Tairin found a suitable rock, sat down and listened as Patenemheb described the events which led to the destruction of the dam and guards of Kharjah Pass and his presence here. She cast her eyes in the direction he gestured with his hands from time to time.
With Bear being silent and watchful beside her, Tairin gestured to the large Tharagian and introduced him, "This is my personal guard, Bjoern."
"The city of Belthaar recently seized one of Ghezath's princes. Naturally, Ghezath's sons would not bear this and marched upon Belthaar in number. Seeing Belthaar's strong gates, they proceeded to lay waste to the surrounding villages and country, as you have surely seen."
"These soldiers of Ghezath murdered an entire herder village we passed through on our way here. It also contained a prominent well and its waters were poisoned by these men. There will be many a thirsty and desperate traveller across the sands if they continue this spiteful undertaking. Belthaar is indeed in trouble." We are fortunate to have gotten out of the city when we did, she mused silently.
"I am inclined to seek opportunity and knowledge in the Empire of the Khazistanis. And after journeying alone, I am inclined to journey in company, should you and yours go in that direction."
Looking into her fellow Yar-Ammonite's dark eyes, she continued steadily, pushing aside all her immediate concerns, "You spoke of healing earlier. Our people are currently hale, yet we find we can do with another dedicated healer in our party. Seeing that the danger in these lands has escalated, it would be prudent to offer you a opportunity to ride with us. We, too, are headed to Khazistan, in particularly, Zul-Bazzir. We are currently performing the duty of caravan guard for a nobleman and his small retinue, so we should not tarry over long for the man has a short temper and little patience for dallying. We prefer to travel during the cooler hours of the night and rest when it is hottest to spare ourselves heat exhaustion. The full moon gives us good light which which to travel, without torches and other methods of illumination. The latter may draw attention we do not seek. We are in need of water, so that is a priority. With the passing dams and wells destroyed, it has proven discouraging. What say you to my offer to join us? If my companions have issue with this invitation, they will voice it I am certain." There was an amused glint in her dark eyes.
"Yes, the stranger does not appear hostile. I will come with you. Given the poisoning of the well at the village, we had best make sure that any water we find is not poisoned. Dead creatures that may have drunk the water is one sure sign. Now I am a water carrier. My skills grow by the day."
Bjoern nods to Ala´lhys words."This is important now. I will keep guard!"
This is a strange and cowardly way to attack one another. I somehow miss my north, where there is water in abundance and disputes are settled in the old, correct ways. Those so called civilized people are so much more barbaric than we are. But they call us barbarians. HA!"
"This is my personal guard, Bjoern."
Patenemheb dips his head slightly towards Bjoern when first introduced by Tairin.
"My greetings, Bjoern. I confess that I do not yet know well the speech of Tharag Thulan or Lamuran. Tairin, will Susrahnite suffice for the rest of your company? I know Taraamite as well as the tongues known in the Kingdom. And some of the elder languages, though they are not suitable for conversation."
"These soldiers of Ghezath murdered an entire herder village we passed through on our way here. It also contained a prominent well and its waters were poisoned by these men. There will be many a thirsty and desperate traveller across the sands if they continue this spiteful undertaking. Belthaar is indeed in trouble."
Patenemheb shakes his head sadly and gently.
"How swiftly the ways of civilisation are abandoned when pride and momentary advantage present themselves to the unwise. Even if the slaughter ceased this night, the destruction wreaked will render this land less habitable indefinitely."
"You spoke of healing earlier. Our people are currently hale, yet we find we can do with another dedicated healer in our party. Seeing that the danger in these lands has escalated, it would be prudent to offer you a opportunity to ride with us. We, too, are headed to Khazistan, in particularly, Zul-Bazzir. We are currently performing the duty of caravan guard for a nobleman and his small retinue, so we should not tarry over long for the man has a short temper and little patience for dallying. We prefer to travel during the cooler hours of the night and rest when it is hottest to spare ourselves heat exhaustion. The full moon gives us good light which which to travel, without torches and other methods of illumination. The latter may draw attention we do not seek. We are in need of water, so that is a priority. With the passing dams and wells destroyed, it has proven discouraging. What say you to my offer to join us? If my companions have issue with this invitation, they will voice it I am certain."
Patenemheb also perks up a little, and nods along to Tairin's points about travel at night.
"Finding water posthaste and travel by moonlight are sensible plans and I fully concur. And I will accept your offer. Out of all my arts, healing is the one I know best. I have trained in the Houses of Life, and know the way of the surgeon. And in lands that are not as barren and bereft of materiel-"
He pauses to look around.
"-I can wield alchemy to create elixirs to counter plague or poison. I can have Mehys ready to leave momentarily, even if he will be grumpy at having his contemplations disturbed."
Patenemheb says the last part with a slight smile.
*****************************************************************
"This is important now. I will keep guard!"
He is pleasantly surprised when Bjoern speaks in Susrahnite.
"Ah, very good. Have you been long in the service of Tairin?"
Caslav shrugs at Ala’Ihys's inviting himself along. "The more to carry water the better." He gives a wan smile.
"Tairin, will Susrahnite suffice for the rest of your company? I know Taraamite as well as the tongues known in the Kingdom. And some of the elder languages, though they are not suitable for conversation."
"There are a few of us who speak more than one tongue, yet Susrahnite is the common tongue among the caravan." Another companion fluent in the other languages, both current and elder, was certainly acceptable and she approved.
"How swiftly the ways of civilisation are abandoned when pride and momentary advantage present themselves to the unwise. Even if the slaughter ceased this night, the destruction wreaked will render this land less habitable indefinitely."
"One of my tutors in Yar-Ammon taught me the language of the Khazis, alas I have never visited Khazistan. I hope the troubles that have befallen Susrah do not cross to their neighbour and follow us to Zul-Bazzir."
"And I will accept your offer. Out of all my arts, healing is the one I know best. I have trained in the Houses of Life, and know the way of the surgeon. And in lands that are not as barren and bereft of materiel-"
"-I can wield alchemy to create elixirs to counter plague or poison. I can have Mehys ready to leave momentarily, even if he will be grumpy at having his contemplations disturbed."
Tairin simply nodded along to the man's credentials, "How fortunate our paths have crossed in this place. We had a Azimban with us when we first started and he was good with elixirs. He has long left our company and thus having your presence among us is promising. My own talents do not lend themselves to the creation of elixirs, yet I appreciate their value and usefulness." She smiled softly and genuinely.
When talk turned to Bjoern, Tairin sat and listened, content to be quiet for a time as the day had been long and full of surprises and troubles.
When the conversation ended between the men, Tairin looked to Patenemheb and added, "Let us return to the caravan. It will be good to check in with the others and speak with the nobleman." Tairin rose from the rock and dusted her cloak. Walking to where Haji had been hobbled, she unfettered the camel and turned, "I believe your Mehys will be content among the other camels." Raising herself into the saddle, Tairin looked to the two men beside her and with a nod of her head, beckoned, "Let us ride," prudently heading back down the slight incline and toward the caravan some hundred feet from them.
"There are a few of us who speak more than one tongue, yet Susrahnite is the common tongue among the caravan."
Patenemheb nods.
"That and Taraamite are the widely spread trade tongues of this age. They make good choices in a mixed group. Though I wonder if Khazistani will grow more widespread also with their Empire still potent."
"One of my tutors in Yar-Ammon taught me the language of the Khazis, alas I have never visited Khazistan. I hope the troubles that have befallen Susrah do not cross to their neighbour and follow us to Zul-Bazzir."
"A sensible piece of education. Many of the nobility in the Kingdom have learned the Khazistani tongue since the Empire's ascension. We will get to test our skill in it soon enough."
"How fortunate our paths have crossed in this place. We had a Azimban with us when we first started and he was good with elixirs. He has long left our company and thus having your presence among us is promising. My own talents do not lend themselves to the creation of elixirs, yet I appreciate their value and usefulness."
"An Azimban? I wonder if he was inducted in the rites of Jul-Juggah.", Patenemheb muses out loud.
"Let us return to the caravan. It will be good to check in with the others and speak with the nobleman."
"I believe your Mehys will be content among the other camels."
"Let us ride."
While Tairin speaks, Patenemheb readies the grumpy Mehys with acceptable skill, though he owes more of that ease to the finely crafted saddle on Mehys' back.
Once he sits astride Mehys, he replies properly, while getting Mehys to rise, leaving dust and sand raining onto the ground beneath the beast.
"I am keen to meet my new travelling companions. And Mehys will surely deign to accept their company."
Bjoern shrugs."How long I have been working for Tairin. Less than 3 moons. Has been interesting times!"
Bjoern sighs.
"Why do you ask?"
"How long I have been working for Tairin. Less than 3 moons. Has been interesting times!"
"Why do you ask?"
Patenemheb replies with a slight smile.
"I ask because I am curious, Bjeorn. It is my usual reason for asking anything, so please do not be perturbed by it. I would know those I will be travelling with. And you are further from Tharag Thulan than Tairin is from Yar-Ammon, after all. I have met few of your people, and that was a handful of sailors briefly in the port of Ghazor."
Caslav seems to pay Ala'Ihys no mind as they make their way to the caravan for waterskins, focusing instead on keeping his mount under some semblance of control. When they reach the caravan he nods in response to the archer's query to Lysander.
"Yes, come with us!" he says brightly. "We'll need all the water we can get, and I'd very much like to see how you handle your horse up close. I've already learned a lot from watching you!"
As you've provided a Sense Motive check, I'll oblige with an opposed Bluff and work the results into my above post :)
"Very well," Lysander says to Caslav, "You seem to be fairing better with each passing minute. I heard the woman ask you if you could creste water, I didn't know you were a magician.""
"'The woman' is standing right here, and is normally called Red."
You travel for a little less than an hour. Being that you are mounted and traveling at a downward angle and you have relatively no fear of assault, nor are you bringing your wagon, you make good speed. Before traveling far you can see clumps of sparse grass growing around a relatively damp streambed with a trickle of water in it.
Your mounts take you to a thick growth of trees and following the track of water you come to an opening where you find a deep depression with a goodly amount of water in it.
Being that the streambed is funneling fresh water to it – and being that there is an opening on the far side of the trees for runoff to exit to – you trust that this water is fresh enough, though you are not sure without some investigation.
However, upon searching the surrounding area you see signs of tracks from coyote, wolves and desert hare – among other small animals – and no sign of human tracks nor dead bodies.
You deduce, accurately, that the water is safe to drink.
Therefore, you take as much as you can carry and elect to return to your companions.
However, given that you are traveling up the incline and that you have stopped to read the signs and fill your gear, you do not return to the camp until shortly after 9:00 PM.
At this time you see that your companions have set up there full tents and supplies at the same place that you found the burned out ruins. Though this may seem strange, it is not overly surprising given that the tent for the noble and his daughter is nearly 20 Feet in width and the way up the pass is often narrowed to places roughly that same size. In short, you doubt there would even be the space to set up such a large tent during the majority of the journey.
You help to distribute the water and food while Sefu returns from the tent and attends to his horse, then sits by the fire and speaks to you.
Your conversation with the new traveler seem to be bearing fruit. He behaves both politely and intelligently and seems eager to have some companions on his trail.
Your own allies have gone for nearly a half hour when there seems to be some angry words from the noble followed by the gentle baritone voice of Sefu responding in a patient response. This causes you to investigate and you are greeted by Sefu who apologies for any inconvenience but informs you that – given that it is already 7:30 PM, and given that camp takes time to set up properly (as well as prepare fires for cooking and other nuances) and given that the tents and other gear take up a large amount of space and there will be less room while traveling in the pass itself – his lord has insisted on making camp now.
Realizing that you have little to do while your companions are fetching water – and knowing that it will take them time to travel there and back – you agree with this decision and elect to help Sefu with setting up your tents and gear. This process takes about an hour; including the setting up of the larger tents, the tending to of the beasts and supplies, and the collection of scrub and wood from the surrounding hills.
At this time the noble and his daughter retreat into the tent and the noble orders Sefu to prepare them a meal while he meditates. His daughter remains with him at this time, and Sefu takes it as a matter of course and begins to prepare the meal.
Realizing the wisdom of this decision you elect to aid him. This process also takes time and soon it is dark and the fire is all that illuminates your campsite as the bulk of the stars are veiled by the tall peaks which flank you.
Sefu excuses himself and brings his lord and daughter their meal as you eat.
Soon you are feeling full and comfortable when you hear noises to the east and you notice your companions returning with their supplies.
As they are all alive and they seem to be rather heavily laden with full water packs you are confident that they met with no trouble and invite them to eat with you.
You help to distribute the water and food while Sefu returns from the tent and attends to his horse, then sits by the fire and speaks to you.
Having eaten you now consider your plans for the evening and the next day.
”My friends; I do not know this land well, though my lord has indicated that when he traveled through in the past he found the majority of the trail the width of the Pass was as narrow as 20 Feet. Sometimes it widened somewhat and the cliffs on each side were less steep, but this was what prompted his to elect to camp now.”
”Even so, I am not entirely certain of what we shall find in the journey and this attack has me somewhat concerned for our collective safety. Do any of you know what we may expect?”
Samir wraps his cloak about him, the temperature having dropped to nearly 40 Degrees (roughly 4 Celsius) in the chilly night of the mountain air.
”I do not like the tale of the tracks leading north,” he says slowly.
”This new fellow here,” he says with a polite nod of his head at Patenemheb ”spoke of tracks which lead in different directions. At least one set headed north…” he and with a scowl, then shakes his head.
”As you travel north there are many hill tribes which infest the mountains here. Some make alliances with each other – from time to time – but they mean little as they hold no great allegiance to any but their own blood kin. Therefore they may have joined together for a common purpose, but I would wager that some were simply eager to slaughter the guards here with only modest prompting from the dogs from Ghezath simply for the coin they would take.”
He shakes his head impatiently.
”My fear is that they may have returned north to tell their kin that this pass is now theirs to levy tribute from and we may see some sort of trouble from them before we are through.”
Sefu frowns darkly at this information but says nothing as he considers things.
”What sort of men are these Hill Folk?” he asks after a momet of thought.
Samir shrugs.
”They are like the Sayida’s vassal,” he says with a nod to Bjeorn ”in that they are large men and women; they have long hair on their heads and face and wear beast hides to protect from the cold.”
”Most folk who fight them say that they do not often attack from range, preferring to do their killing face to face… Even so, they may attempt to shoot at us from an elevated position with bows – but I do not know for certain for I am from Nabistis and no expert on them; even so, it would be wise to be prepared for the threat of ambush on our journey,” he adds.
Sefu nods his head.
”Agreed,” he says in response.
”We must be prepared for that possibility on the trail tomorrow. With that in mind, as you know each other better than I, what do you deem to be the best strategy to arrange yourself and your beasts and goods when journeying? Remember; once we choose our order it would be wise to stick to it throughout the journey to keep things organized, so let us do our best to plan accordingly for any threat,” he adds, then looks at the rest of you.
Sefu then looks at Samir and the lean man nods his head in response, his eyes glinting strangely in the firelight as he studies you all.
Bjeorn chews absently on some dried meat and studies you all thoughtfully as Samir takes out his scimitar and begins to sharpen it casually.
”We have spoken at length – tell me, do you have any questions for me before we rest and begin our journey tomorrow?” he asks you all and Samir pauses in his work, caurious to know what those questions may be as well, if indeed you have any…
A slight nod of the head to his new companions, and greetings in Sushrahnite.
"My greetings to you. I am Patenemheb Sitayet of Yar-Ammon. I can provide healing or counsel as needed, being schooled in the House of Life. I look forward to travelling with your caravan."
*********************************************************
Patenemheb listens intently on the matter of threat from the Hill Folk.
Turning to Sefu, he then speaks.
"My training in arms is not the equal of my other skills. And I cannot strike from afar. I believe it best that I remain in the middle of the order, where I can provide eyes, words of warning, and healing as necessary."
He pauses to reflect.
"The pass will remain narrow and meandering for four days travel until it widens near the toll gate held by Khazistanis. An ambush could come at any point before that. I recommend single file, so that in the case of ambush our warriors can manoeuvre and reposition more easily."
"I would ask of Zul-Bazzir. I am led to understand that many of the blood of Yar-Ammon remain there, even a century after the conquest. What do you know of them?"
She was glad when the camp was set up and their riders returned with the water.
To them, she added with a smile, "Thank you for collecting the water. It is one less concern as we have much to talk about before we set off again." Tairin collected her waterskins and canteen and stowed them with her other gear in her tent before she returned and sat down around the fire pit.
Tairin drew her thick scarves around her neck and pulled the woollen cloak over her head to keep the chill from the cold mountain air at bay. She was glad for the fire and for the food she was eating. Listening to the conversation around her, she added in a voice not too loud to disturb Yetara and Daniya in their tent, "If Bjoern. Lysander and Ala'lhys would ride in front, in single file as recommended, I will follow in fourth position. Patenemheb, since you offered to ride somewhere in the middle, then perhaps you can ride behind me? We will also need to set up a watch during the course of the night. I would suggest we rise, eat, break camp and ride on as early as we can in the morning. What say you?"
When Sefu asked them if they had questions of him, Tairin waited her turn to speak and then added, "Good Sefu, how long will your noble employer and Daniya remain in Zul-Bazzir? Will the city be your final destination? Or do you mean to carry forward after a short stay? I ask only to determine how long you will require our services."
You believe your efforts with the nobles have been successful. At the least they seem to be accepting of you.
However, you do not recall ever hearing of a noble with their name; but you find it somewhat confusing that they do not give a more noted title or pedigree. A simple "First Name" hardly seems consistent with the style of nobility who typically tend to embelish their greatness with reams of various titles.
This makes you suspicious of his claim to nobility; though the mysterious leader of the caravan seems to be acting in a way that is extremely consistent with someone who has long enjoyed a life of privilege and power.
When Sefu asked them if they had questions of him, Tairin waited her turn to speak and then added, "Good Sefu, how long will your noble employer and Daniya remain in Zul-Bazzir? Will the city be your final destination? Or do you mean to carry forward after a short stay? I ask only to determine how long you will require our services."
Sefu frowns a bit at this question.
"In truth, I do not know the specific details."
He says nothing for a moment, as if considering how to answer that question a bit better.
"I do not believe he intends to return to Lamu; I suspect he will remain in Zul-Bazzir as long as he is able... More than that I cannot say," he says eventually.
Sitting at the fire to eat he listens to Sefu and Samir speak of the hill folk, pondering what he remembers about them from his travels.
Regarding your Geography Check you are fairly certain that these folk live in the hills.
More than that, you recall the folk are from the Zorab Mountains and are called the "Zorabi".
These tribesmen inhabit the Zorab mountains that jut up between Lamu and Khazistan. The southernmost tribes have accepted the overlordship of the Khazistanis, at least in name, while the rest are opportunistic raiders who feud incessantly among themselves.
Appearance: These mountain wolves wear white turbans and heavy cloaks, and are armed with scimitars and shortbows. They have long black beards, and their brown skin is wrinkled by the sun and mountain winds.
Zul-Bazzir? Is there anything that I may be able to assist him with?’
Zul-Bazzir was founded by Yar-Ammonite traders settling in the Oasis of Zul some five centuries ago. The city grew quickly into a major center of trade, a stopover for all major caravan routes through the al-Khazi desert. In the last century, Zul-Bazzir was conquered by the Khazistani horsemen coming out of the western steppes. A sizeable population of Yar-Ammonites remain, along with people from Susrah, Jairan and elsewhere, and the city remains a thriving place of commerce. Located on the westernmost edge of Khazistani influence, the city is often threatened by foreign invasion and raids. Despite this, Zul-Bazzir is unwalled, although the governor’s sprawling palace-citadel is protected by a tall inner-city wall. The bey (governor) of the city depends heavily on mercenaries, mostly from Yemar, to defend against occasional Yar-Ammonite intrigues, Jairanian ambitions, and the raids of wild Khazraj nomads.
Typical houses are one or two-story buildings with flat roofs. Nobles and wealthy merchants live in walled mansions with lush gardens and artificial pools. Between the outer districts where foreigners and slaves throng, and the golden minarets and spires of the inner citadel, are bustling markets and bazaars.
Lesser streets wind their way through the maze-like districts of the city, where thieves skulk and revelers feast at night.
"Greetings Patenemheb Sitayet. It is good to meet you and I expect your presence will be fortunate in the coming journey, which promises to be hazardous. I am called She Who Knows or the Red Seer. Actually I am almost always called Red except on formal occasions. As we may be faced with ambush or attack on the journey through the pass I suggest having two people on each watch at night. Apart from that my ideas have been covered by those who spoke earlier."offers She Who knows in thoughtful and polite tomes.
"Greetings Patenemheb Sitayet. It is good to meet you and I expect your presence will be fortunate in the coming journey, which promises to be hazardous. I am called She Who Knows or the Red Seer. Actually I am almost always called Red except on formal occasions. As we may be faced with ambush or attack on the journey through the pass I suggest having two people on each watch at night. Apart from that my ideas have been covered by those who spoke earlier."offers She Who knows in thoughtful and polite tomes.
Samir turns a thoughtful glance at Red but he says nothing as he chews on some dried meat for a moment.
His eyes then move to look at the hilt of Bjeorn's sword; then Caslav's dagger, and finally they flick on the talisman which Tairin is wearing.
He looks back at Red.
"We have many challenges to face, both before us and - perhaps - hunting us."
"Is there anything you can divine about these dangers; any craft or tool you may have which can aid us in this?"
He takes another bite from the dried meat and stares up at the sky.
Sefu glances at Samir and then turns and studies Red a moment.
"It is said that some have the power of Long Site and others still can perceive many hidden secrets from great distance."
"Yet those who delve too deeply in such practices do not often come to fortunate endings, for such gifts come with a heavy price."
He shrugs and stares at the fire.
"Who knows what tomorrow will truly bring... yet if there was a way to know, would any dare to discover it?"
Samir turns and looks at Sefu intently, though the man from Shoma does not seem to notice the gaze.
Then, as if realizing that others may be watching him, Samir suddenly shakes his head and returns to sharpening his scimitar.
Sefu glances at Samir and then turns and studies Red a moment.
"It is said that some have the power of Long Site and others still can perceive many hidden secrets from great distance."
"Yet those who delve too deeply in such practices do not often come to fortunate endings, for such gifts come with a heavy price."
He shrugs and stares at the fire.
"Who knows what tomorrow will truly bring... yet if there was a way to know, would any dare to discover it?"
"Indeed some do possess the power of long sight. And others can know the future, at least to some extent. Unfortunately I can't do either of these things. So you need not worry about me coming to a messy end, which is very sweet of you. What I can do is assist if we are attacked as seems likely." replies Red.
Hearing Ala"Ihys describe the tribes and city to come, Red replies "Thank you Ala"Ihys. If we know what to expect we can prepare for it. Your information should help a lot."
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Having listened to Samir and then to Red's reply, Tairin quietly interjected, "Red, you now possess Yammosh's Crystal. One of its great powers is that of Far Sight even though you can only perform such a thing once a day. It may sap you of your vitality if your will cannot endure, but it may come in useful. The other power is that of Vision, with such potent magic it can leave a taint. It is up to you if you would use these powers of the crystal."
Tairin's attention then turned to what she had heard about the Zorabi. "It is good you know of such things, Ala'lhys. If we mean to make it through the Pass, it would be prudent to cast our eyes to the cliffs on either side, if they would attack from distance rather than close quarters."
Patenemheb replies in a soft voice, so as not to disturb those who are settling down for the night.
”A pleasure to meet you Patenemheb Sitayet of Yar-Ammon, I am Ala’Ihys the archer formerly of Belthar.” He winks and smiles, ”It is good to have a healer with us. Hopefully we will never need to see how good you are.”
...
Looking around the fire, Ala’Ihys smiles and shrugs, ”I hope that helps."
"My many thanks Ala’Ihys, for your welcome and for your knowledge of Zul-Bazzir and the Zorabi. I too hope that you will have no need of my surgical expertise. But I reason that is too great a hope for travel in these lands."
"Greetings Patenemheb Sitayet. It is good to meet you and I expect your presence will be fortunate in the coming journey, which promises to be hazardous. I am called She Who Knows or the Red Seer. Actually I am almost always called Red except on formal occasions. As we may be faced with ambush or attack on the journey through the pass I suggest having two people on each watch at night. Apart from that my ideas have been covered by those who spoke earlier." offers She Who knows in thoughtful and polite tomes.
Patenemheb considers her words for a moment before replying.
"Then I shall address you as Red also. Unless formalities are called for, or you inform me otherwise. I have no objection to spending time on watch. I am curious about this crystal that Tairin spoke of and would know more of it, should you be willing to reveal such."
He racks his mind for lore that might apply to 'Yammosh's Crystal', particularly any word of its powers.
Tairin's attention then turned to what she had heard about the Zorabi. "It is good you know of such things, Ala'lhys. If we mean to make it through the Pass, it would be prudent to cast our eyes to the cliffs on either side, if they would attack from distance rather than close quarters."
"I believe that to be wise. Two watchers should be able to cover both sides of the pass, though perhaps four might be better should we have the eyes to keep open while others rest suitably."
Patenemheb adds, as a general note to the group:
"I would know what languages you all speak, so that I know what my options are for shouting warnings without giving away the exact meaning too easily. I myself am conversant in Yar-Ammonite, Khazistani, Susrahnite, and Taraamite. I also know elder tongues, but they are not for such use."
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"Very well," Lysander says to Caslav, "You seem to be fairing better with each passing minute. I heard the woman ask you if you could creste water, I didn't know you were a magician."
"Magician?" Caslav yelps with surprise. "No, I'm no magician; she's mistaken. Honestly, I'm a new member of this menagerie as well. I translate old languages and the like, but there's no magic behind that, I assure you - just a bit of education in my letters." One of them must have noticed my enchantment of those stones and recognized it for witchcraft! One of the northmen, perhaps. They couldn't know it's source, however, or else they'd have left me to die. Except perhaps Hedran; is that why he left us?
-----
Caslav gives the well-spoken newcomer his name with a smile. As the discussion turns to the arrangement of the caravan through the pass, he pipes up.
"I think staying near the back is a good idea for me, at least until I recover my skills astride a mount. Then I might be able to help scout." He smiles brightly at no one in particular before turning his attention back to making his meal of trail rations last as long as possible. Last thing I want is to be studied by a physician! I'm sure that dead priest's grave-touch will wear off soon... Better that none of our new "friends" suspect we spent our last days in Belthaar cavorting with cursed blasphemies.
"I too speak Susrahnite," the youth says, then blushes slightly. "Which I suppose is pretty obvious. But I can speak Taraamite as well!"
Hearing Tairin mention Yammosh's Crystal, Red face palms and shakes her head, then replies,obviously embarrassed "It has been a long day. Nonetheless I should recall the object of power I am carrying. Yes it can be employed to enhance vision or gain prophetic knowledge, though I suspect the second can be hazardous." Then in reply to Patenemheb's questions replies, taking Yammosh's Crystal out and holding it forth for inspection "Certainly you may inspect it. Languages? I speak Yar-Ammonite and Susrahnite as you know, and Bhangari, Djaka, Nabastissean, Khazistani and Zadjite."
Arriving back at camp after the water gathering excursion Lysander joins the group around the fire. "Well met Patenemheb," addressing the Yar-Ammonite healer, "If danger should arise feel free to take shelter under the wagon." Lysander lets slip and exasperated chuckle while looking at the accursed wooden contraption. "I swear I was told the ground would be harder packed than it turned out to be."
When Tairin offers the suggested marching order Lysander nods in agreement.
"I would know what languages you all speak, so that I know what my options are for shouting warnings without giving away the exact meaning too easily..."
"Like you, Patenemnheb, I speak Yar-Ammonite, Khazistani, Susrahnite and Taraamite."
"I think staying near the back is a good idea for me, at least until I recover my skills astride a mount. Then I might be able to help scout.""
"Good, Caslav. We need someone to ensure we are not being followed in the rear of the caravan. The nobleman and his people depend on our skill and service. If you spy a threat from behind, you can give warning and we can be better prepared."
Tairin acknowledged Lysander when he nodded in agreement to his place in the marching order. "Thank you for taking the front position with Bjoern. With the wagons, gear and pack animals, our pace will be slower, so we must be vigilant and ready for any attack. The Zorabi sound quite proficient with bows."
He racks his mind for lore that might apply to 'Yammosh's Crystal', particularly any word of its powers.
Yammosh is a Sea God of Susrah; along with Belit-Lil and Baal-Khardah, he is counted one of the main deities of the nation (though lesser than the other two).
His primary temple is in the Port City of Ghazor and sailors often make sacrifices to him for safe voyages.
You have not heard of this crystal specifically; but it is a known fact that many who practice dark or mysterious arts often use crystals for the purpose of divining secrets - some of things that have happened long ago, some from far away and some yet to be.
You suspect that a crystal which could allow a person to see things far away or yet to come would be very useful for a sailor on the high seas.
Patenemheb adds, as a general note to the group:
"I would know what languages you all speak, so that I know what my options are for shouting warnings without giving away the exact meaning too easily. I myself am conversant in Yar-Ammonite, Khazistani, Susrahnite, and Taraamite. I also know elder tongues, but they are not for such use."
Sefu nods his head.
"A wise question. For myself I speak the languages of the Shoma people and, of course, the Susrahnite tongue," he says with a friendly voice.
Samir doesn't speak at first; but he glances at the others for a moment, then back at Patenemheb.
"I speak Susrahnite as well," he says after a moment.
Samir is not being wholly honest.
Those who have traveled with him knows he at least speaks other tongues; his language is laced with words from various nations which he uses casually.
Ala'lhys; your background with him suggests he knows at least the language of Nabastis people - more than that you are not sure.
You suspect that he is clearly being circumspect with the new traveler about his full range of abilities until he knows him better.
The conversation turns to other things.
"It has been a long day. Nonetheless I should recall the object of power I am carrying. Yes it can be employed to enhance vision or gain prophetic knowledge, though I suspect the second can be hazardous."
At this Sefu's eyes widen in surprise at the words and he seems somewhat nervous.
Seeing “She Who Knows” draw out the crystal, Ala’Ihys almost chokes on his jerky, swallowing it hard then sitting gap mouthed for a moment, he looks around to see who else is surprised, then takes another bite of the cured meat.
Samir seems to be devoting his entire attention to sharpening his weapons. However, at this time the company seems suddenly surprised by the almost whispery approach of a figure behind him.
Looking up the silent individual you see Daniya standing there regarding you all curiously.
"I beg your pardon... I was not able to sleep."
She eases herself into the group and then lowers to herself down to the ground with a catlike grace.
"I did not mean to eavesdrop, but is it true that you carry a relic to Yammosh?" she asks with an innocent curiosity.
It seems rather good timing for the girl that she was not only awake but she was able to approach your party and arrive just in time to hear the comments about the crystal belonging to Yammosh.
Also, she seems to be extremely silent when approaching a company of veterans on watch in a campsite in hostile country. Of course, being stealthy isn't normally considered to be such an unusual skill for someone to possess, but it does seem somewhat unusual for the daughter of a noble to have such a skill.
Of course, it's possible that all of this may just be a coincidence...
Red is quiet, brooding even, keeping the crystal hidden [if it is not still out being shown to Patenemheb] and thinking we should not have mentioned this item. Precisely now this mysterious woman just happens to show up. We will face attempts at theft at the very least I fear.
Then in reply to Patenemheb's questions replies, taking Yammosh's Crystal out and holding it forth for inspection“Certainly you may inspect it. Languages? I speak Yar-Ammonite and Susrahnite as you know, and Bhangari, Djaka, Nabastissean, Khazistani and Zadjite.”
Patenemheb leans forward slightly, gazes over the crystal briefly, while replying.
"Your knowledge of the languages of the east is impressive, and I would learn those from you, if you are of a mind to teach them. The crystal is certainly an object of fascination. A sailor would certainly find its purported powers useful. Have you attempted to make use of it yet? And if so, what occurred?"
****************
"Well met Patenemheb," addressing the Yar-Ammonite healer, "If danger should arise feel free to take shelter under the wagon." Lysander lets slip and exasperated chuckle while looking at the accursed wooden contraption. "I swear I was told the ground would be harder packed than it turned out to be."
"A sturdy cart surely means fewer breakages, but more severe ones. I will bear your suggestion in mind, Lysander. I take it that you are Nabastissean from your accent. Do you know other tongues?"
****************
Tairin acknowledged Lysander when he nodded in agreement to his place in the marching order. "Thank you for taking the front position with Bjoern. With the wagons, gear and pack animals, our pace will be slower, so we must be vigilant and ready for any attack. The Zorabi sound quite proficient with bows."
Smiling at Patenemheb’s forthright response he then answers ”I speak Susrahnite, and Taraamite. I realize in present company that seems unimpressive. But for what it’s worth I speak Susharnite very well and can explain or demonstrate what most of the cuss words mean.” Winking and smiling, obviously finding himself entertaining.
"The order seems apt. And Ala'thys, you know both of the major trade tongues. That is more than many. Do you happen to know what tongues these Zorabi speak? If we have a gap between their ignorance and our knowledge, we have advantage to make use of."
****************
"A wise question. For myself I speak the languages of the Shoma people and, of course, the Susrahnite tongue," he says with a friendly voice.
"Very good. I would learn the Shoma tongue from you, if you are willing to teach."
****************
Samir doesn't speak at first; but he glances at the others for a moment, then back at Patenemheb. "I speak Susrahnite as well," he says after a moment.
"As you say. I hope that we will be able to aid each other on our travels."
****************
Looking up the silent individual you see Daniya standing there regarding you all curiously.
"I beg your pardon... I was not able to sleep."
She eases herself into the group and then lowers to herself down to the ground with a catlike grace.
"I did not mean to eavesdrop, but is it true that you carry a relic to Yammosh?" she asks with an innocent curiosity.
Patenemheb fixes Daniya with a cool but outwardly placid look.
"If you wish, my young lady, I could mix an elixir to deepen your sleep. We have a long journey ahead of us, and we need to have our wits about us as we travel."
Patenemheb leans forward slightly, gazes over the crystal briefly, while replying.
"Your knowledge of the languages of the east is impressive, and I would learn those from you, if you are of a mind to teach them. The crystal is certainly an object of fascination. A sailor would certainly find its purported powers useful. Have you attempted to make use of it yet? And if so, what occurred?"
Red moves if need be so that the back of her head is toward Daniya. She then raises a finger to her lips in a "shush" gesture and returns the crystal to under her clothing where it is stored.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"If you wish, my young lady, I could mix an elixir to deepen your sleep. We have a long journey ahead of us, and we need to have our wits about us as we travel."
Daniya cocks her head and stares at Patenemheb for a moment; her deep eyes studying him thoughtfully.
She then turns to Sefu.
"This man was not hired by my father - why is he here?"
"He speaks as if he wishes to travel with us; why should he think that?"
Sefu winces a bit at the briskness of her response and glances at Patenemheb then back to her.
"My apologies; we discovered him here when we arrived and he has offered to journey with us. He seems a goodly sort and - being that these are rough lands with many dangers - it seemed wise to accept his help."
Her expression is hard to read in the dim light, especially as her veil obfuscates the lower half of her face.
"I see... you found a place where water is collected and now it has been razed to the ground with heavy fire and a stranger stands among the ruins alive and whole; but you deem he is a goodly sort... Further, while it is a fact that many of our new friends are skilled in the means to survive, including the ability to track and read the signs of the wild - most made the conscious choice to refuse to use their skill set to confirm the details which he has uncovered, instead, they trusted his wisdom implicitly... Odd that they should refuse to do that and simply accept the word of a stranger without question; almost as if they were compelled by mysterious means to refuse to use their wits or skills to discern truth - though, indeed, he may be a goodly sort."
Her eyes move from Bjeorn to Lyssander and then Samir, then she looks back at Sefu as he frowns suddenly as if thinking.
"And then this southron," she says with a nod at Red "speaks of possessing some tool or item belonging to a Susrah god... an odd thing for a wanderer to possess, I deem, but when I merely wish to learn more of this item, for it is a truth that such things seem - to me - very interesting... She makes the conscious choice to disrespect me and my position by refusing to even grace me with an answer... She is not forced to speak overmuch of such things as what she carries, perhaps, yet to ignore me explicitly seems to me to be disrespectful, do you not think so?" she adds, with a soft sigh and Sefu turns a hard look at Red, his eyes narrowing as he studies her.
"So you must forgive me Sefu; when we found a horrible massacre with a lone man standing in the midst of the remains, and this same man then offers his own explanation for how these things occurred.... And the northman," she says with a nod at Bjeorn "and the cavalry man," she says with a nod at Lyssander "who are skilled in studying the signs in the wild then make the choice to refuse to confirm his tale... I find this somewhat disturbing... And when I find that one of the guards hired to protect us in the deep desert speaks of possessing an item of great power belonging to some foreign god, I find that very unusual... And when I ask some humble questions about the items in question of those who would be my protectors I am met with stony stares from the one who carries the tool of the foreign god even while this new mysterious stranger, though perhaps a goodly sort, offers to make some strange brew or elixir to put me to sleep...."
"I am sorry for speaking overlong Sefu, but such things make me very nervous," she says and seems to move closer to Sefu as if for protection, pressing against him like a small child may press against a caregiver for assurance of safety.
Sefu looks down at the girl and does his best to comfort her.
He eases his sword hilt somewhat more comfortably at his hip as she is nestled hard against his side, but then he turns to Red.
"What is this crystal you carry?" he asks her in a very blunt and matter-of-fact way.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"It was I who confirmed the physician's story," Caslav blurts out, "before deciding to go to the oasis. It was as he said. I'd never ride into the desert at the direction of a stranger without first proving his trustworthiness in some fashion, or, in your case, taking his coin. As for the crystal..." the boy's eyes go wide and his head gives a little shake side to side "It is best that you don't know. She Who Knows has a wisdom only those who speak to the sands or stare too long into the sun can possess, wisdom others might call madness, that protects her. She doesn't want to be responsible for what might happen to you, a highborn lady, should she share the crystal's secrets with you. When you went mad, she would surely hang for it - or worse!"
"Now you, bodyguard - your soul is of little importance. Perhaps you she might tell. Though if she so chooses..." Caslav looks somewhat fearfully at Red and slowly raises his hands to cover his ears.
Bjoern shrugs and adds.
"I am no outdoor expert, and I learned in the arena that it is sometimes easy to make a story, a cover to hide the truth of a fight.
The signs are obvious. But the truth is in the killing!"
And for this strange man to want to join us.
"With the violence in the village, I can understand well that he wants some company to keep him safe. The desert is no place for a lone person without good outdoor skills.
Alas, for his worth. We have to keep an eye on him. But most of us are strangers to each other."
Tairin sighed inwardly as some of her companions had forgotten their manners or least their feigned civility. It did not bode well this night and she would try to remedy the misunderstanding.
"Daniya, dear, it is good to see you and you are welcome around the fire as Yetara sleeps. Please excuse my companions for the day has been long and they have witnessed such despicable destruction that their words sound more keen to the ear. Mercenaries are such a passionate lot - the fire in our blood burns deeply." Tairin smiled and then softly chuckled so as to placate the agitated young woman and use teasing/mirth with which to do it.
"I was the first to speak with the learned healer and scholar, the one named Patenemheb, when we encountered him among the ruins. His words and actions did not strike me as false and in fact, he provided ready information of the region we mean to pass through, so I invited him to share our camp and journey. If I was lax to present him to you and Yetara and make proper introduction, please accept my apology. It was not done so out of duplicity - we simply were engaged with finding water and securing the camp for the night that time passed too quickly."
Tairin offered a mug of tea to the young woman, "It is simple tea, but fragrant enough to drink. I am drinking a cup of it myself to take the edge off the chill of the growing night." She lifted her own mug and drew a sip to show the woman it was no sleeping draught. She waited to see if the young woman would accept the hot drink and if she did not, then she would put it down by her feet.
"As to a crystal belonging to the god Yammosh, have you heard of such a thing? I was impressed with your knowledge of the gods when we last spoke, so I would enjoy hearing more from you on the matter. Our healer, Red, has a quieter demeanour and her reticence is not out of contempt. As you can imagine, mercenaries are in the business of discretion, and, secrecy keeps us employed and alive. No disrespect was meant, Daniya and Sefu," She let her eyes settle gently on Daniya then Sefu to show them her sincerity. "Let us enjoy the conversation and company."
"It is best that you don't know. She Who Knows has a wisdom only those who speak to the sands or stare too long into the sun can possess, wisdom others might call madness, that protects her. She doesn't want to be responsible for what might happen to you, a highborn lady, should she share the crystal's secrets with you. When you went mad, she would surely hang for it - or worse!"
The girl seems to cringe at Caslav's words.
"Oh Sefu; these people speak of horrible things... I am so afraid," she adds with a choked sob which makes Sefu look shocked at Caslav's statement and takes her in his arms, comforting her as best as he can.
"Please, do not let them hurt me," she implores, her voice muffled by his massive frame and the heavy drape of his lion skin cloak.
Sefu turns a baleful look at Caslav and Red; his friendly courtesy all but gone and replaced by the look of a man who seeks to protect someone he loves like a daughter, though perhaps his filial emotions are struggling to remain chaste as - in the midst of her cries - she seems to squirm more intently against him.
Bjoern shrugs and adds.
"I am no outdoor expert, and I learned in the arena that it is sometimes easy to make a story, a cover to hide the truth of a fight. The signs are obvious. But the truth is in the killing!"
The girl merely whimpers in Sefu's arms as he then looks to Bjeorn; but before he can respond to him, Ala'Ihys interjects.
"We searched the village in the cliffs for tracks, the raiders rode horses and were from Ghezath. This man is mounted on a camel and clearly a Yar-Ammonite Scholar. He clearly was not with them."
The girl gently eases herself from Sefu's arms and stares at Ala'Ihys.
While her face is largely obscured by her veil you can still see her eyes and they are clear and focused as she studies him.
"Oh Sefu, I am not wise like these folk... I had read many things in my life, though not as much as men have, of course; yet most sages I have heard of agree that in the lands of Yar-Ammon men perform black rites and rituals and so that by their craft they shall be better able to serve some dark being from beyond our realm; others still align themselves with demons from the deepest hells and by those dark pacts and strange alliances they are thus able to draw forgotten powers from places more ancient then when man was naught but a naked ape to crawl in mud and filth..."
"Thus when I saw a Yar-Ammonite scholar; garbed in robes as well as mystery, standing unmolested in the midst of charred corpses which lay in a heap inside a building consumed in an inferno I was - perhaps - unduly concerned that such a man may have powers as yet unguesed... Such fears were truly foolish, perhaps, yet I am only a young girl and I am not wise like others..."
Sefu's brow knots in lines of confusion as he considers her words and their meaning, turning his gaze to bear on Patenemheb.
"As for what is in 'Red's' personal possessions, frankly girl, that is none of your concern. Employer or not, we are not your slaves. If there was a concern about us or what we carried, it should have been asked back in Belthar, but your father was in a great hurry, if I recall."
She lifts a silk scarf hanging around her neck to dab gently at her lidded eyes as she stifles back the choked sound of a sob.
"I fear it is simply my lack of inexperience with such high matters... Yet when I heard of these folk possessing powerful tools aligned to strange gods - and when I hear that man there; a native son of those lands where the people worship gods that look like men with the heads of beasts; and where the foulest of cults thrive as their members debase themselves in worship to that black demon Zanthiss, who some call Set..." she adds with a choked voice and pauses in her words to dab at her eyes again "and then when that same man offers to brew me a drink to put me into a slumber... I confess, I was unduly unnerved..."
"If those things bother you, we have taken no gold from your 'father' yet. So, if there is a problem with 'Red', I for one, am willing to end our employment here and leave a day after you and yours."
Sefu looks hard at Ala'Ihys.
"Are you saying that because of some concerns from this child and a few harsh words that you would break faith with my master?" he says with a suddenly calm and emotionless voice.
At this Daniya gives Sefu a sudden glance, her arms untangling themselves from his body and she slowly draws a bit back from him, her eyes flicking between Sefu and Ala'Ihys.
[dice=Sense Motive for Daniya DC 20]1d20+5
"Daniya, dear, it is good to see you and you are welcome around the fire as Yetara sleeps. Please excuse my companions for the day has been long and they have witnessed such despicable destruction that their words sound more keen to the ear." Tairin smiled and then softly chuckled so as to placate the agitated young woman and use teasing/mirth with which to do it.
"I was the first to speak with the learned healer and scholar, the one named Patenemheb, when we encountered him among the ruins. His words and actions did not strike me as false and in fact, he provided ready information of the region we mean to pass through, so I invited him to share our camp and journey. If I was lax to present him to you and Yetara and make proper introduction, please accept my apology. It was not done so out of duplicity - we simply were engaged with finding water and securing the camp for the night that time passed too quickly."
Daniya seems to be eager to accept the proffered olive branch; but before she can speak Sefu has slowly risen to his feet and shrugs the cloak from his shoulders.
Without his covering you can see his frame is at least as massive as Bjeorn's; but his body is criss-crossed with many scars and wounds, far more than the dour northman and his stance bespeaks the careless grace of a barbarian stifling some brooding rage growing hot within him.
Despite these mannerisms he stares at Ala'Ihys with the same emotionless expression; placid, calm, fearless - indeed, no expression can be seen in his eyes whatsoever after hearing Ala'Ihys's threat to sever the contract with his master after the girl asked questions.
Tairin offered a mug of tea to the young woman, "It is simple tea, but fragrant enough to drink. I am drinking a cup of it myself to take the edge off the chill of the growing night." She lifted her own mug and drew a sip to show the woman it was no sleeping draught. She waited to see if the young woman would accept the hot drink and if she did not, then she would put it down by her feet.
It is not easy to tell what the girl is thinking, yet she does not seek to touch the drink and Sefu continues to wait for a response from Ala'Ilhys.
"As to a crystal belonging to the god Yammosh, have you heard of such a thing? I was impressed with your knowledge of the gods when we last spoke, so I would enjoy hearing more from you on the matter. Our healer, Red, has a quieter demeanour and her reticence is not out of contempt. As you can imagine, mercenaries are in the business of discretion, and, secrecy keeps us employed and alive. No disrespect was meant, Daniya and Sefu," She let her eyes settle gently on Daniya then Sefu to show them her sincerity. "Let us enjoy the conversation and company."...
The girl's eyes narrow and she glances from Tairin; then to the bulk of Bjeorn and Lyssander, as if to gauge something about them - her eyes flick back to Samir, who is now standing up somewhat before and between Tairin and Ala'Ilhys, his frame offering the woman and the archer some modest cover.
She then looks at Sefu and places her slender palm on his heavy arm.
"Please, Sefu, we should have no bloodshed now - the lady is right; we should all be friends here," she says with a nervous tone to her voice as she watches the thick, corded muscles in his neck swell with the slow throb of blood coursing through his veins.
"This one threatened to break his word to my master, such things are not without consequence," he says with a soft and gentle voice to Daniya even as his eyes remain like brittle flint, staring at Ala'Ilhys.
"Nay - he merely said he would break his Oath to be our guard should I press the issue... Yet do not fear, I shall not press it. Indeed, I fear that it would a terrible tragedy if blood might be spilled on my account," she adds with little shudder.
Sefu's eyes remain neutral, but his muscles unlock like a cat. He stoops down to pick up his cloak, his eyes never leaving Ala'Ilhys, and then he stands and slings it over his shoulder.
"By your will, lady," he says to her, then turns on his heel and stalks off into the night.
Daniya turns to Tairin.
"You are wise and gracious, lady; I thank you for your courtesy... I only wished to know more of the tale of this stone. And if you yourselves know so little of its history then how could it be that I would know more?" she adds with a doleful shrug of her shoulders.
"I merely wished to learn... Alas! In my homelands it is a truth that not even a noble's daughter is able to study, for such things are kept beyond her station," she adds with a somewhat sad sigh.
Then she raises her eyes and stares at the company before her; her gaze moving slowly over all of them - lingering long on Red for a moment, then moving back to Tairin.
"Even so, I shall not begrudge you of the secrets you keep."
"After all; when it comes to such things as secrets I feel what you said is true; one's very survival may hinge on how well they may weave such a web," she says, the expression seeming odd somehow, but this does not seem to phase the girl as she regards the company thoughtfully.
Tairin noticed the girl refused to drink her offering of tea. Finishing her own mug, Tairin picked up the one by her feet and drank from it in an effort to demonstrate to Daniya it was neither poisoned nor laced with sleeping draught.
Tairin was not entirely sure what was going on with Daniya and her various emotions and tantrums. The girl was unusual and reticent to answer directly, but anymore than that, Tairin could only speculate at best...
When Sefu picked up his cloak and settled down and Daniya spoke of friendship. Tairin was inwardly relieved that the situation had not escalated into combat or worse,
"You are both gracious and we are honoured to call you friends. It is good to have peace between us. Thank you."
"You are wise and gracious, lady; I thank you for your courtesy... I only wished to know more of the tale of this stone. And if you yourselves know so little of its history then how could it be that I would know more?" she adds with a doleful shrug of her shoulders.
"I merely wished to learn... Alas! In my homelands it is a truth that not even a noble's daughter is able to study, for such things are kept beyond her station," she adds with a somewhat sad sigh.
"Oh, Daniya, how I understand well what you say. My tutors were only permitted to teach me as much as my father decreed. If I knew more of Yammosh or the baubles he may have possessed, I would have shared it with you gladly. Perhaps in time, we, the both of us, will gather deeper knowledge of such restricted matters. Yes, it is my hope that we shall." Tairin smiled and nodded eagerly.
"Even so, I shall not begrudge you of the secrets you keep."
"After all; when it comes to such things as secrets I feel what you said is true; one's very survival may hinge on how well they may weave such a web," she says, the expression seeming odd somehow, but this does not seem to phase the girl as she regards the company thoughtfully.
"Yes, we live in a complicated world, and, such complexities lead to reservations and wariness. I hope that you are shielded from such webs, dear Daniya. The good Sefu, here, is a fine guardian, I deem. You are fortunate, my friend."
"I said we're employees, not slaves, if the terms of our contracts change then the employment can change as well."
Tairin closed her eyes for a brief moment upon hearing Ala'lhys' words before attempting to pacify any negativity which they may inspire, "We will gladly fulfil our obligation to escort you all to Zul-Bazzir. We are duty-bound and that has meaning."
Attempting to turn the discussion to something other than Yammosh and the severing of contracts, Tairin smiled and continued, "Are you looking forward to arriving in Zul-Bazzir, Daniya? I have never visited the city before, so I am uncertain of what to expect."
Patenemheb sighs inwardly, while showing a mask of a face.
She reminds me of the fickle creatures that now flourish in the Kingdom: bereft of wisdom but possessed of a certain cunning.
He watches the ebb and flow of conversation while he chooses his words with care.
The girl seems to cringe at Caslav's words.
Ah.
I...cannot tell if he believes what he is saying or not. That is either very inventive - or ignorant. And I do not suspect that he is ignorant. I would speak more with this one.
***********
Tairin closed her eyes for a brief moment upon hearing Ala'lhys' words before attempting to pacify any negativity which they may inspire, "We will gladly fulfil our obligation to escort you all to Zul-Bazzir. We are duty-bound and that has meaning."
Attempting to turn the discussion to something other than Yammosh and the severing of contracts, Tairin smiled and continued, "Are you looking forward to arriving in Zul-Bazzir, Daniya? I have never visited the city before, so I am uncertain of what to expect."
It is not yet time for me to speak. Tairin is doing clever work in calming the girl. I will avoid cutting across the girl's reply, and then respond, if it still necessary.
Around the fire as the conversation moves on, Lysander is slightly taken back with the talk of far sight, crystals of power, and terrible consequences. I signed up to guard a caravan, what in the abyss have I gotten myself into...
As the discussion turns tense, Lysander's attention turns toward Daniya, her words and mannerisms cause the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end and arouse suspicion in his mind. Is the 'father' truly the one pulling the strings here...
Once cool tongues have prevailed,
"I speak Taraamite, Susrahnite, and Lamuran in addition to my native Nabastissean." replying to the scholar's earlier question.
In the morning after having slept on the events of yesterday, Lysander approaches Ala'Ihys and agrees to join in the scouting.
Daniya turns her head and watches Sefu in the far shadows standing like a silent sentinel of brooding menace.
She twists her body more comfortably and eases her limbs.
"You speak so courteously to me... Indeed, I thank you for that," she says to Tairin.
Then she turns her eyes on Red and fixes her strange gaze on the girl.
"You have persisted to ignore me... that is a very ugly way to act."
"I abhor ugliness."
Samir's eyes turn from Sefu and he looks at the girl with growing suspicion and his hand slides slowly to rest upon his sword hilt.
The fingers on her right hand tapping a small cadence on her hip as she cocks her head and watches Red for a long while as she waits to hear a response.
"Does this mean we shall not be friends?" she persists with a slight pout to her voice, all but masked beneath the frosty intensity of her eyes as she regards Red.
She swings herself forward so that she is now kneeling in the sand and leans in gently to stare into Red's eyes.
Samir's hand tightens on his sword hilt and it rises a sliver from his sheathe.
Then Daniya rises swiftly from the ground like a panther and stands before the company and lets out a soft peal of laughter, somewhat obfuscated from behind her veil.
She looks down at the others sitting there.
"It was interesting talking to you; I think I shall sleep a while, though I am sad that your companion refuses to speak to me... but perhaps that may change in time."
She turns as if she intends to retire to her tent, but she pauses and lowers her head down to Red.
"If I did not think you were my friend, I do not think I could bear it..." she adds with a soft, silky voice.
Then she raises herself up and heads back to her tent.
Tairin remained silent throughout the peculiar banter levied at Red. She waited until Daniya stood to return to her tent and she bid her "Good night, Daniya. I am certain there will be other opportunities for you both to converse. May you sleep well, my friend. We mean to rise early to break camp and set forth for the day." Tairin smiled and inclined her head politely.
Tairin watched and waited until Daniya moved inside Yetara's tent. If the young woman turned, she would hold her hand up in friendly wave. She also waited for Sefu to resume his place before the tent, giving their party a semblance of privacy. Lifting her hand gently to her face, as if she were adjusting the scarves, Tairin discreetly placed her finger against her lips, hoping her companions would see the gesture.
In clear (not loud) voice, she bid, "Let us discuss watch shifts for the night then we retire for we have a long day ahead of us on the morrow." Taking a seat near Red, she eyed the witch healer before gesturing for the males to sit close. She lifted a hand up in front of her, but not so it could be readily seen by Sefu or anyone coming from the noble's tent. After another moment, spoke in hushed, steady tones (there is NO ire in her voice/tone, but she comes to the point directly), "You should know better in how to deal with nobles. They can be sweet when they are of mind and then they can turn with only the mildest provocation. She is under the protection of Yetara, although she is not his daughter, for she said as much to me. Sefu is a most loyal and faithful servant and responds like a father would to his child. He will not stand for her to be unhappy or harmed. So, there will be no more talk of severing contracts with our employers. I can only do my best, for she and I have struck up a respectful acquaintance, but I do require you all to play your part in ensuring accord within camp. If you feel the bile rise, then clamp it down or stand, respectfully bid leave and walk away. There is enough danger on this four day ride to Zul-Bazzir, so let there be none coming from within this caravan." Tairin paused, sighed and pushed back some errant strands of dark hair. Looking to Red, she added in even quieter tones, "You do not want her as an enemy. Please do what you can to ensure she thinks better of you when next she sees you. It is only for four days and once we are in the city, we will part ways graciously and be done with it. I suggest you find a hiding place for your bauble."
"Alright, let us finish and retire to our respective places. It has been a long day." Too long, she added silently.
"To give those of you, who rode to collect water, a rest, I will take first watch as I will not be able to sleep at this time. Let me know which shifts you will take and who I need to wake to take the second watch, please." Tairin took a sip of her lukewarm tea and looked into the flickering flames of the fire.
Patenemheb does his best to show warming body language towards Daniya, and no ill feeling. While her slurs against him and Yar-Ammon were uncalled for, he does not hate the girl. She has her motives for her machinations, and she likely has little true power here beyond what her wiles can garner.
The Wise Counsel scholar secret does not explicitly mention verbal components. Would a well-timed, drawn-out change of body language count to give the +4 insight bonus?
Wise Counsel (Ex): As a full round action, the scholar can aid an ally and grant an insight bonus equal to the scholar’s Wis bonus on the check.
If not, would a diplomacy test to aid Tairin be possible?
After the girl departs, he joins the quiet huddle near Tairin.
In a volume matching Tairin's, he replies calmly:
"I appreciate your words, all. I believed that it would not help for this man of Yar-Ammon accused of 'black rites' to argue with the young lady's insinuations, whether fickle or testing. I echo Tairin's recommendation to not succumb to rising bile stemming from her words, or those of the rest of the camp. On the matter of watches, I believe those who hauled water back here ought to rest first. I am content to take first watch also."
He awaits the responses of the others.