Umslopogaas challenged them, and they saluted him, but
he saw that they were worn out with battle and journeying, and knew
little of what they saw or said. Then he, Galazi, and Nada and passed
through the opening on to the plain beyond.
Here the Slaughterer and the Lily bade each other farewell, while
Galazi watched, and presently the Wolf saw Umslopogaas return as one
who is heavy at heart, and caught sight of the Lily skimming across
the plain lightly like a swallow.
"I do not know when we two shall meet again," said Umslopogaas so soon
as she had melted into the shadows of the night.
"May you never meet," answered Galazi, "for I am sure that if you meet
that sister of yours will bring death on many more than those who now
lie low because of her loveliness. She is a Star of Death, and when
she sets the sky shall be blood red."
Umslopogaas did not answer, but walked slowly through the archway in
the mountain side.
"How is this, chief?" said he who was captain of the guard. "Three
went out, but only two return."
"Fool!" answered Umslopogaas. "Are you drunk with Halakazi beer, or
blind with sleep? Two went out, and two return. I sent him who was
with us back to the camp."
"So be it, father," said the captain. "Two went out, and two return.
All is well!"
CHAPTER XXVII
THE STAMPING OF THE FIRE
On the morrow the impi awoke refreshed with sleep, and, after they had
eaten, Umslopogaas mustered them.
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