princess."
They all heard the helicopter as it circled the schooner once, then went to land on the wharf's helipad.
Sabin gently pushed Cyneera forward, "Go, shower quickly or you will itch from the loose cut hair. Change your clothes while I talk to Mark and Anthony."
Sabin hurried to make sure Mark didn't leave. He told him what he needed and why, as they walked back to the schooner, and the family still seated at the table. Once on board, Anthony grabbed one of the proffered mugs of coffee, as he stared at the long black braided hair in Tabari's hand.
Erin ran forward to hug Anthony. He held his wife tenderly in his arms and kissed the top of her head and whispered something in her ear. Over the top of Erin's head he looked at Sabin. He shook his head then grinned, "I take it Cyneera had you cut her hair to disguise herself."
Cyneera walked up, dressed in Bedouin robes, her short ragged hair wet "It will grow again, Anthony." She hugged Sabin, "Thank you, I'll bring him back." She turned and reached out to hold her sister Tabari tight in her arms, "I love you, my sister. Don't worry, remember what the seer said." Cyneera looked up at Mark, "Are we ready to fly?"
Mark grinned, "Serkan, our new little warrior, we are ready." Noor nodded and the other guards grinned widely.
Cyneera laughed, "I'm going to have to get used to my new name. She faced the whole family "We will see you in two to four weeks, give or take a few days. Thank you, we love all of you." She whirled on her heel to follow her guard as they carried the supplies and personal bags toward the chopper. Cyneera felt glad to be doing something instead of waiting for something to happen.
Uncle Patrick stood, "She is quite a woman. Serkan fits her right now, she's definitely in warrior mode. She will save him, the seer was right. I almost feel sorry for the enemy, have you ever seen her sword fight? She's unstoppable, Khan taught her well. She had to be excellent in all of the arts of fighting with the intrigue that surrounded her. As a Princess, she could never relax. She was always on guard for a threat or attack. All we can do is stay positive and pray for them."
Erin, as the captain of the schooner, looked around at all the worried faces "Let's sail, we'll feel better when we get to the resort, Luc and Skye will meet us. They won't believe what has transpired in the last twenty four hours."
Anthony came up behind his beautiful redheaded wife, "Erin, yes they will. Luc once told me that he watched Khan and Cyneera skirmish at his home on the front lawn early one morning with the fog swirling around their black robed figures. Cyneera won the skirmish and they weren't playing. Luc said it was unbelievably surreal."
The family crew busied themselves with sailing the schooner. A little over two hours later at the resort, Luc and Skye met them when they docked. Once on board Luc grabbed a coffee while Skye chose a mint tea that Sabin offered.
Skye looked around "Where are Khan, Cyneera and her guards?"
Luc looked over at Sabin "Did he leave? He told me he thought the time was right."
Sabin nodded at Luc and explained what transpired, "I have faith in the seer's predictions, there will be injuries but they will make it back. We need to be ready to take over, to help them when they arrive tired or injured."
Luc was silent for a moment "Well, if he does get into trouble, there is no one better than Cyneera and her guard to rescue him. I've seen them in action in Muscat. She can throw a dagger accurately at thirty feet or more. She is an expert at a bow and arrow. She taught my children to use bows when she stayed with us. I don't know for sure, but I wouldn't doubt she is quite capable with rifles and pistols too. She is a beautiful human lethal weapon. I hope they aren't overpowered by being greatly outnumbered. She can handle any situation but that. I know Khan will call me if he can. We can only wait in good faith. My gut feeling is that they will have a lot of trouble but will handle it like the professionals they are."
Chapter 5
Our hardest lesson is seeing perfection in
the imperfect nature of the world
Cyneera talked with Noor, Kasim, and Raj on the flight from Egypt. They were all in agreement to go to Raj's younger brother's home at Sudair. Raj knew his brother Hisham would help buy camels and supplies for them, so not to raise suspicion. Sudair lay between Riyadh and Buraydah which would put them closer to their destination of Buraydah.
Raj helped guide Mark to find Hisham's home in the stark dry desert. Excitement composed of many elements, not the least of them fear, ran through Cyneera and the guards in the realization they would soon be in action. The seer's predictions were coming true, again.
Mark settled the helicopter down slowly a short distance from the house to keep the dust to a minimum while Hisham came out of his house, puzzled as to what was going on. Raj yelled out in excitement when he jumped from the helicopter then ran to Hisham with his arms open in happiness. Raj wrapped his arms around a stunned Hisham to enfold him in a strong bear hug.
Tears of joy ran down Hisham's face as he lifted Raj up in a returned hug, "It's so good to see you my wonderful brother. I see you have everyone with you as always." Hisham went with Raj to greet Cyneera, Noor, and Kasim. He hadn't seen them in many months, since the death of Cyneera's father, Sheik Barbaros.
Raj introduced Mark to Hisham, then explained that Mark was an exceptional pilot for Luc's business, but also a close wonderful, personal friend. They all walked together into Hisham's cool home to sit in the traditional circle as they drank hot, very strong, very sweet coffee, then ate a delicious lunch, the main dish was roasted gazelle.
Raj filled Hisham in on Khan leaving and why, then Cyneera explained, "I will be called Serkan now. I must try to pass as a young boy traveling with friends. It will be safer for all of us if I'm in disguise."
Hisham said, "I would be happy to go to buy the camels and purchase all the supplies. I know I can accomplish it without raising suspicion. Give me a list of everything you'll need then I'll go to get everything in the morning."
Cyneera gave Hisham the list with the money but Mark spoke up "Cyneera, let Luc and I pay for this. You need to save all your funds for any emergencies" He handed Hisham a large roll of bills. Cyneera nodded in acknowledgment of Marks' wisdom. Hisham returned the money Cyneera had given him, she carefully hid it on her person.
After lunch Mark lectured all of them to be careful. He told them to make sure to call him for pickup. "Anytime, anywhere, just get the word to me. It may take me a while to get to you, but I'll get there." He said his goodbyes then took off for Muscat.
The next morning Hisham left at dawn. He returned in the early afternoon with all the required purchases including several dirty brown camels. Cyneera counted the camels, she realized there was one camel too many. "We have an extra camel."
Hisham grinned, "You don't think I'm going to stay home while you have all the fun, do you? I've been bored to tears here with nothing to do. You need me to stay at camp, have food ready for you then do the wash just like a normal camp. We will camp just Northeast of Buraydah at a small little known oasis I know of there. It's totally safe because of the grove of Graf trees, which keeps it hidden from any passerby. I found it when I trained the Sheik's camels and have often camped there overnight."
The guards laughed as they each slapped him on the shoulder. Noor looked to Cyneera for the nod which she gave with a shrug then a wide grin, "Why not, it will be like the old days, welcome Hisham."
They left before dawn the next morning with Hisham in the lead since he knew all the shortcuts and the nearest oasis in the ever changing desert. They traveled quickly and quietly through the desert, keeping off the main travel routes, concentrating on the smaller less traveled routes. They camped overnight in the lee of a large sand dune. Each person got a two hour guard duty stint, but lucky for the group, the night passed uneventfully.
After a brief breakfast of dried fruits and a biscuit-like creation of compressed grain, the group set off again. The morning passed as easily as the desert scenery. Early in the afternoon on the second day the sky in the distance was dark, yet gave off orange glow which meant a Haboob was blowing towards them.
Hisham looked back at everyone as they also noticed the approaching sand storm. They watched transfixed as the giant dirty grey billowing sand rolled toward them in an ever-moving shape like a clawing monster. Hisham yelled, "We need to get to the oasis over by the rocks now. Hurry, hurry!"
The wind lifted then swirled the sand making a tornado shape that stung their faces like a thousand needles as they raced behind the trees and large rocks. The camels started to roar loudly nuuuuuurrr as the storm started to hit. They quickly got the camels to kneel to form a circle around them. Fortunately these camels were well trained and knew what to do as they settled down with their backs to the oncoming wind. The howling wind roared in their ears, making them wrap their Ghutral's around their faces as a protection from the tiny particles of sand. The wind picked up in fury to scream eerily at twenty to thirty miles an hour as the guards pushed Cyneera into the pocket of camels then covered her. The guards used their bodies as human shields when they crouched down holding their large flowing Dishdashas in an interlocking tent-like cover to create a cocoon effect.
They could hear the wind screaming in rage as the heat became so intense it made beads of perspiration run down their faces and backs. The sand stung like bees as it hit the guard's backs, sticking to their soaked wet clothes and bodies. They knew the camels were fine with their long eyelashes and a third eyelash which would clean then wash the cornea. The camels slit shaped nostrils could close completely to stop sand from getting into the air passages. For this and other reasons, camels are the perfect beast of burden for the desert.
Everyone's muscles were tense, knotted tightly from fighting the intense wind that tore at and buffeted their bodies like rag dolls. The storm raged for over forty minutes shifting sand into massive Barchans or dunes. Finally, the storm traveled on revealing the sun once again. The piercing sun hit their hot wet bodies like a steam bath. Everyone sighed when they could breathe in clean, fresh air. As the group looked around they were not surprised to see the landscape had changed radically, this was a common occurrence in this desert.
Noor looked over at Cyneera as she tried to shake the sand from her hair and Abyia, "Cyn...Serkan, go bathe in the far end of the second oasis pool while we take care of the camels, then you can start our lunch while we bathe."
Cyneera experienced great pleasure when she immersed her body in the far pool, sighing as the cool water eased her body temperature, washed away the salt, sweat, grime, and sand. This is so refreshing that I hate to get out. I need to wash my Abyia then fix lunch so the rest can wash too.
After a few more minutes of lazing in the pool, Cyneera quickly washed out her Abyia and tromped back to camp in her damp clothes, still a nice respite from the heat. After the others left she quickly made a lunch of dates, more of the grain biscuit and dried goat meat strips. They ate lunch as the camels forged on their favorite food, Acacia trees then happily grazed off the ground on Tribulus and Dipterygium.
Hisham suggested, "We need to sleep for a while then travel in the cool of the night since I know where we are going; we can safely reach the desired oasis by midnight." They slept until four in the afternoon, ate then left by six in the evening. They rode steadily as they gazed at the brilliant night sky that was filled with huge twinkling stars above the vast empty desert. They reached the oasis by a little after eleven that night.
Raj and Hisham took the camels to hobble, then turn them loose to forage while Noor, Kasim and Cyneera erected the tents then started hot food.
They cooked gazelle steaks, with rice filled with spicy vegetables. Hisham served mugs of hot coffee and dates for desert then they washed all the cooking pans together as they told stories of past adventures. At the end of dinner, Hisham assured the group that it was not necessary to post a watch during the night so the entire group could get a good night's sleep. They were all relieved and happy to crawl into their tents to fall asleep as soon as their heads hit their makeshift pillows.
Chapter 6
Show kindness to others and keep them from suffering.
Khan reached the cave slightly east of Buraydah early in afternoon the second day after leaving the Dom camp. The large cave was cool and refreshing as he led the camel and the horse, he had named them Hidir and Seca respectively, into the interior antechamber that was approximately eighty by sixty feet. The limestone cave had a hall that led into a larger chamber that hid were two pools of fresh water formed by an underground stream, and a well-used fire pit. Apparently some members of the Dom used this cave often.
Khan checked the wooden trunks, pleasantly surprised to find plenty of supplies, ropes, cooking pots, dishes, everything he would need or want. I'll need to restock the trunks before I leave, for whoever needs it the next time, if I can.
There was a stack of firewood ready in the fire pit with extra wood stacked against the far cave wall. He looked up surprised as he noticed that a natural opening in the ceiling would let smoke filter outside keeping the air in the cave clean of smoke, yet would let it drift out slowly, in a manner that wouldn't give away that anyone was around. If someone smelled the smoke, they wouldn't be able to tell where it came from. He couldn't ask for a better place to hide.
Khan unpacked the food that needed to be kept cooler then carried all of it to the smaller chamber, where there was a recess in the wall. The recessed area contained an impressive looking stalactite which made it a cold niche that luckily was large enough to hold the food he happened to have with him.
Khan groomed Hidir and Seca then turned them loose with hobbles on to forage around the tree lined area that surrounded the cave. He organized the cave, fixed an area for Jabar, Cyneera's saluki then built a Wakir perch for Nuha. He unpacked the Burqa- (a falcon hood,) then put a kaff- (a falconer's glove) in his saddle pack. He packed treats for the animals, adding dried meat, nuts and flat bread for himself. Now I'm ready for my first encounter at the village.
Khan washed himself quickly using water from the pool, but he did not soak in the pool for fear that the walnut stain on his skin would wash off. He also wanted to blend in with the villagers and more often than not, they were covered in dust. He filled the tub to wash his clothes that he ingeniously hung outside on the bushes to quickly dry in the intense desert heat. He grinned in pleasure as he finally sat down to a hot cup of coffee, and rice with a fresh killed rabbit for dinner. He retired early in the evening to his makeshift bed.
Khan was up at dawn refreshed, full of energy. He realized, with a grin, that he had slept well in his new domain. He dusted dark colored Bedouin robes lightly with sand. He also dusted his face then mounted Hidir for his first excursion into the village, Baghor's domain. He was quiet in his arrival at the edge of the village. He entered on the first road then decided to get off Hidir to lead him so he could use the camel's body to cover himself from view. He was shocked at the condition of the people and the village. The people were thin and haggard, the village houses were falling apart. To hide his distress and anger over the situation he pulled his gurtera closer around his face and bent his head towards the ground. He added a shuffling limp to the picture so he wouldn't stand out amongst the wretched looking villagers.
Careful to keep his head down, Khan looked slowly over to his right, then ahead at Cyneera's old home. He saw trash blowing around as a general air of neglect hung like a dark cloud over the once beautiful palace. He shook his head in despair. I'm glad Cyneera can't see her home and village like this. I know it would hurt her. She always made sure the grounds and palace were kept spotless. She would be enraged at the condition of her people. This makes my decision harder. It's obvious the people need her, or someone that cares about them.
Khan's head shot up when he heard Baghor's voice scream as a party of men rode out of the place gates, "I need all the salukis and falcons. We have to get more meat for the big party tonight when we entertain the women."
Baghor brazenly rode out onto the road with his eight men as the excited salukis surrounded them. Each man had a hooded falcon on their right wrist as they wheeled their horses around to show off while they laughed and shouted.
Khan saw Jabar as a man drug her out by a rope then unhooked her. She was thin, scarred with cuts all over her body. She promptly cowered then lowered her sparse body down in the dirt as she refused to follow the hunting party.
Baghor looked back, screamed in rage at the handler on the ground. He galloped back down the road then uncoiled his long whip to cruelly lash Jabar on the back. Jabar whimpered from the pain, but still refused to move. She put her head between her paws as if resigned to another beating. She waited for another strike from the whip with ears pinned on her head in forlorn despair.
Baghor looked at the handler, "I want you to take her out then kill her slowly. I don't ever want to see her again, dead or alive." He laughed as he wheeled his horse hard then drove his spurs into its sides. Baghor's rage made the blood flow red at the horse's ribcage as it whinnied then bucked in distress while they galloped to catch up with the men.
Khan moved quickly, realizing he needed to think then act on the man's greed to get Jabar from him. He reached the handler, "Sir, please don't kill her, I have a crippled daughter that needs a pet to keep her company. I will pay extremely well for her. I'll take her out of here immediately and everyone will think that you killed her."
The handler looked around him quickly and indicated Khan should follow him. Khan walked with the handler into the shade of the flower covered wall behind a tree. The handler looked at him expectantly, Khan reached into his robes to bring out an offer of money that made the handlers eyes pop in greed.
The handler's mouth salivated as he spoke low "She's yours, hide her, get her out of here, quickly." He grabbed the money out of Khan's hand then shoved Jabar at Khan. The handler scuttled off towards the kennel obviously thinking to himself: He's a fool, she will never amount to anything, not even a pet.
Khan hugged Jabar gently to let her get his scent again while he talked in soothing tones to her then offered her treats. Jabar looked up at him with her large brown solemn eyes then cocked her head as if trying to remember his voice. She cried softly then licked Khan's hand while her tail moved slowly in recognition. Jabar's body started to wiggle in excitement as she barked loudly, which made Khan's heart clutch that she had been so abused. Thank god I got here this morning or she would have been killed. She is going to make people curious with her cries of excitement. I need to get her to the cave where she'll be safe.
Khan lifted her up into the basket he brought for this purpose that hung from the harness on the camel's saddle. He gave her the orders, "Lie down, stay," which she promptly did as he praised her. He mounted Hidir then pulled his gurtera around his features again as he guided Hidir, through the village towards the cave and safety.
Khan rode into the cave then pulled up sharply in surprise to find a young gypsy lad waiting for him.
The lad rose from where he had been sitting on the ground, as he held his hands out in front of him to show Kahn he wasn't armed or a threat. "I'm Pali. I'm Vadoma's nephew. She's worried about you all alone so she sent me to you. I know I look younger, but I'm twenty eight. I can cook extremely well and do a reasonable job in washing clothes. I have a pots and pan wagon I sell out of to use in the village if we need to go there in disguise. I also have Vadoma's gift in healing herbs so I can help if you get hurt like she is worried will happen. You can't send me back, so what is your first order for me to help you?" Pali grinned in a lopsided smile he knew he'd won the argument before it started.
Khan let go his rich roar like laugh, delighted, as he admitted to himself that Pali would be perfect to join forces with him. He would love to have company, as long as he stayed safe. He was a godsend to help Jabar with her injuries.
Khan reached in the saddle bag to pull out treats which he handed to Pali. Pali looked down at them cradled in his hand with a puzzled expression etched on his face.
Khan called softly "Jabar." In response, she lifted her cute little face up to peek timidly over the basket's edge. Pali gasped, "Oh, she is darling. What's her name? May I hold her, I love dogs."
Khan lifted her carefully up out of the basket then handed her to Pali "Pali, here is your first patient. Her name is Jabar. She is Cyneera's saluki that got left behind. Cyneera had to run for her life after Baghor killed her father, Sheik Barbaros. Baghor has cruelly abused her because she refused to hunt for him. He sentenced her to death today but I was able to buy her secretly from the handler. She can't go into the village or be seen. They would kill her immediately. She is hurt, starved and has been whipped severely. She desperately needs your healing herbs and care. She is a sweet wonderful dog that I would dearly love to see happy again."
Pali nodded, "I'll take good care of her, you'll see."
Chapter 7
Health is the finest prize, contentment the greatest wealth,
a good friend the finest companion.
Pali's eyes shone brightly as he tenderly took Jabar into his arms. He cooed softly to her as he fed her treats. He carried her up against his chest into the inner chamber to settle her on a rug by the fire pit then sat down beside her. He took his time in his examination of her. To help her relax while he looked her over and gently felt her body and limbs he sang a soft lilting gypsy song. Jabar relaxed and seemed to understand that Pali was a friend. At the end of the exam, he spontaneously leaned over to kiss her on top on her small head. "You're a beautiful girl. We will make your body and soul happy again, just you wait and see."
Pali served up some of the gypsy stew into a flat tin pan then put some chunks of bread on top and mixed it all together. He didn't want Jabar to gorge herself and then throw-up, so he offered her a small amount in the palm of his hand. Jabar ate quickly but daintily. "Good, in a little while, you can have some more. First though we will go for a little walk so you can relieve yourself. I need to see you walk so I can tell how injured you are. After that I'll start to heal your wounded body," He hugged her gingerly, being careful not to hurt her any more.
While Khan took care of Hidir, he noticed Pali had already taken care of his horse, Seca, along with his wagon horse. Did I just smell stew? Yes, I did. I bet Pali made their tasty gypsy stew for dinner. Great I'm starved. Vadoma, my adopted mother, you're wonderful the way you make sure I'm cared for. Thank you.
Khan walked into the small chamber, "Pali, you're a godsend. I could smell the stew in the antechamber. Thanks, I'm starved," Khan helped himself to a large tin full, then picked up a piece of bread to soak up the juices. He looked over at Jabar curled up against Pali. She looks better already since she's eating. I hope Pali can heal the rest of her. She can hardly walk from the terrible cuts of the whip. She looks like she's been burned also, no wonder she's so timid now.
Khan smiled as he watched Pali interact with Jabar. Her positive response to him made him relax on Jabar's problems. Now, I can focus on Nuha and the people. Sheik Barbaros had an older brother. I wonder if Baghor hunted him down and killed him too? I have a lot to do yet. I have to gather much information.
As Khan ate, Pali walked Jabar just outside the cave entrance, she struggled to walk even a few steps. He realized how lame and abused she was. He praised her repeatedly whenever she looked at him in an effort to get her totally trust him so he could doctor her wounds. After a few steps, he carefully picked her up and carried her back inside. He offered her a little more stew, she ate from his hand again. As Jabar sat watching him, Pali made her a bed beside him then raved over her when she curled up on it. He told her to stay so that he could get all the medicine, herbs and bandages from his trunk. He brought several packages back to the fire, heated some water then threw different herbs in the hot water. Wonderful aromas filled the cave. He chose a small clean cloth to dip into the herb water then cleansed all the wounds while he reassured and praised her.
Pali applied a healing salve on her back and leg cuts, then poultice wrapped her front right swollen leg. He carefully examined her back foot, horrified to find one toe on her back foot had been savagely torn off probably by one of the men's horses whirling around.
Pali showed Khan who became visually outraged at the abuse Jabar had gone through then leaned over to comfort her. Pali soaked the paw in a drawing herb mixture for twenty minutes then gently washed the mixture off. He applied the healing salve, and some herbs then wrapped the foot as Jabar curiously watched. Jabar licked his hand then wagged her tail. She seemed to know Pali was trying to help her.
Khan smiled at Pali with Jabar, "Pali, the villagers are starving. I need to get some food to them. Is there an oasis close where I can use a bow and arrow to shoot a couple of gazelle or Ibex? I thought maybe I could leave them at different homes in the middle of the night so the villagers could share them."
Pali thought for a moment then replied, "There is one a little north of here, around four fifths of a kilometer (a half mile,) give or take a little. We could get there in twenty minutes when all the animals are coming down to drink. I will go with you as my horse will carry a kill without spooking. If we both go now, we can be back here within three hours with no one the wiser."
Khan looked worried "Pali, I can't have you in danger."
Pali grinned at Khan "Don't worry. I'll stay out of sight. Will Jabar stay here if you command her?"
Khan walked over to Jabar then kneeled down to hug her, "Jabar, stay. Stay! He gave the hand command which was a soft wave of his hand in front of her face.
Jabar licked Khan's hand then happily curled up on her rug to sleep.
Khan reached down to pet her "Good girl. He turned to Pali, "Let's go. I will sleep better tonight knowing we've fed some of the people."