In the midst of the raging desert heat, Kali could see the approaching army.Their formation was large in size and circular, almost moving like a swarm oflocusts. They were systematic, as if each step was calculated in terms of advancedmilitary strategies. For now, his spyglass was affording only a very limited degree ofvision. He could see the soldiers holding shields and spears at the outer flanks ofthe formation, wearing heavy helmets and metal pads over their entire bodies.How will I do this?Thousands of plans raced in his mind, to defeat his rival’s retinue of soldiers,but he lowered his spyglass, handed it over to his general Koko, and made his wayto the tent. He passed the dozens of bulls he had brought over from the north toaid in his battle, but he was yet to figure out how.The mahogany table inside the tent was placed in the centre, with maps andfigures crowding the top of it. The lamp overhead burnt brightly, giving him themuch needed light. He was kneeling close and studying the map intently when heheard the voice of his general.“They are here, my lord.”“Damn,” Kali cursed under his breath.“Has Vikoko returned?”“Not yet,” Koko answered placidly.Kali wasn’t astonished that despite sending over Koko’s sister out in thedangerous fields to study the enemy’s methods and plans, Koko didn’t show anysigns of hesitance. They were bound by blood oath to Kali and whatever hecommanded would be executed by them even if it meant risking their lives.The tent flaps opened and he saw Vasuki—the blue-eyed tribal prince