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The desert road was a string of ancient signposts along a path of packed sand and hard clay The ever-present hipped hot sand over the poor The sun heated the sand to the point that it burned even through their sandals But for all that, the nie’Sharu, marched without complaint Jardir looked at them and was proud

It quickly became clear, however, that Abban could not keep the pace Lathered in sweat, his li, and he stuered into Esam, who shoved him violently into Shanjat Shanjat shoved hihed as Abban spat sand fro his spear against his shield

Jardir wanted to help his friend to his feet, but he kneould only make matters worse "Get up!" he barked instead Abban looked at hi Abban a kick for his own good "Eet up, fool," he said in a low, harsh voice, "or you’ll end up khaffit like your father!"

The hurt in Abban’s eyes cut at him, but Jardir spoke the truth Abban knew it, too He sucked in a breath and got to his feet, stuain began to drift to the back of the line, frequently bu shoved about Kaval, ever watching, took note and moved up to walk next to Jardir

"If he slows our march, boy," he said, "it is you I will take the strap to, for all to see"

Jardir nodded "As you should, Drillrunted and left it at that

Jardir went to the others "Juriet on the carts," he ordered "You’re fresh fro pavilion, and not ready for a full day’s er in Jardir’s face "I’-eater’s son can’t keep up!"

The words were barely out of Jurirabbed Juriainst Jurio limp lest Jardir break his arm, and the throw landed hi hard as he put his foot on Juri on the cart because your Nie Ka coet that again at your peril"

Juried to nod, and he gasped air desperately when Jardir released the hold "The da commanded that you walk farther each day until you are at full strength," Jardir lied "Toer" He looked at Abban coldly "Both of you"

Abban nodded eagerly, and the two boys headed for the carts Jardir watched the for Abban’s swift recovery He could not save face for hi at him, and snarled "Did I call a halt?" he demanded, and the boys quickly resumed their ht back up

Night came, and Jardir had his nie’Sharum prepare the meals and lay bedrolls as the da circle When the circle was ready, the warriors stood at its peri outith shields locked and spears at the ready as the sun set and the demons rose