The Eethlek boy lay under the soldier's sword, back on the ground, chest heaving.

"Don't kill him," said Turtle.

"My lady, please do not interfere." Lieutenant Rinsin of the Mosasaur slid off his travois. "What was this savage doing all the way out here with you? Where is Captain Ngarong?"

"My uncle is dead, Lieutenant."

Rinsin hissed as if burned. "What?" He spun around. "At the hands of this half-man - ?"

"No," Turtle grabbed his arm. "The ...