** spoiler omitted **
Horatio frowns a little.
”Aye, well – the thing is… you’ve seemed down for a while, now. I had my own business to deal with, so I didn’t pay much attention to it, but Amen-set… she’s canny, and she talks to me about you a bit. That’s why I wondered what’s going on with you,” he says with a brief shrug.
”To be honest, I don’t know, but there’s something different about you for a while, it’s like… well, it doesn’t matter. But if you need some space and peace, that’s fine. Hell, if you want, you can swap out my cabin below with the lasses for a bit... They generally are pretty quite down there,” he says slowly, not certain where Rain wishes to be for privacy, and what space she’s looking for…
Her last comment catches him by surprise.
”Not human? No… she’s human alright; she’s not as skilled or as talented in some respects as other humans… but what she lacks without our amazing little feats, she makes up for with a stronger make-up than most humans typically have.”
He looks at her quizzically.
”You think she’s got some kind of weird bloodline, like maybe a sorcerer? That’d explain some of her powers; and she’s sure as hell as talented and charming as the few sorcerer’s I know,” he adds, his mind tacking to Dhaavan for a moment.
"Though to be fair, I don't know many sorcerer's that travel around with magic birds... well, except for Dhaavan, so maybe I'm all mixed up in this whole thing..." he says, somewhat uncertain.
”But I tell you what, I’ll start keeping my eye out for any oddities. If she does have some strange bloodline in her, it may manifest itself at an unusual time, kind of like a hardy warrior suddenly discovering he can shoot flames from his hands after a bit of experience and campaigning, simply because his blood has been awakened by battle or stress…”
”Anyhow, do what you go to do to take care of yourself, and I’ll see you in the morning. Like I said, if there’s anything else I can do to help you, just let me know,” he says with a tip of his hat.
”We’re all mates on the ship, and even though you and I don’t talk much, I’ll do what I can to help you… not to mention that… well, anyhow, the point is, if you need any help, I’ll help you any way I can; just so long as you don’t need me to dance again,” he says, trying to lighten Rain’s mood a bit with a somewhat clumsy joke.
She’s compassionate, and so thoughtful. I hope she doesn’t worry too much about Amen-set, though… I suppose she’d rather be with Nightstorm than bunking below, but hell - it was the only thing I could think of to give Rain the chance to be close to the girl and try to keep an eye on her and guide her better…
I hope I didn’t offend Rain by suggesting she sleep down with the girl, but I didn’t want to tell her what to do; we’re all free men on this ship.
Ah hell, I don't know what to do half the time anyhow...
Well, it doesn't matter, Rain probably won’t do it, but it would give her the chance to keep an eye on the girl if she does, and I know Rain’s clearly worried about Amen-set’s being darker and spending so much time with me. Else why would she be so upset now?
He looks at her, her face upset and her eyes like the sea thinking a moment about the brief haiku he spoke of a moment ago.
”I don’t have the poetry to tell you how special you are Rain,” he says somewhat tentatively, his eyes soft.
His face suddenly catches and he curses himself inwardly for likely offending her with his stupid comment.
She’s already upset, and she in love with someone else. Saying stuff like that to her will only make things difficult for her, you know that. So just do what she asked and let her have some peace, that’s all.
”Right, well,” he says, trying to cover any awkwardness ”I guess I’ll let you go, then... Please take care of yourself... and if there's anything I can do for you, just let me know, okay?” he adds watching her a moment, curious to know if she has anything else to say before she leaves.
At some point during the afternoon, Dhaavan tracks down Amen-set where they can talk privatly.
** spoiler omitted **
Amen-set looks completely cool, calm, relaxed and poised, her face impassive and cold.
She looks around, to see that you are in fact alone and turns to Piper and politely dismisses the Halfling to talk to you formally and in private.
When you are completely alone, and no chance of witness, she places her hands on her hips and stares at you for a moment.
Then, her stern face melts into a huge grin and she throws her arms around you and embraces you somewhat aggressively, her lips pressing hard against yours.
As she kisses you hard on the mouth, she breaks apart for moments to speak.
"I am so proud... you did so well... you are wise.... now you have power... oh you have made me proud... very proud," she growls passionately through the kissing.
After a moment, she breaks apart, and looks up at you with a very pleased expression on her face, her arms resting on your shoulders.
"Now, I will explain why I am so pleased... so that you know my mind better, and I shall offer my advice to you, if you will take it, and I pray it will guide you better," she says, her face still happy.
"I was not meaning to hurry our talk. That was not what I was saying. I was only hoping to have some time alone once I was back on the Lady. Most of the crew would have come to shore except for the few on watch, so my duties would be minimal and I could lay my head down and rest until the evening. I always imagined my life on Tempest Cay was hard, working for my grandfather and his men. Yet here I find myself yearning for those simpler days. Perhaps I miss home, perhaps I miss being around family and strong bonds which unite people. You are correct -- my heart is heavy and my spirits low. I hope to restore some balance in this time on the ship without the others around. I prefer the water to towers high on hills." Rain attempted to smile and it worked somewhat. "As to my lodging on the Lady, I think I will keep to Var...the Captain's cabin tonight as he is staying on the Rock. As to tomorrow and the days that follow, I do not know. But know it is not because I do not like Amen-set or I fear her. Quite the contrary, the girl makes me feel as though I am extraordinary and powerful -- she has more faith in me than I have in myself and it is humbling. I will spend some time with her and Piper tonight -- I will organise a late supper for us top deck under the stars. I will not forsake either of them, fear not."
Rain distractedly rubbed the side of her face, where the strands brushed and tickled her skin.
"I believe there is much power in Amen-set's blood. I have a feeling she could match Dhaavan, if she tried. I conclude she holds herself back for many reasons, one being she does not want to best Dhaavan or repel him with her powers. From the exchanges between Amen-set and I, there is still much more we have to learn of her abilities and powers. I often wonder why she is secretive but I respect her not to push for answers. There will come a time when she will tell us or show us. I will patiently teach her the ways of the citizens of the Shackles in the meantime."
She noted Flynn's jest regarding the dancing and would have laughed had she the energy and spirit to do so. Rain smiled in hopes he understood she comprehended its light-hearted meaning.
When Flynn spoke to her of how special she was, Rain inwardly withdrew, not out of disgust or anger but because she wished Variel felt that way about her, or told her, but he never did. "You are kind, Flynn. I have not felt special in a long time." She felt the film of tears floating/shimmering on the surface of her eyes and inwardly braced herself so they would evaporate and not fall down her cheeks.
"I will do what I can for Amen-set, you have my word. She has proven to be a devoted friend and little sister. I will be friend and sister to her."
Looking down at the water below, Rain imagined swimming in its depths. She had not swum for pleasure since leaving Tempest Cay.
"What are you plans for tonight, Flynn?"
After the embrace, she sits down with you comfortably and begins to speak to you rapidly and discretely.
”This is my advice to you, myr,” she says quickly.
”This woman would be your wife; she is somewhat elderly and likely will appreciate a young man with vigor and passion on the night of her marriage.”
”You must be like this to her; enthrall her with your lovemaking, be exciting, enrapture her; make it so that she does not forget you, and wishes to shower you with many gifts and favors.”
”Take a name of high renown from her lineage, if you can. Align yourself to this woman, and use the power that she gives you well.”
”We walk the waters with great steps; but without land to careen our ships, they will surely fail. She has given you this land to build upon, we must use it well.”
”Make her want to shower you with gifts, such as the glass and armor you received. Who knows? In time she may have other gifts to grant you,” she adds quickly.
”Soon you will be a powerful lord in your own right, this is a good starting point; do what you can to make it great,” she says with a bright smile.
** spoiler omitted **...
Horatio decides to relax a little, so he sits down more comfortable on the grass by her, propping his musket on a rock.
”Well, I know Amen-set will like that. She’s uh… she’s pretty taken with you,” he says after a moment, searching for the right words but failing.
”You know, one of the weird things about her is that’s she so damn sure of herself and thoughts… I doubt myself a lot, but she… she gets an idea into her head about what’s right or wrong, and that’s that. She pretty much sticks to her guns, er… she stays the course,” he says.
He ponders a moment, thinking for a while, not sure how to proceed.
”She thinks that everything in her life is dictated by her god; and that everything that’s going on is part of some divine plan. So, as her god’s pulling the strings, she sees Dhaavan as her true love; she sees me as a second father and she sees you as her sister… but not only that, well… she seems to think you’re some kind of spiritual avatar or something; at the least she sees you as the leader of the company,” he says the last somewhat awkwardly.
”Folks from back east… they believe a lot in this thing called “reincarnation” – some druids practice the power; but the idea that souls are immortal and will live beyond this body to come back to the world and meet with each other again in new bodies and continue to take to interact with each other... nothing like what I was taught, but she thinks there’s merit in it, and seems to think that you and her have known each other in another life as sisters, or something like that…”
”I told her you weren’t any spiritual avatar – no offense – but she just smiles and treats me like I’m a bloody infant who’s making up tall tales,” he says with a grunt.
”She says about you… oh hell, how does she put it… The ship moves by her hand; she is the one who gives the ship power. The Speaker of the Dead has become her guardian, she is aligned to the power of the gods; for they have chosen her for great things; by her hand the company moves forward, by her will do we advance with success… yeah; well, that’s what she said, not me,” he says, clearing his throat a little.
”But try convincing her otherwise, and you’ll just waste your time; but I told her that so long as she keeps those opinions to herself it won’t matter too much. But who knows?”
Horatio thinks a moment.
”Well, the thing is… she was an orphan from the desert. She never knew her real parents, and her mentors are mysteriously enigmatic. So she may not be trying to hide things on purpose, she may simply not know her true history…or her power potential,” he says thoughtfully.
Horatio clears his throat a bit.
”I don’t know… kind, maybe… I was just saying what I thought… you know, what was on my mind is all,” he says after a moment.
Seeing Rain’s tension, he’s sure he’s blundered again, that such comments will certainly upset Rain, as she’s in a relationship with Variel.
Something suddenly clicks in his head, though. She had started to call him by name, but suddenly referred to him as “captain”. This seemed to suggest she had put a barrier with the elf; but what was it, and why?
Up to now Horatio had merely assumed that Rain was nervous for Amen-set’s sake, and nothing else. Now he was not so sure…
”That reminds me, if you don’t mind me asking… is everything okay with you and Nightstorm? I, uh… I don’t want to pry, but you seemed kind of… well, I don’t know… I don’t know much about elves or women,” he says a bit uncomfortably, not sure if this was hard to talk about, or something that she might want to get off her chest.
”Anyhow, it’s probably none of my business, but if you want to talk about what’s going on, if you want to, tell me. I can listen pretty good,” he says, deliberately looking away from her so that he can give Rain the chance to decide without him staring or putting any undue pressure on her.
"Most Elves believe in reincarnation as natural creatures; those who die become animals in the next life, which then return as elves once more. Amen-set's explanation of how we have come across one another in another life is both interesting and strange. She has mentioned it to me before - once, late at night, on the deck as we watched the stars play in the heavens. We sat among the rigging, exchanging stories and song. I did not mind her version of reincarnation."
"When I mentioned the secrecy I was not passing judgement on Amen-set. And aye, perhaps she has no knowledge of her lineage and the great power flowing in her blood. But this can be dangerous, for what if it manifests itself and she is unprepared, as are we. I wonder if a seer could divine her past and destiny. Perhaps we may cross paths with one at the next port."
Rain doesn't take a seat but stands looking out across the expansive blue.
At Flynn's question regarding her relationship with Variel, Rain feels a little cornered for she does not want to offend Flynn with her lack of disclosure yet does not want to delve into her personal life with him. "Variel has pressing matters to consider and resolve, especially after this last assassin attack. During our respective long lives, our experiences could not be any different. And differences can sometimes turn into obstacles. That is all I am willing to say on the matter and I mean no offence, Flynn. I would keep my personal affairs to myself, if that is alright. But thank you for asking, and, offering your ear."
The gull's screech fills the air once more and she stares as it circles and hovers in the air.
"It is getting late and I would like to return to the ship before nightfall. I will make my way down to the docks and I shall await Amen-set and Piper there, if you would be kind enough to find them and advise them of where I shall be."
Turning around to look at the seated Flynn, "You and I have not always seen eye to eye. But I am a grateful for your kindness this day for I was truly in need of some. I bid you a good evening and I shall see you in the morning. Dhaavan's wedding day." Rain expels a soft sigh and remembers herself and gives Flynn a gentle smile before turning and moving down the hill on the makeshift stairs. The sooner I am on the Dread Lady the better. I am barely holding on.
Seeing that she is leaving, Horatio swings himself easily to his feet.
He looks at her for a moment and than nods.
Understanding her need for privacy, he doesn’t push the issue.
”Aye, I’ll let Amen-set know you’re heading out, she’ll meet up with you as soon as I see her,” he says.
He sees clearly the inner turmoil in her eyes which she tries to mask as she turns to leave.
”Hey, wait, hang on…” he says as she starts to move down the hill and he follows a moment.
Taking her in his arms he gives her a hug.
”Sorry,” he says pulling back a moment, looking at her, his eyes filled with concern for her, troubled by her pain ”It's just that… well, you just looked like you needed a hug, that’s all,” he says simply.
Flynn surprised her a second time with his unexpected embrace. Rain opened her mouth to speak but no words came. She awkwardly returned the embrace, too afraid that such demonstration of care would induce her to torrid tears.
The hue of Rain's turquoise eyes turn light to dark to muted, swirling with unexpressed emotions and confusion.
"I am grateful for the hug, Flynn. Thank you." The last word was a bare whisper as she turned and deftly made her way down the grassy, rocky path.
Why does Variel not take me in his arms when he knows I am sad or troubled? Why does he leave me alone to fend off the pain? Rain feels the tears fuller and beginning to slide down her face. She ashamedly wipes them away, hoping not to draw Flynn's attention. She cannot allow Amen-set and Piper to see her in such a state and she takes deep breaths as she walks all the way down to the dock by the shore.
The boat ride to the ship was quiet for the most part. Rain's arms move the oar and the rhythm takes her away from the present, the sound of the displaced water like a soothing melody.
Once they reach the Lady and climb aboard, Rain turns to the two other females, "I require some time on my own in the Captain's cabin. I do not want to be disturbed unless there is trouble or emergency I need to resolve. I will find you later this evening and we shall sup together if you are amiable to it?" After the girls' answer, Rain checks in with the watch and then makes quick strides to the cabin, unlocking the door, entering and closing and locking the door behind her. Neko was not in the room but that did not surprise Rain. The golden cat would return of her own accord.
Removing her weapons and boots, and pulling her shirt from her trousers, Rain lies face down on the cot and silently screams into the bedding. Then the tears fall in torrents, hard and hot, each one mocking her for stupidly loving an Elf who could not love her back because he listened to his mind and not his heart. She had shown Variel countless times her loyalty and love. She wore her heart on her sleeve even when her words were of a professional tone when she was at the helm and on duty. She cried for what was lost. She heard his plea for forgiveness but there had been no demonstration to show her that he did not want to lose her. Her mind understood he was a creature of logic more than emotion. Yet, she had a heart that yearned for a love that would lift her and rejoice in her. Flynn had called her 'special'; Variel had never uttered such a word to her. Variel was breaking her heart and he had made no effort to stop her walking away earlier and take her in his arms and show her his love and loyalty. No, he simply watched her walk away. The tears fell and she attempted to conceal their sound in the bedding. She needed this time to release her silent misery. She shut out the rest of the world for this short time. She had to comfort and nurture herself.
** spoiler omitted **...
Amen-set seems to sense intuitively that something is troubling you, but she says nothing on the matter.
Seeing you are dealing with hard emotions and that you struggle to keep your face impassive, she reaches out to you and places her hand on your arm, uttering a some soft words.
.
When you ask to be alone, she nods, her eyes hard and intent.
”None shall pass; or by the Great Father, they shall bleed for it,” she says, her eyes are on you, and they are fierce for whatever may have harmed you.
Then she stands post until you are wiling to talk.
[dice=Spellcraft (DC 17)]1d20+6
Spell cast - "calm emotions".
Once the last of her tears had been expelled and she felt dry and emptied, Rain lifted her head off the bed and sat up. The room had grown dark and night had fallen without her knowledge. She used her keen vision to find the candle by the bed and lit it, throwing a warm glow about the space. There on the hammock by her cot was Neko watching her with vivid emerald green eyes. "Hello, Neko." Rain's voice sounded hoarse from all the crying. Moving to the bowl and pitcher on the table, Rain poured some water and washed her tear-stained face, removing visible traces of her emotional upheaval. It would not do to have the others see her so beaten, especially not Amen-set. Drying the water from her face with some cotton towelling, Rain stands off the bed and says to Neko, "Time to head on deck and see what is going on. Some supper would be nice."
Rain unlocked the door and threw it aside only to find Amen-set standing guard by her door.
"Have you been standing at the door all this time, little sister? You did not have to go to all this trouble, but I humbly thank you for your vigilance and service." Rain extended her arm and with her hand gently squeezed Amen-set's arm. "Let us get some supper together." Rain's voice was still low and unusual and she had hoped it would not cause concern in Amen-set.
Neko followed closely behind, intently watching Rain.
Somewhat surprised by her kiss, Dhaavan rallys instantly and returns the kiss and adding a bite on the lip. He watches her as she speaks, smirking smile on his face, bemused and mystified by the girl. "I don't have power, not real power, power that actually matters. Not yet, but my new wife to be will certainly make it easier to get what I need", he tells her after their kiss. He then cocks his head as she begins to advise him, allowing a quizzical look to show as he wonders what Myr means.
Not recalling he makes a mental note to ask, but seems oblivious to the sentament. ouch...
"Well, I'm a fine specimen of a young man and have a silver tongue in more ways than one," he notes with a raised eyebrow, reminding her of their private evenings together on the Lady while Sejiro was at the helm. "So no concern about keeping our alliance and my future wife happy. And with this outpost, we'll soon be a force in the Shackles, much more powerful, and be able to strengthen our position here on the rock significantly," he muses, caressing her arm and she nestles close to him.
He takes some time to appreciate her affection, as he does revel in bein revered and her attentions suit him. he does ask "you used a word i've not heard before, Myr. What does that particular endearment mean?"
** spoiler omitted **
Amen-set’s eyes are intent and cold, and she is staring down the others with a fierceness that would kindle fire.
When you approach, she stands at attention hard, and salutes you with the shaft of her spear almost reflexively.
”It is so, senet! I have given oath of bond that none shall disturb you; I would not break that word,” she says.
Whatever Amen-set may be thinking, it is clear she is keeping her thoughts private until she understands how you are feeling. She does not wish to say the wrong thing, yet she also wants you to be comfortable.
”The goodly Halfling has prepared us a small meal, I hope it is fitting, senet,” she says somewhat briskly as Piper arrives with a small picnic basket.
She throws open the cloth and inside are some unusual foods.
Amen-set glances around the ship for a moment, than looks to you.
”When in port, I took the liberty of securing some foodstuffs to eat when we defeated the enemy of this island. I wished to provide you with something more unique, and more akin to your own homeland,” she says with confidence as she begins to get comfortable.
”These meals I have had preserved for some time; but I was made to understand that they are rare meals for the elven folk. I hope they will suffice?” she asks, watching your face, searching to see if it is alright.
There are various small clay jars, and several clay platters, which she quickly arranges, then Piper opens the first jar and takes a pair of tongs and draws out small dark green bundles.
”This is the salad for the meal; it is a type of kelp which has been pickled. It was then wrapped around small sea cucumbers, which I am told taste like somewhat tart “strawberries”,” she says, pronouncing the word somewhat uncertainly.
”To mellow the taste I have purchased this,” and she takes another clay pot and opens it.
Inside are small slices of a somewhat gray cheese, streaked with veins of coral.
”This cheese is made from the milk of the orca whale; for they produce milk as cattle do. The elves harvest it and make this cheese, I am told it is a very rare delicacy; it is very dry, and tastes somewhat like a strong… a… “brie” with mild flavors of “bleu cheese” in it….”
She places it gently on the plate.
”This,” she says opening the next bowl and drawing out long strips of thin gray meat ”is meat which is smoked. The flesh is Dire Shark; a very rare meat to procure, but it is rumored to be extremely potent in flavor; small bites of it, mixed with the cheese to mellow the flavor, are best, they say.”
She opens another bowl.
”This is the main course, which Piper prepared below. It is called “King Crab”. It is a very sweet meat, I am told. The shells are made so they are not hard; you may eat them whole.”
”And finally, to drink we have this,” she says holding up a flask.
”This is a hot drink; it is made of various leaves which are brewed… it is like a mulled tea, but there are some deep roots in it which have natural sugars that may be fermented. It is much like a thick brandy in texture, but it is darker, like a beer; it tastes like a deep red wine with hints of cloves and cinnamon,” she says, somewhat triumphantly at the presence of the wine.
Looking at you, she hopes that the food pleases you as she sets to with gusto.
After a few bites she takes a large gulp of the wine, then looks at you somewhat intently.
”Is your spirit at peace senet? I fear your heart may yet be troubled... What can I do to help you?” she asks in a matter of fact voice.
”Good,” she says beaming at you.
”You have done well; this woman – she is old, she will be impressed by your vigor; you must do well with her to ensure your success.”
She presses you down on the ground and draws her nails against your chest absently, they scratch like hard claws…
”Your power, I see it in mind, it is like a small flame, yet the flame is laid within the ships of the sea, and soon they shall rise to burn in your light,” she says thoughtfully.
”I see this in my mind; I know it to be true,” she adds with a shrug.
She turns and nips you hard at her neck a bit, draw a bit of blood.
”Ah – myr… it means “beloved”,” she adds simply, nestling in against you, pausing to lave the blood from your skin with the press of her tongue, then raising her blue eyes to look at you coyly.
”You taste like sulfur… but it makes me hot inside,” she says with a fierce whisper and a little growl in her throat.
Amazed at the array of exotic island food gathered and served by Amen-set and Piper, Rain forgets her woes for a moment and genuinely smiles. In a still-throaty voice, Rain responds, "What a marvellous feast you have set out. I am most surprised but pleased." There was so much food and Rain worried she would offend them with her diminished appetite. Misery could often do that, especially to her. But Rain would attempt to try a little of every dish set out.
Rain lifted the mug of hot, mulled tea to her lips and slowly drank, hoping it would coat her throat and restore her voice. She had never been a great crier (her grandfather considered crying undignified and weak), but today had been very hard on her emotions and it manifested into a storm. Her thoughts brought her back to Variel and her smile slipped a little and the worry returned anew.
At Amen-set's question, Rain could not lie to her. "No, it is not at peace, but I am attempting to turn the tides." Rain placed some of the sweet crab meat on a plate and put it before Neko, hoping the cat was pleased with such fare. Rain enjoyed the taste of the meat very much.
"Love can be a wave which can lift you high or crash you deep below the surface. Sometimes I do not understand it and the other who holds my affection. I need to find my way, little sister."
** spoiler omitted **
Amen-set nods, taking a slice of the smoked Dire Shark, she chews it thoughtfully, than drinks another gulp of the wine.
”I believe that "love" is the word poets give to describe the bond between those who the gods have fated to be together,” she says in a matter of fact voice.
”This destiny can be hard for some, yet the word love often acts as a way to cushion that path.”
She leans back and takes a slice of the cheese, swallowing it hungrily, then looks above at the darkened sky, seeing the bright light of a half moon.
”You are the leader of this ship and yet you forget first rule of sailing, I think, senet,” she says with a little chuckle.
”A good sailor knows to look to the stars; there they will find the answers, and they will find a way to be guided home,” she says gesturing with a casual wave of her hand.
”You say you wish to find your way, eh? Then look to the heavens for guidance, I think.”
”The stars are more than beauty in the dark; they are the offspring of the Great Father; for he has made them to show us the way,” she says, leaning back to look at them.
”There,” she says pointing to the moon ”You see the firstborn of the Great Father; by some called Khonsu.”
She smiles comfortably.
”In the ancient days they said that Khonsu was a traveler; a sailor of the Sea of Heavens; yet the stars showed him the way he should travel and he hearkened to it. In the time of the God Kings of the eastern lands he was shown his path and his purpose – namely: vengeance!”
She speaks softly, almost to herself.
”Then he was named the “Cannibal God” and also “He who lives on Hearts”. It is said he earned these names for he came to the realm of mortals to walk among us and slaughter any who would be the enemy of his lord; the Great Father,” she adds with a dreamy sigh.
”He feasted on the ka – the spirits – of those who stood as an enemy to the Great Father, he took their power from them; and those who he killed were men who had made themselves as gods for other men to worship,” she added, by way of explanation.
”In the land of the God Kings he walked; and in his hand was justice, and in his fist was iron. He slew those who would call themselves “gods” and threw down their high places. Those mortals who would become like gods felt his touch; and thus they drowned in lakes of blood. And so it was that he took back the divinity that men had tried to steal from the gods; so it was that he swallowed their essence and returned it to the gods. Thus it was that Khonsu fulfilled his destiny and restored balance between heaven and earth and brought vengeance on those who would blaspheme the gods...”
She turns and smiles brightly.
”So you see? Khonsu was like us, senet. He was a sailor, though his sea was the heavens above. Yet he was stirred in his heart by passion and he found his calling, and he did great things for who he loved best; fighting noble battles with those who would try to usurp the gods.”
”Surely you too will find your calling, I have faith in that. When you do, I know in my heart that you will do great things.”
She looks at the stars for a while, humming softly to herself.
”But that may not happen overnight. What is clear, though, is that you must find peace. It may take time, though. But between then and now, we can at least enjoy the beauty of the stars, eh senet?” she says with a smile, reaching to hold your hand gently in hers.
"I am 116 years old, little sister. My life has been spent on the ocean, looking up at the heavens, reading the stars, the sun. A Varisian goddess, Desna, was said to have built the heavens. She is considered the goddess of travel and journeys and since sailors spend much of them time travelling the seas, many prayers go out to her. She was a beautiful Elven woman with butterfly wings containing all the beauty of a clear night sky."
Rain's voice grows still and she simply looks at the visage of tiny pinpricks of light against the dark backdrop.
"In all my long years, I have never been in love until now. I was a maiden until I took Variel to my bed. I chose him. Yet his past is filled with many veils, secrets and his life and experiences have been very different to mine. He feels with his head and I feel with my heart. Opposite creatures. Still, I am drawn to him, desire and love him, yet he cannot understand his feelings for me as he has never made a decision with his heart. I feel invisible to him, forgotten at times. I do not like feeling this way, little sister. I would be openly wooed. I want him to rejoice in me, to love and respect me with a raging passion. When we are in bed, he is able to do this. When we are moving among the outside world, he cannot. He has asked for my patience and I have been patient to this point. I do not want him to take me for granted - I will not abide it. I wish he could see that I have a wise heart worth trusting in."
The conversation had grown heavy and Rain felt guilty for it. She is still young and I burden her with my troubles. And the man she loves is set to wed another. I do not know how she stands it.
"Elven religious ceremonies occur at night, under an open sky. We sing, dance, chant and all those in attendance join in. I miss such community. Yet, here, with you and Neko, I feel connected and I am grateful, under the same stars."
Taking a slow sip of her cooling mulled tea, Rain gently broached the subject of the sorceror. "Little sister, how do you feel about this upcoming marriage of Dhaavan to the Lady Agasta?"
** spoiler omitted **...
Amen-set does her best to pretend that she accepts your words. But she has not talent for guile. For any one else, she would make no pretense, but as she loves you, she is doing her best to keep those feelings silent.
In truth, she is a blunt sort; and has no qualms about speaking her mind and damning the consequences. The fact that she is holding her tongue, with effort, suggests that she recognizes enough that – in this matter – here opinions will not matter, and they will do nothing to help, and in fact, they may only wound you.
Sighing a moment, she considers you words about religion, and her mind tacks to her words about the God Kings.
”How can a god, or goddess, be elf? Elves are not gods; they are elves. Men are not gods; they are men. Some men have tried to be gods, as I said. Yet Khonsu feasted on their un-belief," she adds, glancing at the moon nervously.
She hears your comment about your age, and she cannot contain her emotions at that.
”You are one-hundred and sixteen? Oh, senet, what is that, eh?” she snorts, batting your arm somewhat playfully.
”You talk of years as if they mean age; and age as if it is computed in years,” she adds, looking at the stars.
”Years do not equal age; and age is not the same as years. Life is age, and age is life,” she adds, as if this makes perfect sense.
”A man alone in a room that never leaves who has been alive a thousand years – can it be truly said that this man lived? No, it cannot; for he has not lived but a day, alone in a cage.”
"Only life; experience - tasting of the world; only that can truly bring age to a person, no matter how many times they see the Great Father rise," she adds with a sigh.
She lays silently for a while, thinking on that last point.
”Besides, there are many things that walk this earth that are far more ancient than men or elves…” she adds, musing softly to herself, her mind tacking back to something, than she shakes herself from her distraction.
She seems confused by your sentiment, so she ponders your words; seeking your obvious subtle meaning that you are clearly veiling in a riddle.
Her eyes light up after a moment.
”Ah, perhaps what you mean is that you have come to taste life now more fully? That your life is more complete, and sense you have journeyed forth, you are now free to live life the better; and now you are truly alive? Yes; that must be it,” she says nodding as if there is no other possibility.
She listens to your words about elven wedding ceremonies with some interest, but not offering much, only thinking about it. When you mention Dhaavan, she smiles.
”I am well pleased for his marriage, senet. I told him so, and I reminded him to make sure he convinces this woman to be reward him for his vigor. She has given him great gifts already, but soon we shall see more, no doubt, if he performs well for her,” she adds with a smile.
”For me, the gods have made Fate. It is my duty to accept my destiny with courage and dignity, no matter where that path leads.”
”They have brought me that sorcerer; he is my man – it is so,” she adds in a complete matter-of-fact voice, as if debate was inconceivable.
”As he is my man, I am well pleased to see the success he earns.”
”Each glory he takes is one I share for love of him; marrying this woman allows him much glory and the road to fame and power, which I know he loves best,” she adds, her finger rising to trace little patterns in the stars absently.
”As his power grows and stature grows, he will gain honor. With that honor comes great status and reward. It is so!” she says with sincere pride.
”I am pleased, for the Great Father has given me a great destiny and has placed me in the center of mighty things.”
”You; my senet – you are the master of the ship and sea. By your word we sail; you command the waters and the ship.”
”My myr – my beloved; he is the one who commands the land. With my myr to my left, and my senet on my right hand, so I am provided for: land and sea.”
”To watch over all is the cunning of my hatey-a'. He is the one who uses the weapons which kill at range.”
”His hand kills those at distances. Your hand moves the ship. My myr’s hand commands the land; and I am left with the heavens to dominate,” she adds with pride.
Sensing your thoughts, she adds hastily – ”And yes, the one who is not… the one who took your maidenhead? He is a killer like my hatey-a'; but not like him, for he kills with steel, face to face, not at distance; and with sorcery, not science. Still; he kills well enough, and he gives you much pleasure when you mate with him; thus he is a good thing to have with you,” she adds.
”Ah, and you love him, too,” she somewhat hastily.
”This is good; for that means the more he kills, the more glory you gain by him. Glory and honor are good things. Be proud that the one you took as a lover is a skilled killer, as I am proud of the success of my myr, for soon he will be a lord of men,” she adds with a knowing smile.
”Each passing day they become more powerful; we shall not forget their talents, nor their success,” she adds with a smile.
Rolling over onto her stomach, she pops another piece of cheese into her mouth and eats it.
”Now; I am not overly worried about my myr and this woman, as you well know. But if I felt she brought dishonor to him; naturally I would kill her, but I do not think that will be much of an issue,” she adds easily with a kittenish stretch.
She turns back to you, leaning on her elbow and propping her head in her hand, she lays like that for a while, just staring at you.
”You are not only my senet but you are very good friend,” she says finally, her tone soft yet sincere.
”If you ever need help in a killing, I shall always be there for you,” she adds, giving you a happy smile so you know that she is both sincere and excited to travel with you.
Then she reaches over to scratch the golden cat gently behind his ears.
** spoiler omitted **
Seeing the cat's eyes narrow, Amen-set grins happily.
"Thou art a mighty beast, I warrant," she says in soft cooing voice, rubbing her fingers gently over the bridge of the cat's nose.
"I do not know if you have spilled blood either, but know that I see you also as a friend."
"If you ever have need of a killing; tell me - I will aid you in it as well."
** spoiler omitted **
He holds her tightly, and sinks his teeth into her shoulder, tasting her blood as well before leaving. "Well, my future bride wished to see me, so i had best make myself available and survey my domain of the coming year," he says with a smirk, licking his lips, leaving her a moment to heal her blemishes too distracted to heal his own, which will come back to bie him in the ass tomorrow when the bruising appears.
Rain remembered Flynn's earlier words of Amen-set's idea of killing and she felt she needed to clarify something before continuing. "Little sister, you cannot kill, or threaten to kill Lady Agasta. It would start a war between us and her people and set a precedent that we are untrustworthy in negotiation. If both she and Dhaavan hold to their word for a year, there should be no concern of dishonour. Amen-set you cannot take such matters in your hands and judge, condemn and execute the lady. You are not impartial in this matter for your feelings for Dhaavan drive you so. In moderation, little sister. There will be days where each person must temper their natural instincts. There is a fine line between killing and murdering. Do you understand my words, Amen-set? I would never seek to make you a murderer for my own selfish, fleeting gain. I would not dishonour you so."
After a brief pause and after Amen-set answers (if she does),
"And the gods can take many forms, little sister." She says no more on the matter as she knows of Amen-set's strong beliefs which were different to her own.
"You have listed attributes of a person that may be appealing and agreeable to another. But each person may have in whole or part these same attributes but it does not mean we will love them. There must be something deeper - a soul connection - a fitting of pieces to form a whole and forge a life together - to create union and family. Even if Variel was not Captain, I would still love him. It is not his position of power that moves me. I respect his abilities, but I seek an equal mate, each worthy of one another, each willing to put aside fear and their past to map out a future together. Trust, respect, honour, integrity, truth, wisdom -- all these sentiments are part of deep abiding love. I seek a worthy mate, little sister."
Rain reaches out to Neko,and gently strokes her tail. Through their telepathic link she returns, //I wish Variel would show me his love. Perhaps I am selfish and ask too much of him. I do not want to be a shameful secret. But it is good that you believe he cares for me.//
Neko had mentioned the Test of the Starstone in Absalom. Rain wondered if she had meant this part for Amen-set. She pondered it, while taking small bites of the food.
Response
When you mention pain, she smiles demurely at you.
”Do not the wise say: What is pain, but the measure of a man? For that which does not destroy us shall only make us stronger…,” she says, watching you.
She looks at you quizzically, her head tilting while she still smiles somewhat confused at your words.
”What do feelings matter to love, myr? In the end, they are merely the reaction of the mind to a given set of circumstances, nothing more… If you tell me that you do not return my love, I will not mind overmuch, for there shall be days that my love for you may wane, and days when my love for you may grow in passion. Those days depend on who you are as a man; and what you have done to inspire my feelings,” she adds, tracing an errant nail over your chin.
”As for hurting me?” she chuckles somewhat throatily ”That shall remain to be seen… A bird who flies free is one that is far from a snare; and a heart that is free cannot be devoured by another so easily.”
”In short, you can only hurt my heart if I let you have my heart to hurt,” she adds simply.
”But those are inconsequential things. What I speak on is power; and respect, and honor. In these matter mere “feelings” are completely irrelevant,” she says softly, continuing to trace her finger over you.
She seems like she might say more on this as she watches you contentedly, but she does not.
When you bite into her to draw blood, she smiles a little and leans into the wound, letting you taste more easily.
She stands when you do, and twists her head to her press her mouth to her own wound and licks the blood slowly.
”Hmm… yummy,” she says with a small growl, a shudder running through her.
Then she bids you good day and lets you go to see your fiancé.
** spoiler omitted **...
She listens to your words on killing, but doesn’t seem to mind too much.
”I think killing and murder are only words; what do they matter to the person who is dead, eh?” she says with a shrug.
”Yet, since we are all fated to die at some point, why should we fear death? It is like the barbarians of the northlands say – Today is a good day to die!”
”And with that in mind, why should we fear killing? Death – life – the same. But I am no cheap murderer, though – any killing I do; be it with my spear, blade, sorcery, garrote, or poison – it will be one that is open and honest,” she says turning to you with tender sincerity.
”I am not ashamed if I must kill someone. Some things must be done which do not seem agreeable. Yet when the time comes to do them, we must simply do them and then move on; not fret over what should have been. If we need to kill; we must kill. And if we should not have killed, than we would not have killed.”
She looks at you with a somewhat confused expression.
”If you believe in your heart that everything you do is good; how can you reproach yourself for anything you do? And if you never wish to reproach yourself, you would never do something that you do not believe in.”
She pops another piece of cheese in her mouth.
”Do not fear overmuch; I have no interest in killing this noble woman as of now. Yet when determining tactics, it is wise to consider all options first. If there is merit to a thing, it will reveal itself. If not, we have considered it, and are free to move on.”
”Too much talk on these matters can be taxing, though. But to honor your wishes, I shall not speak openly on killing again, if it troubles you,” she adds with a pleasant sigh.
She watches the stars for a while, thinking on your words about the gods, and sensing you are concerned about more than you let on...
”It is true; the gods do take on many forms," she says eventually.
"Yet what does that matter, truly? And what gods are worthy of love or worship?" she adds, musing a bit.
"Some – like my mentors from Osirion, taught me the ways of the Great Father. Others, like my mentors from Minkai, taught me the way of Apsu. I chose the Great Father… they found that odd; but it was not a choice I regret,” she says somewhat more seriously.
”But…” she says, her voice dropping ”but, there are other devout followers of gods… those who worship the nameless Ones; those who worship the gods before gods… those who would make themselves the God-Kings and steal divinity for their own from the heavens… Would my soul be more “holy” if I worshipped as these folk do?” she asks with a dark whisper, her blue eyes looking almost black in the dim light.
”They give respect to gods that have great temples; they worship in black rites in forgotten crypts when they bind the spirits of black djinn to their own soul and make slaves the demons of hellfire so that they may rule over men with greater ease… To them I am a “heretic”; an “un-believer”; one who does not follow the True Calling…”
Her tone is very intense and her words and very quiet as she stares at you.
”Tell me senet; between the those Faithful and my own beliefs; who is the more holy? Who is the more pure of heart? Who is the one you would wish to die, and who would you wish to be at your side when the seas boil and the sky falls…”
Then, the moment passes instantly and she smiles widely and pushes you in the arm somewhat playfully.
”Do not worry overmuch, senet; I am not those sorts, I was merely sharing some tales of those who worship other gods. I do not prescribe to their ways; but some doubt my heart or my motives. They should only judge my actions, yet they do not always do so... but I do not mind so much,” she adds, getting comfortable.
When she hears your words on Variel, she turns and looks at you with a long, steady look.
Amen-set is both fearless and holds the naïve idea that everything she believes is good and right, therefore, there is no reason not to say it, for how can the truth be a problem?
Yet her time with Horatio may have tempered her zealous feelings of confidence in her opinions. Further, after your words, she seems to think long on a proper, respectful, and completely reasonable answer that can not only fulfill her determination to be completely honest with you in all things; but so structured that she does not offend you as you are her sister.
Therefore, marshalling all her cognitive powers and determining everything she wishes to say, weighing it with everything that may hurt you, she decides finally on her best choice of words.
Looking at you squarely, she says the following:
”You are worthy of a truly great mate, senet. I have complete faith that one day you will find one that is truly worthy of your heart,” she says eventually with a long sigh, looking relieved that she could have organized her thoughts so succinctly.
Rain listened quietly to Amen-set talk about religion and her teachers and mentors.
The day had been long and her tears had spent her more than she cared to admit. She was drifting in and out of consciousness and was content to sit back, take supper and watch the stars.
"In truth, little sister, I am not an overly religious sort. I believe in the gods I pray and meditate to but I am more spiritual than religious. I do enjoy listening to your descriptions of the religions you have studied and took on for it gives me deeper knowledge on who you are and how you think. But I must admit, the day has been overly long and my senses have been dulled by troubles. Could we simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of the heavens in companionable silence until we retire for bed?"
"And Amen-set I do not doubt your heart or your friendship. Thank you for your wish of a great mate for me. I would see such a male, love and journey. For the both of us."
Rain leaned back and stared up in the night sky. The ship's rocking motion began to lull her as her exhausted eyes looked at the lights above her.
Lord Dhaavan Fellwind stands on the parapet of his tower and waves to the crew of the Lady as they depart, glad to see Horatio so excited and in such high spirits. also allows him to avoid dealing with Amen-Set for a few more days, as he's still only starting to make sense of her strange ways but still is unsure how volatile she is...
No, Instead he shall spend the coming days with his lovely wife as Lord of the Windward Isle and get busy as Master of Tidewater rock. When his fellows of the Dread Lady have departed, he turns and gives his Lady, Agasta an affectionate kiss and caress, saying with a smile, "Well it seems there is business to attend to my darling. While the rock is beautifully... ahem, suited to defending against enemy ships and land-based incursions, it seems that the attacks of the Sahuagin bypass our defenses," pausing as he says beautiful and glancing at her distractedly, playing a private game of flattery, and hoping to get a positive reaction.
He looks out over the lands and pointing to the wooded area at the inlet says "The forest provides cover for entry, but could also allow us to hide a guard-post to give early warning if any fishmen come up the river again."
Then pointing to the North shore of the river at the point where it turns from going North-west to South-west, he asks, "And a tower there gives overwatch where the river goes into the forest while remaining well out of range their arrows and spears. With a forest guard, and one with sight of almost the whole river, we should be able to tell if there are any incursion."
As he had been thinking on this in the back of his mind through the surgery, he then asks, "What sort of resources could we spare to build a dam in the river? Not one to block itn entirely, but one with gates we could drop to prevent a river retreat, or force them to land if they attack."
"What we can do is all a question of resources, but as I've just arrived, you know far better than I, what can be spared and what our people can reasonably build. At the very least we can try to get prepared so that when the Lady returns, the crew can pitch in with construction."
Adular tends to Belle to make sure she's okay, by now a bath or the like. He also offers healing to those still wounded that he couldn't tend to last night.
Then he looks over the side and gazes at the sea all thoughtful like.
Both Horatio and Amen-set seem to be fairly less animated than they had been before they left. Something is clearly troubling them, but they do not speak about it.
As you are no doubt having to deal with the presence of your wife, Amen-set will do what she can to give you space, not wanting to precipitate any issues.
Meanwhile, Horatio agrees to examine the watchtowers with you, paying specific attention to design and placement.
However, despite his work, he will mainly be asking you how things are moving forward with the people, paying specific attention to how the boy Mardus is fairing; curious to know about his health and his well-being.
Noting the nature of the bay, specifically how the tower comes almost directly to the shoreline; he asks about the possibility of building an actual dock and specifically a small warehouse (nothing fancy; maybe a two storey building about 40 feet square) to store goods and supplies for the people.
He points out that there are now many escaped slaves who would like to find a home here; but suggests that they will need a way to support themselves.
Having an area to launch small fishing boats would be helpful for them getting food; but a dock would also provide the island with a means of working on a ship (if possible and in time).
He reminds you of the meager conditions that Rickety Squibbs was when you had visited that port, and suggests that at this time he believes the island could be at least that detailed, if not better.
It is a suggestion he recommends to you.
Then he awaits your thoughts.
As they work Horatio comments to Dhaavan a bit about the combat, pointing out a wide range of better strategy that they may have employed and is curious to know what Dhaavan thinks on his plans.
After that he points out some particular issues regarding the gear that they had and some other necessities, then relaxes a bit, curious to know what Dhaavan might say.
Tactics
"I've seen what Rain can do with a pike in her hands, and having her establish a perimeter would help keep enemies away. Then while variel goes for toasting officers with his Lightnning blade, you and Jiro can wade through the melee on the enemy deck, I'll drop my sommoned beasts ta back ya up. I met an interesting creature what I'm itchin ta unleash. Then o'course I can drop pits under folk and burn em with arcane fires" Dhaavan suggests with a twinkle in his eye and a vicious grin.
** spoiler omitted **
Horatio is very pleased that Mardus is doing well, but other than general courtesy doesn't seem that interested in Lady Fellwind right now, obviously still distracted.
He listens to Dhaavan's strategy on the tactics for a moment then shakes his head a bit.
"Yeah, that's our general plan... But I got to tell you, on that last run it was near suicidal for Nightstorm and it may have cost most of us our lives by sheer accident."
He shrugs a bit carelessly, though.
"We got to start thinking of things a bit different I think; especially after what happened last time. Maybe when we all meet, we can talk about it together?"
"Anyhow, all that aside - what did you think of the idea of building a small set of docks by this main keep, and a possible warehouse beyond it? We have a forge here, we could outfit our ships better and possibly leave parts with "commissions" to have folk work on a project for us while we're gone. Then, when we get back, we just pick it up."
"Like, if we ever got a priest or magi who could fashion magical weapons, we may decide to have them craft us a magical siege weapon or something while we're sailing - as that'd need a forge. Then we just come back in a week or two and pick it up; no worries," he adds, curious to see what Dhaavan would say to that.
"Eventually yes, I fell like building the infrastructure of the Rock'd be a good call, but right now I just want ta get some defenses against the damn fishmen an' i dunno how much we'll be gettin from the ship if we scuttle it, cause we only got so much we can do wit' the resources on hand."
"As ta commissions, That'll be sommat what we settle when the time come, and we meet a body what can enchant like that. But if we do I'll certainly make a compelling case for relocation once we get the fish-problems sorted right." Dhaavan says with a grin, liking the idea of his forges smoking away while hi pirates and plunders and plays, or pursues other studies.
Horatio thinks a moment.
”Aye, I forgot about the dock we got there,” he says thoughtfully.
”First thing we need to do either way is to figure out what to do with the siege engines we took. Do we leave them on our own ship, or do we instead move them to the island to protect against errant ships.”
”You know,” he says to Dhaavan ”Once you start telling tales about us taking this place, there’ll likely be other lads who try to move in on it. That may be a problem later on.”
He looks at Dhaavan.
”I was thinking about busting things up, you know? Maybe we can render down some magic gear into spare parts, too?”
”Of course, if we wanted to get an edge on that, we may want to improve your chances by buying a decent sized alchemical lab – like a masterwork one, you know?”
”We could set something like that up too, if you’re interested in that type of project,” he adds casually.
"There's some differences between Alchemy and Magic. I kind of just muddle through things so i don't know what differences a dedicated workspace would do for me as my process ain's as organized as most enchanters, but I'm sure there'd be some way to make things easier."
"I think we may let it ride that we took the Rock till we get things a li'l more shaped up here and deal with our aquatic problems. Then we can tell folk of our claim more. discretion and valor and that bull." Dhaavan says with a chuckle.
Horatio nods.
"Sounds good to me, I'm down with that," he says with smile.
"What do you think of our prospects so far?" he adds, curious what the sorcerer will say.
As an afterthought, Horatio gives Dhaavan a sidelong look for a bit.
"Amen-set's been avoiding you so she doesn't piss off your wife. If you want to chat with her, you can, though."
"I think she'd appreciate talking to a friend," he adds with a noncommittal shrug.
During the day she is up on the high hill watching the sky.
She also built a small cairn of rocks on the highest point of the highest hill about three feet in height.
Wandering about the Isle, marking points of weaknesses and other such things, Rain, accompanied by Neko who was now perched about Rain's shoulders, spies a solitary figure of a female way up on the peak. Shielding her eyes from the sun, Rain makes out the form of Amen-set (or what looks like the girl) and begins walking toward her. They had not shared words since capturing the slaver ship and Rain wanted to rectify that.
Fortunately there was a man-made, dirt track winding up the hill and Rain purposely and diligently made the trek to the top.
Amen-set was building a stone mound and Rain remained quietly watchful lest her presence was seen as an intrusion.
Having waited a few minutes, Rain approached closer and made her presence known, "Good day, little sister. You have been rather industrious this day. I hope you do not mind the intrusion."
Amen-set is on the large hill.
There is a small pile of stones.
They are stacked with no particular order it seems, but they have been bunched into a small pile roughly one meter in height and roughly half of that in radius.
What is odd about the grouping is that it seems as if Amen-set has stacked them to look more like a pillar, rather than a heap or mound.
She is sitting on the rock pillar, her eyes turned to the sea and staring into the east.
Horus is near her, and at your approach he lets out a kreening cry, yet she does not move, seeming wrapped in her own thoughts.
As you finally draw near her, she notices you somewhat, but doesn’t speak.
She merely turns her head to look at you, curious to know what brought you to her.
** spoiler omitted **
She looks at you for a moment, her head cocked, as if trying to read you better.
Then she turns to look back to the east.
”I do not mind the intrusion,” she says in a quiet voice.
”How can I help you?” she asks, her tone somewhat subdued and less animated than usual, though it is still polite.
//Obnoxious...bird// Neko sent through their telepathic link, yet the cat was not perturbed by the Horus' sharp cry, instead cleaning the golden fur on the top of her paws.
Atop the stone pillar, Amen-set appeared as watcher - guardian overlooking sea and sky. It was a strange and reverent sight. Rain liked the vantage point it offered the girl.
Amen-set's face was turned away from Rain's and her subdued demeanour made Rain somewhat guarded. yet she continued, "Thank you for not minding." Rain moved forward until she was standing directly to the side of Amen-set and her stone pillar.
"I was exploring the lay of the Isle, acquiring deeper understanding of how it sits and where best we should lay defences. I saw someone up here and then recognised it was you. So, I came, for we have not spoken in days and I would see how you are faring, Amen-set."
Neko stood and leapt down from Rain's shoulders to the soft grass covering of the hillside. She stretched her legs and then settled down, blinking vivid emerald eyes surveying the landscape and people speaking; her eyes never straying too far from Horus.
Rain stood since Amen-set had not invited her to sit.
"That is a fine pillar you have built, little sister. What is its purpose, if I may respectfully ask?"
** spoiler omitted **
Amen-set glances down at Neko, watching the cat move about the rocks; her face neutral.
Then she looks back to the east, quiet for a moment before continuing.
”In my lands there are such pillars made; though in truth they are made much higher and much taller,” she says slowly, as if remembering.
”When a person dies they are carried to the top of such a pillar, so that their body is open to the sky and the Great Father above.”
”The jackals cannot feast upon their flesh; nor can the scorpions reach their corpse.”
”In time the bodies waste into nothing; but only through the will of the Great Father – he alone will take their remains into his keeping.”
She brushes a strand of hair out of her face.
”I built this one to remember such pillars,” she adds slowly ”and so that I do not forget my past.”
"It is better to feel the warmth and heat of the sun than the dank of the earth. Elves dispose of their dead in different ways. The Taneththirs prefer burial at sea, although my forest relations practice air burials, where the corpse of the deceased is left on a mountaintop. We do not reproduce readily as other races, and many believe it is because our spirits wait long in the Boneyard before rebirth."
Turning to watch Amen-set's face, shrouded in part by strands of copper hair, Rain adds, "It is a noble thing to remember the past, little sister." Rain grows silent upon her last word and looks out across the multiple fields of blue. In quiet, gentle voice, she asks,
"Are you sad or homesick, Amen-set?"