Chapter 4
THE FORT IS SILENT
While the Arab stands staring bewilderedly at the newcomer, the officer approaches and stops before the sheikh. “I am Captain Gaston Lefevre, of Fort Laval,” he says again.
“But, but, you refused my demand. You first raised the white flag and then you hoisted the Tricolour again,” Feisan says, taken aback. “What is going on here? Is this a ruse or what?”
Lefevre wipes his sweaty face with a handkerchief. “Is my daughter safe?” he asks, his voice trembling slightly.
“Your daughter is still safe,” Feisan answers. “For the time being, at least.”
“May I see her?”
“Not before this whole strange phenomenon is cleared up, Capitaine. You had better speak, and speak the truth,” Feisan replies, sinking back onto the cushions.
Lefevre looks down at his hands, appe
