Central-west Algiers, Akelm Tribe.
The tribal chief Lazaz loudly urged his people to load bags of valuables onto the backs of camels. Not far behind him, a long caravan was herding hundreds of camels, slowly moving toward the western mountains.
Just then, Lazaz's son rode up, pointing north in panicked alarm, "Father, th-they're coming!"
Lazaz's whole body froze; he knew his son was talking about Hadiid's men.
He looked at the chaotic tribe—at least half of his people had not left yet, and his heart was wildly anxious.
Yes, although his messengers had returned with news two days ago, in this era with very weak organizational mobilization skills, it was impossible for all 8,000 tribesmen to evacuate in just two days.
Especially since many still clung to the hope that they could keep the meager belongings in their homes.
Only when Lazaz himself returned to the tribe did the evacuation speed up.
But after just half a day, those damned naval bandits arrived.
