Yeah that works for me! And feel free to skip around a bunch, I’m good with that.
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Ridahne climbed up onto Tsura and scratched his neck lovingly. "Aye, I hope we aren't too harassed. Not by anything I can't handle. What happened back there in the woods with those rats," she hissed the word angrily, "was sort of a new experience for me. I've taken on capable people. I've taken on multiple people. But not the combination of the two, not like that. I hope that moving forward, we won't have so much trouble." Darin knew that Ridahne had flirted with death that night, but the danger she knew of was of bleeding out. Darin also knew she'd been strangled, as the purple handprint on her throat was only now just beginning to fade. And though Darin might guess, Ridahne did not want to tell her the full details of what that moment was like, or just how close that man was to killing her right there and then. If Mitaja had not eviscerated the second man holding her down, their leader would have succeeded that night. Darin didn't need to know that.
"That particular lot was waiting for us, and had been waiting for some time. It's why they were here, and why Salei and her team were called in weeks ago. I expect that if there are any more operatives on our path in Eluri, they'll also know something of our coming. Visions are strange in how they work--sometimes you get a clear, overwhelming picture of what's going to happen, when, and to whom. Sometimes you just see a face or a location. Sometimes you can work out the context and other times you don't know until the moment actually happens in real life, and you suddenly realize you've seen it before. For Eluri, they get them often enough that sometimes they never understand the things they see. In the capital, they've devoted an entire archive to the recording and study of visions. I've never actually been, but I hear its worth seeing. Someday I ought to add my own vision to the records for the sake of history, but not yet. Not with things as they are. Secrecy is still our ally, even in Eluri lands. Even if they know who we are, or simply know we're important but don't know why, secrecy will serve us well."
Ridahne nodded. "I figured we'd wander Eluri lands for a while before we ever made it to Azurei. Even if you were ready to go now, I'd advise to wait a bit. The Sols might know my purpose, but they're still not thrilled with me, like Salei. Not angry enough slay me on sight, but not friendly either. And then there's the public..." she sighed deeply. She didn't dread going back home quite so much as she did before they visited the Tree, but it was still going to be difficult. "A little time between my return and my crimes would do us all some good."
Ridahne pulled out her map and scanned over the Eluri portion of it. "Well, do you have any thoughts about a direction you might want to go? We can continue due south, or we can deviate southwest a bit and make a loop back around when we're ready to head towards Azurei. Keep in mind, too, how far south we go will determine our route into Azurei. You don't just...walk in to Azurei like we did to Eluri. The entire Western side, and most of the northern edge is rimmed by mountains, and beyond that is the Dust Sea. It's a hard road but I'm not worried about it--I'm an excellent Sea guide and there are plenty of clans that live up in the mountains that could help us resupply...theoretically. If we went much further south, all the way to the coast, we could actually barter passage on a ship to the capital. I'll leave the choice to you, and simply guide you on the best path whichever direction you choose."
---
The morning in Azurei was already starting to get hot, and Ajoran was looking forward to a good nap and a dip in the pool, as he'd been on duty all night. He kicked off his sandals and removed the chest plate of his office--less armor and more adornment, as the thin polished steel only went from his collarbone to midway down his pectorals and was painted with black and blue designs. It fit like an oversized necklace, and had an ornate tasseled counterweight on the back to keep balanced on his shoulders. He was just about to remove his blue silk sash from his shoulder when a young girl came to the door of the bath house and knocked on its frame. "Taja Ajoran, a message for you," the young paige announced.
Ajoran sighed, going to take the rolled up piece of paper, likely flown in by hawk or raven. He nodded and the girl scampered off. He wondered tiredly who'd send him a message. Honestly, he was afraid to open it. In the last four months, he'd received a lot of attention as the lover of the infamous Sol-Killer, and he wanted none of it. Some people begged for insider information, others demanded that a public execution should have taken place, and others questioned whether or not there was one. Ridahne had done her best to insulate him from the fallout, but even her efforts couldn't do it completely. It was brave of her to do that. And yet, if she'd asked him to, he would have stood with her to the end. But she wouldn't ask. Moon and stars, he missed her.
Ajoran slipped off his sash first, slinging it over a wooden peg on the wall before cracking the unmarked seal and unrolling the small piece of paper with a tired sigh. But his breath caught halfway out of his lips as he saw the sigil scrawled at the bottom of the page, and the single word written above it.
Soon.
It was her. She was alive and, he guessed, successful in her mission to find the Seed Bearer. If she'd found the girl, then he wasn't sure what her objective was next, but whether she intended to bring the Seed Bearer to Azurei, or if she'd already completed whatever duty she was called to, Ajoran knew at least that she was on her way home. To him. His heart was so full he thought it might burst, and though he wanted to keep the letter, he knew that if anyone found it, there'd be rumors. They didn't need any more of those, so he found a nearby candle and burned it. The only other person who needed to know this information was Hadian, and he would be sure her brother knew.
Ajoran disrobed and slipped into the pool, enjoying the cool water. He wondered who the Seed Bearer was, and if he'd get to meet her. Whoever she was, Ajoran was sure of one thing: she was no warrior, or else Ridahne would not be needed. But he did not know if the future Gardener was human, elf, or siren, or how old she was, or where she came from. But he knew his Ridahne would protect her, and his heart swelled with pride knowing his fiancee had such an honor.
"That particular lot was waiting for us, and had been waiting for some time. It's why they were here, and why Salei and her team were called in weeks ago. I expect that if there are any more operatives on our path in Eluri, they'll also know something of our coming. Visions are strange in how they work--sometimes you get a clear, overwhelming picture of what's going to happen, when, and to whom. Sometimes you just see a face or a location. Sometimes you can work out the context and other times you don't know until the moment actually happens in real life, and you suddenly realize you've seen it before. For Eluri, they get them often enough that sometimes they never understand the things they see. In the capital, they've devoted an entire archive to the recording and study of visions. I've never actually been, but I hear its worth seeing. Someday I ought to add my own vision to the records for the sake of history, but not yet. Not with things as they are. Secrecy is still our ally, even in Eluri lands. Even if they know who we are, or simply know we're important but don't know why, secrecy will serve us well."
Ridahne nodded. "I figured we'd wander Eluri lands for a while before we ever made it to Azurei. Even if you were ready to go now, I'd advise to wait a bit. The Sols might know my purpose, but they're still not thrilled with me, like Salei. Not angry enough slay me on sight, but not friendly either. And then there's the public..." she sighed deeply. She didn't dread going back home quite so much as she did before they visited the Tree, but it was still going to be difficult. "A little time between my return and my crimes would do us all some good."
Ridahne pulled out her map and scanned over the Eluri portion of it. "Well, do you have any thoughts about a direction you might want to go? We can continue due south, or we can deviate southwest a bit and make a loop back around when we're ready to head towards Azurei. Keep in mind, too, how far south we go will determine our route into Azurei. You don't just...walk in to Azurei like we did to Eluri. The entire Western side, and most of the northern edge is rimmed by mountains, and beyond that is the Dust Sea. It's a hard road but I'm not worried about it--I'm an excellent Sea guide and there are plenty of clans that live up in the mountains that could help us resupply...theoretically. If we went much further south, all the way to the coast, we could actually barter passage on a ship to the capital. I'll leave the choice to you, and simply guide you on the best path whichever direction you choose."
---
The morning in Azurei was already starting to get hot, and Ajoran was looking forward to a good nap and a dip in the pool, as he'd been on duty all night. He kicked off his sandals and removed the chest plate of his office--less armor and more adornment, as the thin polished steel only went from his collarbone to midway down his pectorals and was painted with black and blue designs. It fit like an oversized necklace, and had an ornate tasseled counterweight on the back to keep balanced on his shoulders. He was just about to remove his blue silk sash from his shoulder when a young girl came to the door of the bath house and knocked on its frame. "Taja Ajoran, a message for you," the young paige announced.
Ajoran sighed, going to take the rolled up piece of paper, likely flown in by hawk or raven. He nodded and the girl scampered off. He wondered tiredly who'd send him a message. Honestly, he was afraid to open it. In the last four months, he'd received a lot of attention as the lover of the infamous Sol-Killer, and he wanted none of it. Some people begged for insider information, others demanded that a public execution should have taken place, and others questioned whether or not there was one. Ridahne had done her best to insulate him from the fallout, but even her efforts couldn't do it completely. It was brave of her to do that. And yet, if she'd asked him to, he would have stood with her to the end. But she wouldn't ask. Moon and stars, he missed her.
Ajoran slipped off his sash first, slinging it over a wooden peg on the wall before cracking the unmarked seal and unrolling the small piece of paper with a tired sigh. But his breath caught halfway out of his lips as he saw the sigil scrawled at the bottom of the page, and the single word written above it.
Soon.
It was her. She was alive and, he guessed, successful in her mission to find the Seed Bearer. If she'd found the girl, then he wasn't sure what her objective was next, but whether she intended to bring the Seed Bearer to Azurei, or if she'd already completed whatever duty she was called to, Ajoran knew at least that she was on her way home. To him. His heart was so full he thought it might burst, and though he wanted to keep the letter, he knew that if anyone found it, there'd be rumors. They didn't need any more of those, so he found a nearby candle and burned it. The only other person who needed to know this information was Hadian, and he would be sure her brother knew.
Ajoran disrobed and slipped into the pool, enjoying the cool water. He wondered who the Seed Bearer was, and if he'd get to meet her. Whoever she was, Ajoran was sure of one thing: she was no warrior, or else Ridahne would not be needed. But he did not know if the future Gardener was human, elf, or siren, or how old she was, or where she came from. But he knew his Ridahne would protect her, and his heart swelled with pride knowing his fiancee had such an honor.
Berlin hadn't really thought through his request much--it was his go-to for demonstration purposes because it was easy and generally inoffensive and didn't violate any real sense of free will or autonomy, something he was very careful about. But it didn't even occur to him that the man's other hand was holding a cup of tea, and that would make clapping his hands...difficult. He was used to his own hand being slapped (as he was generally holding the person's hand when he did this) but even he hadn't expected the slosh of hot tea. Curse it all, Berlin, you fool... Berlin flicked the hot liquid off his own hand with a surprised hiss and a thoroughly embarrassed, "Damn! Sorry, that...wasn't supposed to happen like that. Sorry. Erm, here..." he quickly refilled the man's cup. "Yes, ah, if you'd like we can step inside my quarters or if you'd prefer, we can simply speak at the bow. My crew will mind their own business." That was a command as much as it was a promise. He gave a special glare to Rohaan, who he knew was far too capable of sneaking up close to listen in if he had the mind (he usually did).
Rohaan didn't have to say anything back to him to challenge that order. He broke his gaze from Yawar just long enough to squint at Berlin, testing to see how serious he really was. Berlin meant it. He spoke at full volume, but was confident enough in the fact that no one besides them knew a lick of Vokurian (there was no record of it that he knew of, and to learn it, you had to know one personally) so he spoke freely in the quick language.
"Don't test me today, Rheoaan. Not now."
"I don't trust them."
"No. I don't expect you to. But you trust me. You know that if it's something you should know, I'll fill you in later. You know that. Besides, I need someone looking after the other guests. If you start a fight, so help me I'll gut you bow to stern, but I trust you'll finish one if it starts. Do I make myself clear, Rheoaan?"
This was agreeable to the lad, so he nodded once, and Berlin nodded once back at him before returning his attention back to Kaga-Met. Rohaan spared a glance towards Wheel and his apparent friend before returning his unwavering gaze back to Yawar.
"Sorry, the lad's suffered too much at the hands of strangers to give them any trust. He takes a little extra convincing but he'll behave himself," Berlin assured Kaga-Met. "Shall we, then?"
Uban glanced around from Berlin, to Yawar, to Wheel and Millie, wondering what he was supposed to do with himself. Stand by, probably. He knew enough Vokurian to at least take a guess at what Berlin had told Rohaan, so he figured at least some of his duty was to see that peace was being kept. But he could do that with some tea, couldn't he? The hot liquid would at least help keep him awake anyway. Taking his empty coffee mug in one hand, he put another nine-fingered one on Rohaan's chest as if to keep him from following and shuffled over to where the teapot was, giving Yawar a kind of nervously polite smile as he did so. His gait was too relaxed to be anything resembling threatening, or even purposeful. As he poured himself a cup of tea, he said to the strange mariner, "Uban. Nice to uh, nice to meet you." Probably. "So...where ya from? I've never seen a um.........s-ship like that."
Rohaan didn't have to say anything back to him to challenge that order. He broke his gaze from Yawar just long enough to squint at Berlin, testing to see how serious he really was. Berlin meant it. He spoke at full volume, but was confident enough in the fact that no one besides them knew a lick of Vokurian (there was no record of it that he knew of, and to learn it, you had to know one personally) so he spoke freely in the quick language.
"Don't test me today, Rheoaan. Not now."
"I don't trust them."
"No. I don't expect you to. But you trust me. You know that if it's something you should know, I'll fill you in later. You know that. Besides, I need someone looking after the other guests. If you start a fight, so help me I'll gut you bow to stern, but I trust you'll finish one if it starts. Do I make myself clear, Rheoaan?"
This was agreeable to the lad, so he nodded once, and Berlin nodded once back at him before returning his attention back to Kaga-Met. Rohaan spared a glance towards Wheel and his apparent friend before returning his unwavering gaze back to Yawar.
"Sorry, the lad's suffered too much at the hands of strangers to give them any trust. He takes a little extra convincing but he'll behave himself," Berlin assured Kaga-Met. "Shall we, then?"
Uban glanced around from Berlin, to Yawar, to Wheel and Millie, wondering what he was supposed to do with himself. Stand by, probably. He knew enough Vokurian to at least take a guess at what Berlin had told Rohaan, so he figured at least some of his duty was to see that peace was being kept. But he could do that with some tea, couldn't he? The hot liquid would at least help keep him awake anyway. Taking his empty coffee mug in one hand, he put another nine-fingered one on Rohaan's chest as if to keep him from following and shuffled over to where the teapot was, giving Yawar a kind of nervously polite smile as he did so. His gait was too relaxed to be anything resembling threatening, or even purposeful. As he poured himself a cup of tea, he said to the strange mariner, "Uban. Nice to uh, nice to meet you." Probably. "So...where ya from? I've never seen a um.........s-ship like that."
The horses of Azurei were known for being spirited, high-energy creatures, nothing like the placid ponies the Eluri often kept as pack animals, or the work horses of farmlands. They were magnificent, sleek, swift beings, and were bred to withstand tough conditions and riding. Tsura, even among Azurei horses, was spirited, so he did not take the group's little vacation very well. At first, the rest had been welcome. But after a few days he got moody, and tossed his head at the stablehands that tended to him. So when Ridahne finally came to him speaking promises of open skies, he was very agreeable and excited. Once, when Ridahne stood too long talking to Konie, the buckskin horse took the elf's new gray shirt between his teeth and pulled back as if trying to coax her away. Ridahne understood how he felt. They were kindred spirits, she and him. It's why she chose him, and why he'd been so faithful to her over the years. They understood each other's fiery hearts better than most.
The elf had been very grateful for the break and for the hot meals and to not have to think about where or when she'd find water, or what foodstuffs could be found in the wilderness and what things had to be rationed. It was nice for a while to just sleep, and then wake to find a meal ready, and a good one too. But the comfort of Talyn and Konie's home became a cage after a while, and especially as she began to feel better, she started to get more and more restless. Even if it meant having to constantly think about supplies and routes, Ridahne was ready to leave.
Darin found her holding Tsura's reins and standing with the three Azurei. The mood between them was confused, and not at all like a group of old friends. Yet there was an acknowledgement there of kinship, one that could not be ignored. And though Salei had told her group of the truths she learned from Ridahne, there was still a tension. In their hearts, they might have pardoned her as a criminal, but they could not quite come to forgive her for the loss they still felt. Ridahne did not expect them to. So they stood there, sort of stiffly amiable.
"It was your kill. You should have the larger portion of the pay."
Ridahne shook her head. "I don't want it. I wasn't contracted to come out there and track them down, and I'd rather have not met them at all. It's yours for your time here."
"Then take some of it at least," Salei insisted, portioning off a smaller handful of the coins and holding it out. Ridahne opened her mouth to refuse, but Salei reached out her other hand, grabbed Ridahne's and slapped the coins into her forcibly outstretched palm. Though the exchange seemed aggressive, Ridahne didn't even bat an eye. That's how they did things down south.
"Fine. Take care of yourselves on the road, whether you take the long way or the Dust Sea. If you don't know the Sea, get a guide. Trust me, I've cleaned up a lot of messes out there."
"Right. Good luck...with...whatever you're doing."
"I'll see you three back at the palace in due time," Ridahne said.
The man scoffed. "You won't. The Sols will have you killed before you set foot on the first step."
Ridahne just laughed drily, though it ached a little still. She was well-healed now, but it would take a long time for the aches and pains to really go away completely. "Probably. We'll see." And with that she turned to the approaching Darin.
"These people have been decent hosts, but let's get out of here." She laughed a little. "Some stupid part of me is longing for sleeping outdoors. I'll regret that in a week. Are you all ready? Tsura's all packed up and Mitaja..." The elf gave a withering look to the cat, who was lying on her side while a gaggle of children petted her silky fur. "...She'll come when she's called."
The elf had been very grateful for the break and for the hot meals and to not have to think about where or when she'd find water, or what foodstuffs could be found in the wilderness and what things had to be rationed. It was nice for a while to just sleep, and then wake to find a meal ready, and a good one too. But the comfort of Talyn and Konie's home became a cage after a while, and especially as she began to feel better, she started to get more and more restless. Even if it meant having to constantly think about supplies and routes, Ridahne was ready to leave.
Darin found her holding Tsura's reins and standing with the three Azurei. The mood between them was confused, and not at all like a group of old friends. Yet there was an acknowledgement there of kinship, one that could not be ignored. And though Salei had told her group of the truths she learned from Ridahne, there was still a tension. In their hearts, they might have pardoned her as a criminal, but they could not quite come to forgive her for the loss they still felt. Ridahne did not expect them to. So they stood there, sort of stiffly amiable.
"It was your kill. You should have the larger portion of the pay."
Ridahne shook her head. "I don't want it. I wasn't contracted to come out there and track them down, and I'd rather have not met them at all. It's yours for your time here."
"Then take some of it at least," Salei insisted, portioning off a smaller handful of the coins and holding it out. Ridahne opened her mouth to refuse, but Salei reached out her other hand, grabbed Ridahne's and slapped the coins into her forcibly outstretched palm. Though the exchange seemed aggressive, Ridahne didn't even bat an eye. That's how they did things down south.
"Fine. Take care of yourselves on the road, whether you take the long way or the Dust Sea. If you don't know the Sea, get a guide. Trust me, I've cleaned up a lot of messes out there."
"Right. Good luck...with...whatever you're doing."
"I'll see you three back at the palace in due time," Ridahne said.
The man scoffed. "You won't. The Sols will have you killed before you set foot on the first step."
Ridahne just laughed drily, though it ached a little still. She was well-healed now, but it would take a long time for the aches and pains to really go away completely. "Probably. We'll see." And with that she turned to the approaching Darin.
"These people have been decent hosts, but let's get out of here." She laughed a little. "Some stupid part of me is longing for sleeping outdoors. I'll regret that in a week. Are you all ready? Tsura's all packed up and Mitaja..." The elf gave a withering look to the cat, who was lying on her side while a gaggle of children petted her silky fur. "...She'll come when she's called."
Sure!
The air aboard the Borealis became static as everyone watched the exchange between this tentacled stranger and Wheel. From the first word, Berlin quickly put it together that they knew each other, and he had yet to decide if that was a good thing or not. So far it was pointing to not. And yet...he knew if Wheel really wanted this person dead, they'd be dead without so much fuss or drama. He liked that about Wheel, he was practical. So he waited. With bated breath he waited and hoped that his crew was ready to fight if it came down to it. He hoped the Swift Justice didn't breathe fire. Did all dragons breathe fire of some sort or another? Could that one anymore, even if it once could?
Uban bit into his apple with care in order to be as quiet as possible; he absolutely wanted to hear what was being said and without too much crunching to drown it out. He could see tentacle-lady tensing, and inwardly he groaned. Why'd he have to pick today to show off and experiment? If he was honest with himself, his current wildest fantasy was for someone to feed him in bed, and here they were about to engage with some people that were--dare he think it--even weirder than they were. He felt exhausted. Uban, perhaps even more than Berlin, did not want to see this whole exchange escalate.
So when the woman vaulted across the deck and managed to weird him out more than Rohaan (an impressive feat), and said shifter instantly dropped from his seat on the gunnel, Uban shot a hand out faster than he thought he was currently capable of to grab the lad's shirt collar. He yanked back a little, earning a strangled "Ghhllk" sound from the boy, who immediately turned his scowl on his mate.
"Shh," Uban hissed even though the boy hadn't said anything. "Wheel can handle himself, don't make this worse. Besides, I'd like to see her just try to stick him with that spear."
Rohaan whispered a little wicked cackle. "Yeah!" He was right, Wheel could handle himself. And that freed up his attention to now focus on the other two, especially the man with the glass circles over his eyes. Rohaan wanted those. If he had them, their next trip into port would be a whole new experience for him, one he thought denied to him at birth. He could hide in plain sight. So those infamous lapis eyes settled with the weight of boulders on the man with the spectacles. If things went sideways, he would be Rohaan's first target.
The wind rattled the tack and made the water slop against the sides of the boat, but still, no one fired any shots or punctured any lungs. And Berlin's expression went from tight to unabashedly surprised as Wheel and the woman...hugged? He actually blinked a few times just in case. No, still there. And it was still him and not some cursed (er, doubly cursed) version of Wheel, Berlin realized as they both served them all up such sour frowns as would turn new milk. Berlin actually sighed, feeling like he'd just dodged a bullet. He stole a quick glance to Pieter that simultaneously said 'thank the stars' and 'this is why I drink.'
The captain turned back to Kaga-met and his mate. "Seems we have some mutual friends. Good. Very good." He seemed a little more relaxed, a little more assured of their odd alliance. Berlin picked up two mugs of mint tea and offered them to Kaga-Met and Yawar. "Cheers, mates." He drank from his own mug, wishing it was of better quality. Mm, he'd have to shake down a merchant ship soon to get them some. "So...I know we don't look like we'd be much of an asset to you and yours, but I've hand-picked my crew over the years and I'm very pleased with what they're capable of. Hana here is a right-fine mage and has been working with Uban there to create some special explosives. Uban can summon lighting from his hands." Uban held up his thumb and forefinger and let a short arc jump between them for show, but then he found himself only wishing for his hammock even more. "The lad there's a shape shifter, as you've seen. A terror in battle, but also a first-rate topman, if I may say so myself." He added the last bit with a little bit of an edge, as if to preemptively defend the lad and Berlin's choice to keep him on board. "Pieter's been my friend and shipmate for many years, and he has a knowledge of the...darker parts of the sea that has proven invaluable. Wheel..." he glanced back to where he and the woman had retreated and simply said, "is one of the best warriors I've ever seen. And I..." Berlin gave an honestly embarrassed smile. "I'm not sure how to describe me. Perhaps I could demonstrate? May I have your hand a moment?"
Berlin reached out one of his own to Kaga-Met as if to shake hands, offering such a charming smile as he did it. "Now, I'm going to ask you to do two very simple actions. And I would like for you to not comply. Ready?" Berlin let his power flow into Kaga-Met and said, "Tell me your name, and clap your hands once." Nothing odd or humiliating, but enough to get his point across. Berlin let go of his hand. "So...that's us. How long have you been chasing this lot? Do you know much about them? I was sort of planning to sneak aboard their ships one by one and...sow a little chaos. Make them kill each other. Once our cover was blown I figured..." Berlin shrugged. "We'd blow them to bits, burn down their ships, you know. But if you've got other thoughts, I'd like to hear them."
Uban bit into his apple with care in order to be as quiet as possible; he absolutely wanted to hear what was being said and without too much crunching to drown it out. He could see tentacle-lady tensing, and inwardly he groaned. Why'd he have to pick today to show off and experiment? If he was honest with himself, his current wildest fantasy was for someone to feed him in bed, and here they were about to engage with some people that were--dare he think it--even weirder than they were. He felt exhausted. Uban, perhaps even more than Berlin, did not want to see this whole exchange escalate.
So when the woman vaulted across the deck and managed to weird him out more than Rohaan (an impressive feat), and said shifter instantly dropped from his seat on the gunnel, Uban shot a hand out faster than he thought he was currently capable of to grab the lad's shirt collar. He yanked back a little, earning a strangled "Ghhllk" sound from the boy, who immediately turned his scowl on his mate.
"Shh," Uban hissed even though the boy hadn't said anything. "Wheel can handle himself, don't make this worse. Besides, I'd like to see her just try to stick him with that spear."
Rohaan whispered a little wicked cackle. "Yeah!" He was right, Wheel could handle himself. And that freed up his attention to now focus on the other two, especially the man with the glass circles over his eyes. Rohaan wanted those. If he had them, their next trip into port would be a whole new experience for him, one he thought denied to him at birth. He could hide in plain sight. So those infamous lapis eyes settled with the weight of boulders on the man with the spectacles. If things went sideways, he would be Rohaan's first target.
The wind rattled the tack and made the water slop against the sides of the boat, but still, no one fired any shots or punctured any lungs. And Berlin's expression went from tight to unabashedly surprised as Wheel and the woman...hugged? He actually blinked a few times just in case. No, still there. And it was still him and not some cursed (er, doubly cursed) version of Wheel, Berlin realized as they both served them all up such sour frowns as would turn new milk. Berlin actually sighed, feeling like he'd just dodged a bullet. He stole a quick glance to Pieter that simultaneously said 'thank the stars' and 'this is why I drink.'
The captain turned back to Kaga-met and his mate. "Seems we have some mutual friends. Good. Very good." He seemed a little more relaxed, a little more assured of their odd alliance. Berlin picked up two mugs of mint tea and offered them to Kaga-Met and Yawar. "Cheers, mates." He drank from his own mug, wishing it was of better quality. Mm, he'd have to shake down a merchant ship soon to get them some. "So...I know we don't look like we'd be much of an asset to you and yours, but I've hand-picked my crew over the years and I'm very pleased with what they're capable of. Hana here is a right-fine mage and has been working with Uban there to create some special explosives. Uban can summon lighting from his hands." Uban held up his thumb and forefinger and let a short arc jump between them for show, but then he found himself only wishing for his hammock even more. "The lad there's a shape shifter, as you've seen. A terror in battle, but also a first-rate topman, if I may say so myself." He added the last bit with a little bit of an edge, as if to preemptively defend the lad and Berlin's choice to keep him on board. "Pieter's been my friend and shipmate for many years, and he has a knowledge of the...darker parts of the sea that has proven invaluable. Wheel..." he glanced back to where he and the woman had retreated and simply said, "is one of the best warriors I've ever seen. And I..." Berlin gave an honestly embarrassed smile. "I'm not sure how to describe me. Perhaps I could demonstrate? May I have your hand a moment?"
Berlin reached out one of his own to Kaga-Met as if to shake hands, offering such a charming smile as he did it. "Now, I'm going to ask you to do two very simple actions. And I would like for you to not comply. Ready?" Berlin let his power flow into Kaga-Met and said, "Tell me your name, and clap your hands once." Nothing odd or humiliating, but enough to get his point across. Berlin let go of his hand. "So...that's us. How long have you been chasing this lot? Do you know much about them? I was sort of planning to sneak aboard their ships one by one and...sow a little chaos. Make them kill each other. Once our cover was blown I figured..." Berlin shrugged. "We'd blow them to bits, burn down their ships, you know. But if you've got other thoughts, I'd like to hear them."
"You are good at it," Ridahne added. It was true. Though Ridahne was wrapped up in a lot of events and feelings and thoughts that night at the Farm, she had still heard Darin play. "I wonder...if he hadn't left, you know, if you didn't have all those feelings associated with him tied to playing, would you enjoy it more? I only ask because if it's something you like, then make it yours. Not his. Be better than he ever was, play different styles of music he never even heard, play it for yourself. Not for him. On the other hand..." a small smile crept onto her lips, "if it's really not your thing and you want nothing to do with it anymore, I'm sure Mitaja will hold him down while you break his nose with it. She's very good at it, aren't you girl?" The cat, who seemed to know she was being spoken about, rolled over onto her side with her belly facing the fire.
Ridahne sighed longingly. "We'll have to do it before we get too far south then! You make it sound amazing. I like apples, and I love cinnamon, so it must be good, right?" Darin rose and announced she was going out to check on the animals and to retrieve Ridahne's blades. The elf had to admit, that was a relief. She was honored to hold Darin's, but her own felt more comfortable in her hands. "Could you bring my cloak too? Thank you." It was much too cold for her liking, even with the fire going strong. "You ought to take Mitaja with you." There was an unspoken 'just in case' laced into that suggestion, though Ridahne knew if there was any trouble, it wouldn't be with Darin. Mostly she was worried the girl might fall over at any minute and she wanted to at least give her something to collapse onto that wouldn't give her a concussion, too.
Ridahne watched her go and, leaning heavy against the wall, she let her eyes close. It was strange to feel so exhausted and yet so cooped up at the same time. She sat there with the relative silence of only the crackling fire, and felt herself just about to drift into a bit of sleep when a small noise made her hold her breath and listen. Ridahne released that held breath in a heavy sigh. She knew it would happen, but it didn't make the prospect any easier.
"I knew you'd come," she said resignedly.
A dark figure came from the short hallway that led towards Konie's and Talyn's bedrooms. In through one of the back windows, Ridahne guessed. And had been inside for some time, just waiting for the opportune moment. Which was, as Ridahne knew, when the target was alone. The woman had her own blade--a straight, slim one with dual edges and a clipped point--in hand and reflecting the firelight already. She took a few steps closer, then stopped.
"If you've come to kill me, then do it, I've still got a little fight left in me. No sense in making this dramatic. Though if you want my advice? Don't. Killing me would undo things you'd give both your arms to set right again. Not to mention your Sota-Sol would not be so pleased as you think."
She came closer and lifted her hood. Ridahne knew her. Not well, but she recognized her nonetheless.
"Ah, Salei, isn't it?"
"You're that Atakharan girl, aren't you?"
"Why is it everyone remembers I'm the poor Atakharan rat, but never my name?" Ridahne sighed. "Ridahne. My name is Ridahne. And yes, I am she whom you seek." Ridahne turned her face so that Salei could get a full view of her ojih, and thus the particular mark that painted her as a traitor.
Salei flinched in something like horror or disgust and gripped her dagger tighter, visibly quivering with rage. And yet...Ridahne sensed a hesitation there too. It was then that she realized this eija was doing what Ridahne could not. In the face of a traitor, she could not bring herself to slaughter one of her own. Ridahne gave a small, soft, bitter laugh at this realization.
"Why?" Salei finally seethed. "Why did you do it?"
Ridahne sighed. "You and I both know what you came here to do, Salei. I don't have the energy to spare for inflamed banter."
"NO! I want to know why! What kind of snake swears an oath to a Sol and then turns around and breaks it! Not just her or her successor, but Takhun? Your partner!" Salei was on the brink of tears, she was so angry and upset, though she kept the volume of her voice low so as not to attract attention from outside.
"I'll mourn the loss of Takhun a hundred times over. I will weep for my friend to the grave. Do not mistake me, killing Takhun is the worst sin I have ever and will ever commit. But there's so much you don't know, Salei."
"Then tell me! I want to know why!"
"Will you believe me if I do? Everyone always wants answers but nobody wants the truth."
Salei paused. "...Do you promise to give it?"
Ridahne touched her forehead. "I swear by the blood of my ancestors, by my blades, by the Night Sky and the stars above, by the Great Tree itself, that what I have to tell you is the whole and honest truth."
Even though Salei had asked for a promise, she clearly was not expecting one of that magnitude. Ridahne had gone right for every single one of the major, sacred things people swore by, and managed to do them all at once. In particular, she swore by the Tree. If it was ever possible to lie after swearing an oath like that, Salei had never heard tell of it. She took a slow breath, sheathed her blade at her hip, and slowly lowered herself to her knees so she could sit. "Okay, Traitor. I'm listening."
"Good."
Ridahne gave a quick but relatively full account of the events that led to her eventual treason, though she left out the events that followed. That was her business, not Salei's.
Salei shook her head. "That can't be true. Khaltira-Sol wouldn't do that, would she? And surely Takhun wouldn't have gone with it?" But there wasn't much conviction in her tone. She knew the truth of it, deep down.
"I wish nothing I said was true, Salei. But it is. All of it. And I did only what I was trained to do, what I was tasked to do. If that makes me a traitor, then...well, so be it. So, now that you know, are you still going to kill me?"
Salei did not lift her eyes from the floor. "I don't know. I'm not so sure anymore."
Ridahne smirked. "You never were. But honestly? I have much to do before my inevitable time. Things you would rejoice to see completed. I can't tell you details, my errand is private, but killing me would not bring the peace you desire, nor would it bring back your Sol."
Salei considered for a moment, then looking towards the door asked, "The boy? Who's he to you?"
Ridahne offered a rueful smile. "It's a lonely life, that of the traitor. Even the worst monsters need company, too. We met by chance on the road and happened to be going the same way. You could say we're friends now." It wasn't untrue, but it left out a lot of important details.
"There's whispers going around the village about him, you know..."
Ridahne laughed. "You know how Eluri are. No disrespect, they've been good hosts, mostly. But they don't spend enough time in the present." This was a common enough joke in Azurei that even Salei cracked a tiny smile. Ridahne waved a dismissive hand. "Besides, they don't know him like I do." There was a silence, and then Ridahne added, "When do you go back?"
"Now that the Red Hand is taken care of? I guess I should thank you, by the way. We've been wondering how one Azurei and one farm boy could best that pack...but now that I see you, I understand. I didn't realize we had an eija-alihn in our midst. But I expect we'll be heading back soon."
"Mm. About that, inquire about them as you go, and tell the other eija to keep an ear open for rumor of them. Something tells me they aren't just a local problem..."
Ridahne sighed longingly. "We'll have to do it before we get too far south then! You make it sound amazing. I like apples, and I love cinnamon, so it must be good, right?" Darin rose and announced she was going out to check on the animals and to retrieve Ridahne's blades. The elf had to admit, that was a relief. She was honored to hold Darin's, but her own felt more comfortable in her hands. "Could you bring my cloak too? Thank you." It was much too cold for her liking, even with the fire going strong. "You ought to take Mitaja with you." There was an unspoken 'just in case' laced into that suggestion, though Ridahne knew if there was any trouble, it wouldn't be with Darin. Mostly she was worried the girl might fall over at any minute and she wanted to at least give her something to collapse onto that wouldn't give her a concussion, too.
Ridahne watched her go and, leaning heavy against the wall, she let her eyes close. It was strange to feel so exhausted and yet so cooped up at the same time. She sat there with the relative silence of only the crackling fire, and felt herself just about to drift into a bit of sleep when a small noise made her hold her breath and listen. Ridahne released that held breath in a heavy sigh. She knew it would happen, but it didn't make the prospect any easier.
"I knew you'd come," she said resignedly.
A dark figure came from the short hallway that led towards Konie's and Talyn's bedrooms. In through one of the back windows, Ridahne guessed. And had been inside for some time, just waiting for the opportune moment. Which was, as Ridahne knew, when the target was alone. The woman had her own blade--a straight, slim one with dual edges and a clipped point--in hand and reflecting the firelight already. She took a few steps closer, then stopped.
"If you've come to kill me, then do it, I've still got a little fight left in me. No sense in making this dramatic. Though if you want my advice? Don't. Killing me would undo things you'd give both your arms to set right again. Not to mention your Sota-Sol would not be so pleased as you think."
She came closer and lifted her hood. Ridahne knew her. Not well, but she recognized her nonetheless.
"Ah, Salei, isn't it?"
"You're that Atakharan girl, aren't you?"
"Why is it everyone remembers I'm the poor Atakharan rat, but never my name?" Ridahne sighed. "Ridahne. My name is Ridahne. And yes, I am she whom you seek." Ridahne turned her face so that Salei could get a full view of her ojih, and thus the particular mark that painted her as a traitor.
Salei flinched in something like horror or disgust and gripped her dagger tighter, visibly quivering with rage. And yet...Ridahne sensed a hesitation there too. It was then that she realized this eija was doing what Ridahne could not. In the face of a traitor, she could not bring herself to slaughter one of her own. Ridahne gave a small, soft, bitter laugh at this realization.
"Why?" Salei finally seethed. "Why did you do it?"
Ridahne sighed. "You and I both know what you came here to do, Salei. I don't have the energy to spare for inflamed banter."
"NO! I want to know why! What kind of snake swears an oath to a Sol and then turns around and breaks it! Not just her or her successor, but Takhun? Your partner!" Salei was on the brink of tears, she was so angry and upset, though she kept the volume of her voice low so as not to attract attention from outside.
"I'll mourn the loss of Takhun a hundred times over. I will weep for my friend to the grave. Do not mistake me, killing Takhun is the worst sin I have ever and will ever commit. But there's so much you don't know, Salei."
"Then tell me! I want to know why!"
"Will you believe me if I do? Everyone always wants answers but nobody wants the truth."
Salei paused. "...Do you promise to give it?"
Ridahne touched her forehead. "I swear by the blood of my ancestors, by my blades, by the Night Sky and the stars above, by the Great Tree itself, that what I have to tell you is the whole and honest truth."
Even though Salei had asked for a promise, she clearly was not expecting one of that magnitude. Ridahne had gone right for every single one of the major, sacred things people swore by, and managed to do them all at once. In particular, she swore by the Tree. If it was ever possible to lie after swearing an oath like that, Salei had never heard tell of it. She took a slow breath, sheathed her blade at her hip, and slowly lowered herself to her knees so she could sit. "Okay, Traitor. I'm listening."
"Good."
Ridahne gave a quick but relatively full account of the events that led to her eventual treason, though she left out the events that followed. That was her business, not Salei's.
Salei shook her head. "That can't be true. Khaltira-Sol wouldn't do that, would she? And surely Takhun wouldn't have gone with it?" But there wasn't much conviction in her tone. She knew the truth of it, deep down.
"I wish nothing I said was true, Salei. But it is. All of it. And I did only what I was trained to do, what I was tasked to do. If that makes me a traitor, then...well, so be it. So, now that you know, are you still going to kill me?"
Salei did not lift her eyes from the floor. "I don't know. I'm not so sure anymore."
Ridahne smirked. "You never were. But honestly? I have much to do before my inevitable time. Things you would rejoice to see completed. I can't tell you details, my errand is private, but killing me would not bring the peace you desire, nor would it bring back your Sol."
Salei considered for a moment, then looking towards the door asked, "The boy? Who's he to you?"
Ridahne offered a rueful smile. "It's a lonely life, that of the traitor. Even the worst monsters need company, too. We met by chance on the road and happened to be going the same way. You could say we're friends now." It wasn't untrue, but it left out a lot of important details.
"There's whispers going around the village about him, you know..."
Ridahne laughed. "You know how Eluri are. No disrespect, they've been good hosts, mostly. But they don't spend enough time in the present." This was a common enough joke in Azurei that even Salei cracked a tiny smile. Ridahne waved a dismissive hand. "Besides, they don't know him like I do." There was a silence, and then Ridahne added, "When do you go back?"
"Now that the Red Hand is taken care of? I guess I should thank you, by the way. We've been wondering how one Azurei and one farm boy could best that pack...but now that I see you, I understand. I didn't realize we had an eija-alihn in our midst. But I expect we'll be heading back soon."
"Mm. About that, inquire about them as you go, and tell the other eija to keep an ear open for rumor of them. Something tells me they aren't just a local problem..."
"Pastry?" That was a word she wasn't terribly familiar with. She'd heard it before in her travels north, but never at home. She screwed up her inked face trying to think of where she'd heard it, and even repeated it to herself a few times. "Is that the kind of bread that has a lot of butter in it? And you have to keep it cold or else it doesn't work? I think I had something like that once, but never at home. It's too hot to do anything like that there. We do lots of buns though, either baked or steamed. And flatbreads too, do they have that up North? Someday you'll have to make me an apple pie, and I will make you proper curry and show you coconuts."
Ridahne gave an understanding nod to Darin's tale of how her and her mother got by after her father left. Neither of Ridahne's parents left--they were madly in love with one another--but yet she still found herself without a mother at a young age. She knew that pain, the sudden chaos as the rhythm of her family's life was suddenly upheaved. She supposed she was thankful that both she and Hadian were well established on their own by the time their father was lost at sea.
"Ravi would tell me that you and I were not so different as I thought." She said with a sad smile. "We might have different stories, but I know the chaos losing a parent can wreak on your life. Emotionally, but also in a practical way. We were always poor but we made it through just fine. When Ikali got sick, we suddenly found ourselves with half the income, and Hadian and I had to fend for ourselves while my father was at sea. Ikali was usually the one who went hunting, too. She taught me a lot about how to handle cats, horses, and about the Dust Sea. But there were some lessons I had to learn the hard way, and I ended up becoming a hunter at far too young an age, for better or worse." She smiled. "I feel like that worked out in my favor in the end. Anyway, it turns out that you make a lot of money being an eija, and even more as an eija-alihn. Except I never had anything to really spend it on besides a horse and some good tattoo ink. I sent a lot of it to Hadian so he could focus on getting married--I wonder if he has while I've been gone? But when we get to Azurei, I will see to it you have all the chocolate and coffee and coconuts you could ever want."
Ridahne looked down at her feet, scowling at her shoes for a moment before unlacing them and peeling them off with some difficulty. It hadn't been long since she'd taken them off, but it sure felt like it. And why she'd put up with them for all this time sitting in Konie and Talyn's home, she didn't know. "Hmph, no, there wasn't much free time," she chuckled. "But when I was younger I apparently liked to spend it getting in trouble. I fought a lot. Not all of them were real squabbles, some of them were, you know, playing. A wrestling contest or something. I swam a lot, even when I got older. It's true, the ocean does taste like salt. It's a cruel thing to live in the driest place in all of Astra, and have this big huge body of water right at your doorstep, but you can't drink it. The salt in it will make you sick and even more thirsty. But the waves are fun to play in. I spend a lot of time diving for shellfish and sometimes seahorses. Rich people like to keep them as pets, and they'll pay a hefty price for them. When it came time to chose a sigil (if you make it to the courts, suddenly your clan is important enough for a sigil) I chose a seahorse for that reason. I've done a bit of bone or stone carving, but Ajoran's better at it than I am. I do a lot of tattooing, for myself or others. I actually wanted to be a master tattooer when I was a little girl, but for whatever reason they didn't take me as an apprentice. What about you? I know you play the fiddle, but what else do you do when you have the time?"
Ridahne gave an understanding nod to Darin's tale of how her and her mother got by after her father left. Neither of Ridahne's parents left--they were madly in love with one another--but yet she still found herself without a mother at a young age. She knew that pain, the sudden chaos as the rhythm of her family's life was suddenly upheaved. She supposed she was thankful that both she and Hadian were well established on their own by the time their father was lost at sea.
"Ravi would tell me that you and I were not so different as I thought." She said with a sad smile. "We might have different stories, but I know the chaos losing a parent can wreak on your life. Emotionally, but also in a practical way. We were always poor but we made it through just fine. When Ikali got sick, we suddenly found ourselves with half the income, and Hadian and I had to fend for ourselves while my father was at sea. Ikali was usually the one who went hunting, too. She taught me a lot about how to handle cats, horses, and about the Dust Sea. But there were some lessons I had to learn the hard way, and I ended up becoming a hunter at far too young an age, for better or worse." She smiled. "I feel like that worked out in my favor in the end. Anyway, it turns out that you make a lot of money being an eija, and even more as an eija-alihn. Except I never had anything to really spend it on besides a horse and some good tattoo ink. I sent a lot of it to Hadian so he could focus on getting married--I wonder if he has while I've been gone? But when we get to Azurei, I will see to it you have all the chocolate and coffee and coconuts you could ever want."
Ridahne looked down at her feet, scowling at her shoes for a moment before unlacing them and peeling them off with some difficulty. It hadn't been long since she'd taken them off, but it sure felt like it. And why she'd put up with them for all this time sitting in Konie and Talyn's home, she didn't know. "Hmph, no, there wasn't much free time," she chuckled. "But when I was younger I apparently liked to spend it getting in trouble. I fought a lot. Not all of them were real squabbles, some of them were, you know, playing. A wrestling contest or something. I swam a lot, even when I got older. It's true, the ocean does taste like salt. It's a cruel thing to live in the driest place in all of Astra, and have this big huge body of water right at your doorstep, but you can't drink it. The salt in it will make you sick and even more thirsty. But the waves are fun to play in. I spend a lot of time diving for shellfish and sometimes seahorses. Rich people like to keep them as pets, and they'll pay a hefty price for them. When it came time to chose a sigil (if you make it to the courts, suddenly your clan is important enough for a sigil) I chose a seahorse for that reason. I've done a bit of bone or stone carving, but Ajoran's better at it than I am. I do a lot of tattooing, for myself or others. I actually wanted to be a master tattooer when I was a little girl, but for whatever reason they didn't take me as an apprentice. What about you? I know you play the fiddle, but what else do you do when you have the time?"
Berlin smiled and looked over Kaga-Met's shoulder towards the man's er...ship. "I can imagine." Does that thing feel pain...? Just how sentient is it? "I'm sorry to say it's not excellent tea, but it serves well enough. Do you like mint?" Sometimes it was hard to believe he was a pirate with the way he acted. Most people who saw him apart from his crew or his ship were sort of confused by the juxtaposition of his clothes and his manners. Berlin just knew how to talk to people, and he always said words were his best weapons. That and maybe a loaded pistol...
Rohaan trotted back up topside not long after with a beat-up wooden tray that looks like it'd kissed fire at one point or another, and a mismatched set of wooden and chipped ceramic mugs stacked beside a small black kettle. He set this down on an upturned crate that he kicked irreverently into place. He looked to Berlin, who nodded his approval, and then the lad went to go sit on the gunnel next to where Uban leaned against it. The man was ready and capable of engaging in a fight if he had to, but he was deeply hoping he wouldn't have to. Rohaan pushed an apple into his hand that he seemed to have procured from nowhere.
"Sweet Tevira lad, you're the best," Uban whispered back.
Berlin was just pouring tea into his collection of sad, mismatched cups when he saw tentacle-lady's spear lift. His blood ran cold for a second, and his brain raced. What happened? Hadn't it been going well? Hadn't--he took a look around, quickly counting heads. Rohaan, Uban, Hana, Pieter...
Wheel.
Damn. DAMN. Berlin felt a sudden rush of hot, boiling anger rise up in him but he held it in check, and the only evidence of it was a quiet storm behind his eyes. This was a delicate situation and that was a sure fire way to screw it up. He'd box his ears later though when he didn't have to play host.
Berlin smiled tersely, and if he let a bit of his magical charm loose while he did it, he could hardly be blamed. He slowly set the mug and kettle down and spread his arms in a placating gesture. "Easy now, there's no need for weapons among allies." He emphasized that last word a bit. "Wheel." He kept his voice reasonably low, but it had an edge to it that Berlin rarely used. "Stand down." Again, he did not bark, but the restraint in his tone made it seem to his experienced crew like he'd shouted. "The only bloodshed here will be the blood of slavers. We've got a common goal, Kaga-met. I assure you I'm more interested in my quarry than fighting you and yours."
Rohaan trotted back up topside not long after with a beat-up wooden tray that looks like it'd kissed fire at one point or another, and a mismatched set of wooden and chipped ceramic mugs stacked beside a small black kettle. He set this down on an upturned crate that he kicked irreverently into place. He looked to Berlin, who nodded his approval, and then the lad went to go sit on the gunnel next to where Uban leaned against it. The man was ready and capable of engaging in a fight if he had to, but he was deeply hoping he wouldn't have to. Rohaan pushed an apple into his hand that he seemed to have procured from nowhere.
"Sweet Tevira lad, you're the best," Uban whispered back.
Berlin was just pouring tea into his collection of sad, mismatched cups when he saw tentacle-lady's spear lift. His blood ran cold for a second, and his brain raced. What happened? Hadn't it been going well? Hadn't--he took a look around, quickly counting heads. Rohaan, Uban, Hana, Pieter...
Wheel.
Damn. DAMN. Berlin felt a sudden rush of hot, boiling anger rise up in him but he held it in check, and the only evidence of it was a quiet storm behind his eyes. This was a delicate situation and that was a sure fire way to screw it up. He'd box his ears later though when he didn't have to play host.
Berlin smiled tersely, and if he let a bit of his magical charm loose while he did it, he could hardly be blamed. He slowly set the mug and kettle down and spread his arms in a placating gesture. "Easy now, there's no need for weapons among allies." He emphasized that last word a bit. "Wheel." He kept his voice reasonably low, but it had an edge to it that Berlin rarely used. "Stand down." Again, he did not bark, but the restraint in his tone made it seem to his experienced crew like he'd shouted. "The only bloodshed here will be the blood of slavers. We've got a common goal, Kaga-met. I assure you I'm more interested in my quarry than fighting you and yours."
Ridahne might have been considered young among elves, but among humans, she was ancient. One hundred and three years was a long time to be alive for a human. And Ridahne supposed that it was a long time. Though she was young, she'd lived a lot of life in those hundred years. She was experienced, and had the privilege of traveling and living in two completely different social classes--practically two different worlds. This often made her seem a little jaded, like she'd seen what life had to offer and was not always impressed. It was a rare thing indeed for her to learn of something she had not seen before, or knew very little about. But Darin was chock full of them today. She'd heard of snow, but never seen it, and she did not know what apple pie was, not exactly. It felt wondrous to learn of something completely new to her.
"Apple pie...? I'm familiar with apples...but..not pie. You bake it so...it is a bread?" She indicated a loaf shape with her hands. "I'm picturing raisin bread that we have, like a loaf or sometimes a smaller bun with golden raisins and goat cheese mixed in it, but with apple? Probably not it but I can't think of anything else it'd be similar to." She had to agree though that the sun did have a smell, in a way. Maybe not directly, but it changed the way other things smelled in a distinct way. At home it smelled of dust, and of salt, of earth, but the dry sort, not the wet, black variety found elsewhere.
Ridahne's eyes lit up a bit. "So you've seen snow? Touched it? I've heard about it, and that it's cold, but I've never seen it before. I've seen paintings, so I sort of know what it looks like, and I've heard that it's often on high mountain peaks, but our mountains are too old and too small to have snow. Merchant ship crewmen at the docks would talk about it sometimes when they went up north. They say that the sea splashes up on the deck and wets the ropes and the sails, and the water changes. It gets hard, like it's not water anymore, like it's glass. You call it ice, yes? But they say snow is not like ice, it is soft and almost like sand but lighter. They say you can jump into a pile of it and it goes POOF!" She illustrated this with her hands and a smile. "I want to know more about snow. What's it like? I heard that children use it to construct effigies of odd, limbless, fat men--is that true? What is this for? Is it a religious ritual? Or a ward against evil spirits?" She asked this with all the dead-serious earnestness of a scholar. Sailors were known to spin tall tales, but she'd heard that one enough times to believe it.
Ridahne had to laugh at 'is that a safe question'. They did have a rocky start, didn't they? But they were getting better. Better at communicating and better at understanding one another. And Ridahne did not feel so ashamed of herself as she once did, and it made it easier to open up. "I also love porridge. We eat it with cinnamon, sometimes raisins, and if you're feeling energetic, you go and get a coconut to shave into it. You probably haven't had a coconut, I don't know that they grow this far north. It's...not a nut, and it's not a fruit. But it's a round thing with a thick shell you need a rock or a blade to break open, and then inside is a sweet, slightly milky water that you drink--very very good in the desert when you're dehydrated. And it has a sorta tough meat that's pure white and sweet. You can dry it and shave it into flakes or grind it into almost a flour, but usually the other kids and I would make contests of climbing the trees--they don't have branches like pines, you see, so it's very hard--and we'd break open the shell with a rock and just scrape off the meat with our teeth. We make a sort of milk out of it by pounding down the meat with some water and filtering it. It's very creamy and kind of sweet."
She thought a moment. "My favorite thing to eat though...well, okay, two things. One is the most decadent thing I've ever had, and one is what makes me feel at home. That one is definitely curry--the reddish orange kind--with rice, coconut milk, golden raisins, potato, some herbs, and goat meat. If it's really a special occasion, you add some crushed almonds. Ikali--my mother--used to make it as often as she could, which wasn't much. But that tastes like home. The other one though is chocolate. They grow the plant it comes from in Orosi and in southern Siren lands. It is sweet and bitter but in a nice way like coffee, and it melts in your mouth...and on your fingers, which is why it rarely makes its way to Azurei where it's so hot. Have you had it?"
"Apple pie...? I'm familiar with apples...but..not pie. You bake it so...it is a bread?" She indicated a loaf shape with her hands. "I'm picturing raisin bread that we have, like a loaf or sometimes a smaller bun with golden raisins and goat cheese mixed in it, but with apple? Probably not it but I can't think of anything else it'd be similar to." She had to agree though that the sun did have a smell, in a way. Maybe not directly, but it changed the way other things smelled in a distinct way. At home it smelled of dust, and of salt, of earth, but the dry sort, not the wet, black variety found elsewhere.
Ridahne's eyes lit up a bit. "So you've seen snow? Touched it? I've heard about it, and that it's cold, but I've never seen it before. I've seen paintings, so I sort of know what it looks like, and I've heard that it's often on high mountain peaks, but our mountains are too old and too small to have snow. Merchant ship crewmen at the docks would talk about it sometimes when they went up north. They say that the sea splashes up on the deck and wets the ropes and the sails, and the water changes. It gets hard, like it's not water anymore, like it's glass. You call it ice, yes? But they say snow is not like ice, it is soft and almost like sand but lighter. They say you can jump into a pile of it and it goes POOF!" She illustrated this with her hands and a smile. "I want to know more about snow. What's it like? I heard that children use it to construct effigies of odd, limbless, fat men--is that true? What is this for? Is it a religious ritual? Or a ward against evil spirits?" She asked this with all the dead-serious earnestness of a scholar. Sailors were known to spin tall tales, but she'd heard that one enough times to believe it.
Ridahne had to laugh at 'is that a safe question'. They did have a rocky start, didn't they? But they were getting better. Better at communicating and better at understanding one another. And Ridahne did not feel so ashamed of herself as she once did, and it made it easier to open up. "I also love porridge. We eat it with cinnamon, sometimes raisins, and if you're feeling energetic, you go and get a coconut to shave into it. You probably haven't had a coconut, I don't know that they grow this far north. It's...not a nut, and it's not a fruit. But it's a round thing with a thick shell you need a rock or a blade to break open, and then inside is a sweet, slightly milky water that you drink--very very good in the desert when you're dehydrated. And it has a sorta tough meat that's pure white and sweet. You can dry it and shave it into flakes or grind it into almost a flour, but usually the other kids and I would make contests of climbing the trees--they don't have branches like pines, you see, so it's very hard--and we'd break open the shell with a rock and just scrape off the meat with our teeth. We make a sort of milk out of it by pounding down the meat with some water and filtering it. It's very creamy and kind of sweet."
She thought a moment. "My favorite thing to eat though...well, okay, two things. One is the most decadent thing I've ever had, and one is what makes me feel at home. That one is definitely curry--the reddish orange kind--with rice, coconut milk, golden raisins, potato, some herbs, and goat meat. If it's really a special occasion, you add some crushed almonds. Ikali--my mother--used to make it as often as she could, which wasn't much. But that tastes like home. The other one though is chocolate. They grow the plant it comes from in Orosi and in southern Siren lands. It is sweet and bitter but in a nice way like coffee, and it melts in your mouth...and on your fingers, which is why it rarely makes its way to Azurei where it's so hot. Have you had it?"
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