The Prouds; A Novel

(LAITHTAHER) #1

  • Laith Taher 13


As he entered his house, he was seen by Hammond,
who had light black hair and black facial hair. He also had
slightly full body. He was surprised, seeing a woman with
Milton, for it did not make sense for him that Milton
bought a slave or got married while the tribe was preparing
for war against King Matthew.
Milton went to his house and after a while headed
alone to Hammond’s house.
“Where have you been? And who is this woman
you brought?” asked Hammond.
Milton replied, “I was in Cintana.”
Hammond frowned, wondering what would make
Milton go to the capital of their enemy, whom they were
about to go to war within a matter of days!
Milton lied, “This is a slave who impressed me by
her beauty, so I bought her and brought her with me.”
His friend asked with disapproval and curiosity,
“And what were you doing in Cintana?”
Milton replied smartly, “What I like about you
most, Hammond, is that you know politics and listen to
reason, which distinguishes you from the rest of the tribe
who are led by fervor.”
His friend asked, “What does this have to do with
you going there?”
Milton replied, “I went there in order to ask the king
what he wanted from us, so that he would not fight us. All
he wants from us is to join his army in battle and pay him
an annual tax. Will you convince your father to accept that?
We are only a tribe and we cannot fight a huge army of a

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