The ride down was gusty, but not strong enough to push me off track. I heard some voices as I got towards the bottom, and then looked down. Some shepherds were relaxing near my landing point and I was afraid I might land on one of them. ?Watch out,? I called. They just looked at me and laughed. One of them joked, ?Our prayers have been answered. Allah has sent us a beautiful virgin.?

When I got to the bottom, I lost my balance and fell on my back. The sharp rocks hurt and I banged my head, too, but the helmet protected me. None of the three men came to help, but as I stood up they approached. I took off my helmet to see them better and shook my hair loose. Perhaps they would recognize me and leave me alone. I glanced up to see when Sensei would arrive, but he hadn't started coming yet. ?Who are you, and what are you doing here?? I asked firmly. They laughed.

?Who are you, an angel from on high?? one of them inquired as he started examining my rope.

I yanked the rope out of his hand. ?I am from the President's palace and you are trespassing on the President's land.?

He turned to his comrades and mocked me, ?We seem to have taken a wrong turn, my friends. We have stumbled onto Saddam Hussein's land, and this must be his queen.? He bowed very deeply, overdoing his show of humility, and, while he was prostrate, he grabbed my rope again and pulled it backwards, making me once again tumble on my back. I tried to unfasten the clips, but being too unfamiliar with my gear I found myself tied down by my own equipment. Again, I looked up, hopeful that my teacher would slide down to my rescue, but nothing.

?Well, your Majesty, let us see what kind of a queen you truly are.? Two of the three attackers grabbed my arms, while the apparent leader stood over me. I struggled to roll away, but with my harness being used against me, it was hopeless. To distract him for a moment, I smiled seductively.

Find out in this brand new, action packed novel from Daliyah Hanin. In Saddam's Spies,Ms. Hanin has created a gripping masterpiece with a new adventure on every page.Beware, though, once you pick up this irresistible tale of historical fiction about Saddam Hussein's evil regime circa the Gulf War period, you might as well cancel all appointments,prior engagements, and even routine activities. Once you begin reading the adventures of Fatima Atik, Saddam's niece chosen to be an Iraqi spy,you'll be hard-pressed to put it down, From the website.......