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 which he invariably adhered left behind his onset, rapine and blood and desolate ruins, blazing homesteads and towns, the greatest number of dead and mutilated and the widest rivers of conflagration. He outdid Peta with his forceful intrepidity. In front of his tent every night there were twice as many fresh human heads as in front of any other warrior’s. But Peta did not envy his cool cynicism or his crimes. With his faculty for organizing great masses of men and his capacity for far-reaching combinations in managing huge armies at battle and conducting strategic treks and attacks, in one long series of victories, he felt far superior to Burunda. Therefore he willingly allowed Burunda to take the initiative in the front lines of the most dangerous battles, holding him in check like a heavy iron maul and then letting him go into the battle with his contingent of blood-thirsty Turks at the crucial moment to finish the conquest.

“Of course, brother Burunda!” replied Peta.

“Let me conduct my legion of ten thousand over the Tukholian trail while you take the Duklan pass. When we arrive at the Hungarian side, I will at once strike at the strongest Duklan fortresses, rid them of those who guard it and so make clear the way for you.”

Peta stared at Burunda in amazement for this was the first time that killer had uttered words of such clear wisdom. Burunda’s plan was a good one, though bold, and he was the right man to carry it out.

“Very well,” replied Peta, “We’ll do as you say! Choose your men and start your march the first thing in the morning.”

“Please permit me to make a suggestion also, great Behadir,” said Tuhar Wolf.

“Please do!”

“Since you have decided to send a part of your army along the Tukholian trail and, because of its narrowness even I would not advise sending all of your army through it, then allow me