Lion, Tiger, Bear I 95 They battle hard, but to my mind theyre romantics mostly, and I heard their hearts arent really in the fight. She inspected the action and barrel in Seaforth Highlander fashion. Dont they ever clean these things? Anyway, I think you caught a lucky break. Nice job. The three of them sat by the fire and Gwafa haggled with the two Tuaregs he met before. They were hoping for more accurate German Mausers, but the Eye-tie rifles will suffice. The women prefer donkeys for travel anyway. He says one old camel in trade, but plenty of food, salt, and water, ieaucouf .That is the best I can do, madame. His name is Udad. Trust in Allah, they say, but tether your camel. Bea looked the old camel over; he blubbered, deeply gurgling as if he had a mouth of molasses, his drool soiling her robe. She wiped. Ugghhh, hell do. Look, I know its a disappointment, but Im responsible for your lives. No tank theft. Well take shifts and travel by night. I think this slobbering Udad trek is best given the shite odds. Discretion being the better part of valor n all. Well depart at four in the morning while its still dark. Make sure theres cheese in the deal; its delicious beyond compare if a bit salty. Eating fresh dates, Gwafa relented. I must agree with your decision, but with great regret. I desperately want to drive a big tank before I die someday. Takuta, sullen, said: For the record I disagree with your decision, but.. .youre in charge, mum. Sorry chaps, for the best. No moon tonight. Get some rest; thats an order. Bea got up and wandered a hundred meters to the west of camp to view the stars away from the campfire light. In the desert, the skies were crystal clear. At a hundred yards or so distant she sat, gazing upwards, the golden orange sunset all encompassing, slowly transforming to purple and light blue. She searched the heavens for her favorite star in Orions ‘Belt.^ndam. Gwafa unveiled his face and pointed as he sat. T worry. Lets keep one eye on her. You sleep first, fisherman. Takuta laid down in a soft, sandy spot. Cheers, mate. Us Kiwi diggers never get a chance at some real excitement, just sandy trench death an boredom. Shes an odd one for sure, a ruddy charlie, maybe even a coward. Blue light painted his concerned face. Who is not odd? Look around you. Non. She is no coward…that I am sure. Youre wrong, mate.