Hello from Home

    Between their meeting with the Uganasr, the needed repairs that had caused their extended stay with Nahla's own tribe the Mountain Hawks it had been over two months since they had left the lands of the Haflalan. They had started out from Michocan just as the winter weather was starting. Now they were well into winter and the worst of the season was starting. Bisha was excited to be going home, a feeling that actually surprised him. Unlike most of the other countries around Ardu the Ashfani didn't have large celebrations at midwinter. The celebrations that were held here in Ashfanabad were more private not huge city wide things. Bisha loved watching the ground flow beneath the Atlom's Axe as they journeyed across Ardu.

      Bisha had been very surprised to see how his people reclaimed land from the desert. He'd known all of his life that the Ashfani and Oristani were working together to reclaim desert. What he hadn't known was how it was accomplished. From above Bisha could finally see how it was done. He saw the circles of greenery as well as the newly carved stone circles that stretched off into the distance that by next year would also be green. Bisha was amazed at all of the wonders that the various peoples of Ardu were capable of. Every time they had visited a new land Bisha had seen different ways of life and learned new skills. If there was one thing that Bisha loved, it was learning new things.

     The biggest surprise though was at how many of those new skills could be adapted into the new way of majic that he had discovered. Bisha had figured out that majic, as he had learned it, didn't really exist any more and he was now at the forefront of figuring out what it now was. The other thing that Bisha was most interested in was learning about the Children of Mrtis and what his ancestors had done during the Great War to stop her. Bisha was glad that he learned about both majic and the Children at the same place, any and every library he came across. Bisha was glad that the party was underway again the longer they'd stayed in place the more anxious he had become. He was afraid that they were falling behind those that they were working against.

     The next day the party crossed into Khunduz proper, the city looked so different from above. The night before they had sent a message via a guard to let everyone know that they would be flying in the next day. A message had returned to them this morning telling them to land at the Pasha's Casr or palace as people from other cultures would call it. At first Bisha didn't know what they had done to deserve such an honor but they realized that there were very few places that the Atlom's Axe could land without putting people on the ground at possible risk or worse cause a riot because no one had ever seen a flying boat before. So upon reflection landing in the Pasha's Casr made perfect sense. At least the guards were expecting them so they wouldn't get shot on their way down.

      Bisha watched as they flew over his home town and was more than a little surprised because there was a huge celebration going on. There were cheering crowds everywhere he looked, there were even banners as well as people waving what Bisha thought were small colored flags that he could see waving but not see whose flag it was. The biggest surprise was the sound of the cheers that grew louder as they approached the Pasha's Casr where they were to park. Bisha was trying to make out what everyone was yelling but no matter how hard he tried he just couldn't make sense of it. The only part that he could work out was his own name. Maybe they were proud of him? Not that he could figure out why they would be. If they had been cheering everyone's name he could of understood it but the only name the crowds seemed to be yelling was his.

     Bisha's biggest surprise came about when the Atlom's Axe landed in the open lawn of the garden for the Pasha's Casr. Bisha watched from the railing as Ten Rabbit placed the ramp so they could all disembark the ship. As the ramp was being lowered there was a horn flourish that Bisha didn't really recognize at first. It had been well over a year since he'd heard it after all. As the flourish ended Bisha watched in shock as the Pasha appeared at the foot of the ramp just as Ten Rabbit finished securing it to the ship. Bisha could still dimly hear the cheering continuing outside the walls of the Pasha's Casr but his attention was focused on the ruler of Ashfanabad standing calmly at the foot of the ramp. No one on the Atlom's Axe had been expecting to see the Pasha so close, they all had a hurried discussion about who should go first to greet him. After a quick whispered back and forth the party pointed out to Bisha that this was his land and he should be the first down to to greet him. 

      In less than an hour everyone was seated in the Pasha's private study enjoying a cup of kav, a drink he hadn't been able to truly enjoy since he'd left. For some reason that Bisha couldn't understand no one outside of Ashfanabad could make the stuff right. Bisha knew that he was purposely thinking about kav instead of the fact that he was sitting in the Pasha's study and honestly it made perfect sense because if he thought at all about where he was he'd start to panic. Panicking in front of the Pasha would only be slightly more embarrassing than when he'd panicked in front of everyone back when he'd first got to the Adikha Yunavarasiti and found out he was going to be teaching classes. Not his finest hour at least not to his mind.  

      That was when the Pasha completely derailed Bisha's thought process by congratulating him on his Marriage. Bisha's thoughts just stuttered to a halt the only thing that ran through his mind was wondering when had he gotten married. The look of shock on Bisha's face clearly cued everyone into his thoughts. Not that it was going to be difficult figuring out what he was thinking and from the amused look on Nahla's face it was clear that she at least had known about it. Bisha didn't wait for anyone else to pipe up about it before he stammered out a question about when he'd gotten married. Bisha was more than a little put out when Nahla almost choked on her kav because she snorted trying to hold back her laughter. The look of disgust that Bisha shot Nahla had the Pasha laughing out loud before he wiped his eyes and apologized.

      "I'm married?" Bisha stammered with a shocked look on his face, eyes so wide they appeared to take up his whole face.

     "Do you remember the ceremony with the Great Chieftain just before we all left Khaliun?" Nahla asked gently.

      Bisha nodded his head still shocked by the revelation that he was married and who to. How was he supposed to process this information. He didn't even know the Great Chieftain's given name and they were married?

     "But when did we get married?" Bisha asked finally turning to look at Nahla. Bisha remembered how beautiful the Great Chieftain was, how her sweet voice whispered along his nerves. How seeing her every day had made his soul sing. Bisha wasn't upset at being married to the most beautiful person he'd ever seen. The opposite in fact, he couldn't believe his wonderful luck in finding out that he was married to the one person that had filled his dreams since he'd met her. 

     "That ceremony was more than just a farewell. It was a proposal, the Great Chieftain wanted to know if you felt the same way she did." Nahla said with a small smile. "When you performed the ceremony flawlessly, by accident, it took the whole of the Great Chieftains court by surprise. That's why she gave you the talisman."

     Bisha's hand gripped the amulet without him being aware of it while Nahla spoke. When she told him what it meant he looked down at his hand holding the talisman but didn't let go. Bisha had worn it almost constantly because it reminded him of the beauty that had given it to him. I had made him feel closer to the statuesque woman of his dreams and now that he knew what it meant he felt even closer to her. 

     "Is this why every Oristani I've met since we left Khaliun has been so nice to me?" Bisha asked in a quiet voice. "I thought ..." Bisha broke off suddenly with an unhappy look on his face. Evidently Nahla tracked where his thoughts had led and rushed to reassure him.

     "Bisha, my people are so nice to you because you are so polite and respectful to them. If you weren't, they would tell you."

     Bisha was uncertain at first but Nahla continued to reassure him until he believed her that while yes they would be polite at first because he was married to the Great Chieftain. The Oristani didn't suffer fools at all and that they would tell someone exactly how they felt about someone straight to their face, no matter how important they were. 

     Nahla continued, "Do you remember when I talked to the Great Chieftain when we were leaving? I warned her not to lead you on or break your heart, because I consider you as a brother. To prove her intentions she made me your advisor and protector." She watched his expression closely to see how he would react. "It is a role I was taking already because I care about you."

     The Pasha stood up and Bisha reflexively began to stand, but the Pasha signaled that he should stay seated while speaking. "I'll give you some time alone. I gather you have much to process." The Pasha made to leave the room but stopped at the door and turned around. "There is going to be an official greeting at dinner tonight, all of the noble houses are going to be present. If you need anything just let the guard know. You and your friends will be staying in the guest wing, I've taken the liberty of preparing some clothes for you that reflect your station. I hope you like them." He then turned and left the room, leaving a guard at the door.

     Bisha looked thoughtfully into the distance, "Nahla, thank you. Thank you for everything. I now know what I must do," Nahla tried to keep her face neutral, but it was difficult, this sounded very bad. 

       "I must be the best husband I can be." Bisha continued, not noticing Nahla's sudden concern before Nahla almost audibly sighed at his blurted out comment before he continued. "I need your help, I have a lot to learn about how to be a good Oristani husband."  

     Nahla chuckled, "Don't worry, just be your polite and kind self and you'll be fine."

      Bisha's expression changed, he looked like he had an unexpected surprise. "I have to tell Alima! She'll be so happy for me." 

     "Who is Alima? Nahla asked confused by his sudden change in conversation.

     "She was the headmistress at the orphanage I grew up in, she is the closest thing I have to a mother. I want you to come with me when I tell her tomorrow, she would love to meet you." Bisha gushed excitedly.

     Later that day Bisha sat in his room in the guest wing of the Casr feeling fairly overwhelmed. The clothes the Pasha had chosen for him were exquisite. He had never seen robes so finely appointed, even the fez looked like it cost enough to feed a small family for a month. This was happening, he was so worried that he would make a mistake or embarrass himself or worse, by the gods, Oristan. He was broken out of his worry by a light knock at the door, it was Nahla. She was wearing her traditional black robes, but the fabric and decorations were much higher quality. The coins of her veil looked like they were all made of gold. She lowered her veil and gave him a warm smile. "Are you ready?"

      Bisha and the rest of their party reached the formal dining hall together. Only the engineer and the banker weren't expected to join them for the formal dinner. Or at least that was what Fulha had told him earlier today. Evidently the engineer didn't want to leave the ship and the banker was meeting with his compatriots in the Hafla embassy. Just as the party was about to enter three sharp knocks on the floor next to Bisha made him jump and give out a nervous squeak of a sound in startlement. The almost silent chuckle from behind him was too quiet for him to know who had made it. Suddenly a voice next to him bellowed for everyone to hear.

     "NARN KHANIJ, THE CONSORT TO THE NARN DARGRA SHELDIG OKHIN, BISHA MASSEY!" the uniformed heralds voice boomed out from where he stood at the side of the door into the formal dining room.

     Bisha froze, literally everyone was staring at him. This was his worse nightmare come true, being the center of attention was something he'd always hated. When he'd been very young before he'd been taken to the orphanage it had been dangerous to be noticed. When he was at the orphanage some of the other kids would pick on him for loving reading more than playing games. So by the time he'd reached yunavarasiti it had become the norm for him to fade into to the background. Only his instructors ever noticed his skills at scholarship and majic. Bisha had always loved books more than just about anything and right now he really wished he was reading. Unfortunately he was here and frozen in place. Luckily though Bisha felt Nahla's reassuring hand on the small of his back, just a brief touch but it was enough to get him moving again.

      Bisha was nervous sitting at the long dining table that was prominently placed in the center of the formal dining room. He was worried about what silverware to use with each dish, the only formal meals he'd been to had all been in other countries where at least not knowing what to do made sense. But here at home he was expected to know what to do, but no one had ever taught him. More concerning to Bisha than what silverware to use was where he was seated. Apparently the party were honored guests and he was the most important of them so he was seated at the Pasha's right hand. Sure he was honored by it, but couldn't figure out why one of his actually high ranked friends like Ten Rabbit or Irene weren't seated here. Bisha would have much rather of been seated next to Nahla further down the table but here he was sitting next to the Pasha at the head of the table with counselors on the other side and across from him. 

      At first the sounds of conversation flowed over and around him. He had never really understood small talk and this situation was so much worse. Everyone was talking about things that Bisha didn't understand at all. Currently the topic of choice was all about the winter storms and how bad they were this year. One of the counselors had just started to expound on how the weather was going to affect the harvest next year when there was a loud commotion at the main doors into the room. Everything stopped as every eye turned to look towards what was happening. At first Bisha was confused about what was going on but it quickly became clear that there was a group of people being stopped by the guards at the door. The herald hurried over to were the Pasha was sitting and whispered in his ear. Bisha watched as the Pasha glanced towards the commotion before whispering a reply to the herald who then hurried back to the guards and another whispered conversation with the head guard.

      As soon as the herald finished whispering to the head guard, the guard barked an order to his fellows that Bisha didn't properly hear or understand. Immediately the guards went from blocking the way to escorting the disheveled group to the Pasha. Bisha noticed that even though the guards allowed the group near the Pasha they nonetheless kept their weapons ready. When they had finally reached the Pasha's side Bisha finally noticed that the group surrounded an Ashfani that was closely bound and gagged. The prisoner looked more than a little worse for wear but not so badly beaten that he would be in danger of dying. Even Bisha knew that letting this group into the Pasha's Casr much less near the Pasha himself was almost unheard of. 

     "May I know why this was so important you felt the need to interrupt a state dinner?" the Pasha asked, voice commanding and stern, no hint of whether the Pasha approves of the disruption or not.

     "We bring you a child. A child of Mrtis." the leader of the Kara Ay demurred. This caused a stir of murmuring from the assembled crowd. The Pasha still did not reveal any reaction, only lifting a single eyebrow in response to the reply.

      The Pasha looked at the bound prisoner that was surrounded by the Kara Ay carefully before speaking, "I thank the Kara Ay for this gift. While we don't agree on most things, I am very glad that you brought me this present." 

     The leader of this group placed a hand over his heart and bowed, "A rose is always grateful for the rain."

     Bisha knew the Kara Ay, also known as the Black Moon crime family, lived and operated in the lowest and roughest neighborhoods in Khunduz including his home neighborhood of Yehkante. His knowledge came from being raised in those very same streets even after he'd been placed in the orphanage.  Apparently the Gulabani, the Ghouls, who lived in the sewers under the city had found this individual and his companions in a bolthole in their territory. Bisha knew about the Gulabani because he'd been found as a starving child by a city worker in those very sewers. The Gulabani didn't share their territory with anyone that didn't pay them for it. Anyone staying there without their approval had to be either very stupid or very clueless and right now Bisha wasn't betting on which one it was.

     As soon as Bisha heard what the Kara Ay spokesman had said he stood up from his chair to address the Pasha. While there was no problem of holding normal dinner conversation with the Pasha without standing, this was no normal dinner talk. Bisha had a favor to ask the Pasha and manners dictated that he stand while asking it. Nahla made an abortive attempt to stop him but before she could do so Bisha spoke his request.

     "Oh great Pasha, eagle of the desert, may I be granted a moment with our visitors and their guest?" Bisha asked using the most formal speech he knew, head bowed and right hand open over his heart. 

     "As our guest of honor this is your right." The Pasha replied with a smile and a small nod of agreement before continuing. "Guards, please take our guest of honor and our visitors to my study so they may converse without interruption." The guards silently and quickly shuffled them out a side door leaving Nahla behind.

     As they entered the Pasha's study Bisha started to wish that Nahla had come with him instead of staying behind in the dining room. He always felt better with her gentle presence at his side and learning that she had been appointed to watch and guide him by the Great Chieftain, his wife, just increased that feeling. Bisha paused for a second and a smile creeped across his face for a moment, something that happened every time he thought of the statuesque female he had just learned he was married to. But the smile was quickly replaced as he looked at the leader of the Kara Ay present and wiped an imaginary bit of grime from under his eye with his index finger. The posture of the Kara Ay there immediately changed. They became much more relaxed around Bisha, paying no attention to the palace guards stationed at the door watching them carefully.  

     "You, are a child of the streets?" the leader asked somewhat pointedly, clearly not believing the signal that Bisha had used.

     "I was raised in Yehkante. I was found in Gulabani territory before being sent to the orphanage. I am Bisha Massey, raised by Alima Palivan." The leader's eyebrows raised in surprise as Bisha spoke.

     "I have heard of you. You have done very well for yourself since leaving the orphanage." The leader replied with just a hint of snark coloring his voice.

     "Even the most beautiful rose can spring up in the poorest soil." Bisha replied calmly. The leader bowed his head slightly out of respect while Bisha continued. "I must find out what these cultists plans are, that is why my friends and I are here."

     In reply the leader turned back to the bound cultist as one of his companions placed the point of his dagger under the cultists ribs out of view of the guards, just in case. The leader leaned closer to the cultist's face without actually touching him while he whispered, "A little bird that sings will surely see the next day."

     The cultist stared back at the Kara Ay leader sweating before replying in a shaky voice, "We seek to awake Mrtis, so she will usher a new age for her children on Ardu." It sounded rehearsed, like mantra that he had practiced many times.

     "It is as I feared." Bisha said, face distressed by what he had just learned. "I have been doing research in every city we have traveled through and the only thing I have found relating to Mrtis is death." Bisha voice concerned because he'd just heard conformation of exactly what he had long suspected.

     The Kara Ay leader suddenly became very serious. "It seems that fortune makes for very strange friendships. We release this "person" to the guard. Please send my regards to the Pasha, may his glorious reign last a thousand years."

     With that the Kara Ay signaled for the guards to approach before his companion handed the ropes holding the prisoner to the guards and left unceremoniously. Bisha had no doubts that if he needed to he could now ask the Kara Ay with any help he desired. That was a wonderful yet completely unexpected understanding because he had never realized that his background would have such a benefit. Bisha suddenly realized that getting information from the lower levels of society was gong to be very important to defeating the Children of Mrtis.

     "I must return to the festivities," Bisha said with authority for the first time. "Please place this person in a cell and be careful, they like to kill themselves." The guard nodded and dragged the prisoner out of the room. Bisha thought more about what he'd learned from the Mrtis worshiper while he returned back to the party and took his seat.

     "Thank you great Pasha, I apologize for this unusual interruption." Bisha said to the Pasha, bowing into the silence that had fallen at his entrance back into the formal dining room.

     "You have nothing to apologize for. You are the honored guest and the consort of Ashfanabad's greatest ally." the Pasha replied with a smile while gesturing for Bisha to retake his seat next to him.

     "You give me too much praise, I am but a humble student of the majical arts." Bisha returned as he sat. 

      Nahla stared at Bisha, her questioning expression plainly saying 'Where did this come from?'  Bisha gently placed a hand on hers and whispered later so only softly only Nahla could hear.  Nahla seemed to reluctantly accept this and went back to her meal. The rest of the evening went smoothly and as the crowd left for the evening with much bowing and handshaking the Pasha made sure he was next to Bisha as the last person left the room. 

     "So what has our guest revealed?" the Pasha asked almost conversationally still looking at the door that the last guest had departed through.

     "I think this is much worse than anyone had thought. I'll know more after I look through our libraries and we go to Chiengzhou. But make no mistake My Lord, the Children of Mrtis are a very real and present danger. You will need to conduct an investigation of your court and the temples in the city. I'm certain there are more here, hidden among officials and priests, just as there had been in almost every city we've been in. I fear they intend to undo what the Treaty of Kishnagar accomplished." 

      "You have given me much to think about. I think I will take a stroll and think about our discussion," The Pasha's expression darkened briefly before clearing as he turned and gave a slight bow to Bisha and Nahla. "Please enjoy the evening, I would recommend a visit to the gardens before going to bed to clear your mind." Bisha bowed deeply to the Pasha as he swept out leaving the two friends behind in the dining room.

      "Thank you Pasha, oh lion of the desert, you honor me." Bisha said while bowing to the Pasha's departing back. Nahla just looked at Bisha with a slightly confused face, there was obviously more going on than she knew. This was a side of Bisha she never seen before or known existed. For his part Bisha could feel the questions radiating out of her. 

     "Why would the Pasha want us to visit the gardens? It's winter they will be freezing cold?" Nahla asked.

      So Bisha explained to Nahla that a long ago Pasha had wanted flowers all year long so had built a greenhouse larger than any other in the world. So large in fact that it held the whole of the Pasha's private gardens. The gardens that only the Pasha, his family and selected guests can see. Not the gardens that the whole of the court uses and that we parked in. Later in the Pasha's private gardens, when Nahla and Bisha were sure they were alone Bisha stopped at a trysting seat in a secluded bower gesturing for Nahla to join him. For a long moment Bisha just sat on the bench he shared with Nahla, breathing in the scent of flowers that bloomed almost all year round thanks to the marvels of a long ago artificer. 

     "Do you remember when I told you that I was found on the streets?" When Nahla nodded, Bisha continued. " I had actually been found starving in the sewers by a city worker. The sewers and streets of Khunduz are very unforgiving to lost younglings, I had to do what I could to survive. Because I was so small and easy to dismiss, I worked for the street gangs led by the Kara Ay. I was an observant set of eyes, a quick distraction so someone else could pick pockets, I even became quite proficient at picking locks. In short, I made myself valuable. An orphan with no value doesn't last long on the streets."

     Bisha took in a slow breath and just as slowly exhaled before he continued. "I did what I could to make it to the next day. As I reached what we think was my tenth birthday the Pasha's programs to educate the poor were started. I was one of the first to take advantage of the program and as it turned out I blossomed with an education. I dedicated every waking moment to getting myself as far away from the streets and crime as I could. I have been running away from my past for a very long time."

     Bisha paused looking Nahla square in the eyes, something he rarely did with anyone. "You and the rest of our group are among the first people that I would honestly call my friends. I only had a couple of friends in the orphanage and even fewer in yunavarasiti. Only one in fact, the one who gave me my Khomal." Bisha smiled as he petted the ever present companion that not even a high feast would separate from him. "I don't wish to make you uncomfortable, but I think of you as a sister. You have always looked out for me and I'm not good at expressing myself. Thank you. I am privileged to be in your company." Bisha finished blushing while tears were starting to form in his eyes. Nahla didn't say anything, she just gave him a hug and held him for a moment before letting him go.

     Nahla finally spoke while standing up and holding a hand out to Bisha, a gentle smile on her lips, "We should check in with the rest of the group before getting some sleep, something tells me tomorrow is going to be a busy day."

Bisha's Grief

     The next morning dawned crisp and bright with no sign of clouds in the sky. Nahla looked at the opulent room she was told to sleep in. She would of been much more comfortable sleeping in the stable with Usha but at least she could have Ryah with her. Even after over a year of being around city dwellers Nahla still wasn't very comfortable sleeping within four walls instead of a tent like a proper Oristani. Only Usha and Ryah knew how she felt about cities and everything that went with them. At least she'd gotten better at hiding her discomfort at being inside cities. But Nahla didn't think she was ever going to actually comfortable in cities sleeping or awake. Honestly the only place she'd felt comfortable was when they had stayed with Ten Rabbits family. All of the adults had slept in the same room, something that had strongly reminded her of sleeping in her family's tent. 

      Every morning Nahla did the exercises that her mentor Temjin had taught her. Exercises that were both physical as well as mental because the two were explicitly tied together. Temjin had always told her that those having a strong body without a strong mind would never survive their final test at Chuluun Toiroq, the home of the spirits. Temjin was equally adamant that the reverse was true but Nahla doubted that anyone had ever tested it since Oristani were a very physical people because of the lives they lived. Fortunately Bisha's instructors felt the same way that Temjin did and required him to exercise regularly and the past year of travel had gotten him into decent physical shape. Something that Nahla was certain was going to be important in the future, although she wasn't sure why. 

      That thought brought Nahla to the present and the sudden change that had taken place at the state dinner last night. She had never seen him act so assertively as he had last night when those strange people had appeared. It was like seeing a completely different person that looked exactly like her charge that she thought of as a little brother, never mind that he was older than she was. Nahla had actually been surprised and more than a little impressed by the sudden change in Bisha. Now if she could just get him to be just as careful when he was planning his majical experiments. Most of her concern for his safety came directly from how he ran his various experiments on majic. Nahla wasn't certain that it would but it was a pleasant thought.

      Just as Nahla had finished her morning routine there was a knock on the door. Opening it Nahla saw Bisha on the other side of it as if her thoughts had summoned him. As always Nahla showed nothing on her face beyond the usual small smile of happiness at seeing him. As usual Bisha's excitement and happiness were infectious and Nahla was looking forward to whatever it was that prompted his appearance at her door before breakfast. Behind Bisha could speak Nahla saw a servant walking up behind him with a questioning look on his face. As soon as the servant approached close enough to speak he asked if the too of them were planing to eat breakfast at the main dining room or in their rooms. It was easy to read the look on Bisha's face so Nahla told the servant that they would eat in her rooms. The servant nodded and left while Nahla gestured for Bisha to join her in the public room of the quarters she'd been assigned. In just a couple of minutes there was a quiet knock at the door quickly followed by the first servant who was shepherding three more who were clearly ladened with food for both of them. For a couple of minutes neither of them said anything but it was clear he wanted to ask her something. 

       Once they had finished eating Nahla asked Bisha if she could bring Usha and Ryah whenever they left the Casr. Ever since their little adventure in Alkhadharam back when their adventure had just begun Nahla was reluctant to leave her friends behind, especially Usha. That hadn't been the first time she had gone looking for her when they were separated but that had been the first time they had been in a city when it happened. Because of that misadventure Nahla had gone out of her way to make sure that Usha wasn't left alone if it could be helped. Unfortunately Nahla had needed to leave her alone in Heldal, Helgale and Tlatlolitzli, but at least there had been people to stay with Usha each time. Nahla wanted to know if there was an Usha-sitter here as well or if they should bring her along. 

      Bisha was about to answer when there was another knock on the door. Nahla stood up thinking that it was just the servant coming to pick-up the dishes but much to her surprise instead of the servant from earlier there was a new servant in a completely different uniform color. The first one had been dressed in jewel tones with gold trim whereas this one was in rust-brown tones with an almost coppery trim. Before she could even open her mouth to speak the Ashfani male started to babble in his own tongue. All Nahla could do was stand there and blink with absolutely no understanding of what he was saying. Fortunately Bisha was there and stepped in to take over the conversation but he was looking confused as well before finally repeating 'slow down'. One of the few sentences that Nahla actually understood over and over until the young male finally actually slowed down. 

        With Bisha's translating Nahla listened as the young servant explained that there had been a mistake in her quarters. She was supposed to be placed in the special Oristani quarters, ones that were specifically built to room the Oristani visitors with their temee. The Pasha had commanded that the rooms be built as soon as the Great Chieftain had informed the Pasha about the marriage. The look on Bisha's face almost made Nahla burst out laughing because he looked so surprised at that statement.  Nahla however was able to control her laughter and thank the servant in Ashfani, that being one of the five sentences she had learned by rote. Nahla quickly decided that she needed to study Ashfani from now on.

       Nahla looked around her new quarters with Bisha at her side. These were amazing she decided as she watched Usha get comfortable on a bed big enough to fit Usha, Ryah and herself. Thankfully the room wasn't near as opulent as the one she'd had previously. Like almost every Oristani Nahla was very uncomfortable when she was housed in opulence. Nahla was definitely already uncomfortable just having to stay inside of walls but when you added opulence of the rooms it was almost to much. These rooms were the first time she'd been comfortable staying inside. Nahla was glad that her report to the Great Chieftain was going to be glowing about the Pasha and what he'd done for them. Nahla chuckled to herself when she realized that when they finally got home Bisha was going to get his own temee and she could hardly wait. 

       "Here in Khunduz Oristani usually bring their temee with them when they shop," Bisha said with a big grin, answering the question that Nahla had asked just before. "In case you didn't know approximately a third of Ashfanabad is in Chulun Shivnee territory, if I remember correctly they are your neighbors to the north."

      This time Nahla wasn't able to hide her surprised expression. Ever since they had arrived in Ashfanabad Bisha had been full of surprises. First with his lack of fear of talking privately with members of what she suspected was a crime family. Next with his sudden assertiveness both before and after said conversation. And now with his knowledge of which Oristani tribes lived in what territory. How much more was hiding in this unassuming little wizard that was now her brother both by choice and the Great Chieftain's decree? 

     It took Nahla a moment to respond to that statement. She'd always heard that the Ashfani treated the clans more like fellow clansmen instead of like enemies, but this was completely unexpected. Not only did the Ashfani work with Oristan to reclaim desert. Not to mention these beautiful quarters that were set-up to allow Oristan temees to stay with their person. But the fact that it was normal for temees to accompany their person into the heart of the capitol was almost to much. 

      "So, what prompted you to seek me out?" Was all that Nahla could think of to say.

     "I was hoping you would be willing to go with me to visit Alime, she was the matron of the orphanage I grew up in.  She treated all of us kids like we were her own blood. It was Alime that taught me what family actually means," Bisha paused for a moment and Nahla wondered what he was remembering be fore he continued with a . It would mean a lot to me and could I use the moral support, I'm very nervous about it. I know I shouldn't be, but she had a lot of influence on how I've turned out," Bisha babbled then took a breath to say more, but Nahla silenced him with a raised hand. 

      "I would be glad to, I would like to meet this Alime." Nahla replied.

     Bisha gave a sigh of relief, "Thank you, I appreciate it." Bisha's face took on a look of concern before continuing, "It means going into Yehkante and and I have a lot of unpleasant memories from there. I haven't been back since I left for yunavarasiti." Bisha's expression changed and Nahla couldn't decide if it was relief, nervousness, or anxiety before he continued, "When we get there, please don't judge. The people of Yehkante are very poor and there is never enough to go around." Bisha face sported a boyish grin when he added, "And no offense but I would feel safer with a big Oristani at my side." 

     Nahla gave a little internal laugh, she had never thought of herself as "big". Tall maybe, but never big. Looking down at her friend Nahla realized that no matter how secure and commanding he looked or sounded Bisha was always going to be her little brother. Never mind that he was actually almost five years older than she was. With that thought the two of them saddled Usha and left the Casr with Bisha with Ryah at their heels. Nahla decided that for once she was almost looking forward to seeing this city that allowed Oristani to be themselves.

      An hour later as they left the alleyway that led from the market district into the Yehkante district, Nahla had to stifle a gasp. It was much worse than she had imagined. The buildings here were so dirty and smelly that the road almost looked clean in comparison. Or it would of if there hadn't been so much garbage which, Nahla realized, was probably where the distinctively bad smell was coming from. Nahla was glad it was winter she didn't want to even think about how bad the aroma would be if hot weather was added to it. The few people she saw here were malnourished and hugged the buildings to avoid them while never looking up from the ground. That part was probably because of the Pasha's guards that were accompanying them. The Pasha had insisted that they take an armed escort if they were going into what the Pasha had called "the Shambles". She now understood why the Pasha called it that, it looked like the only thing holding the buildings together was prayer.

     For convenience sake Nahla had Bisha ride Usha in front of her, it would be easier for her to defend him if they were attacked. Not to mention that it was easier on them both if he didn't have to worry about where he was holding her. Nahla knew without a doubt that if Bisha accidentally grabbed her somewhere personal he would fall off rather than do so a second time. Even if she didn't have to worry about defending him, a fall from a fully grown temee could, and often was, fatal. Nahla could feel the tension in him, Bisha was almost shaking but she wasn't sure if it was fear or nerves causing the shakes. She couldn't imagine growing up in a place like this, how Bisha had managed to stay so kind and generous was beyond Nahla's comprehension. The street turned left and led to an intersection and the character of the guards changed suddenly. They were no longer sure of themselves, she could see that they were very nervous. Nahla looked down and addressed the head guard. This was going to take some finesse. 

        "You can go back to the Casr, I can handle this and its not like we're alone." Nahla said with a gesture to Ryah who was at her side. And at his dubious expression she continued, "If anyone asks tell them I sent you back. As a full Sunyari, shaman, if I can't handle this I don't deserve my temee or to call myself Oristani." The guard visibly relaxed, placed a hand on his chest and bowed. He turned to his compatriots and made a hand signal and without a word they left.

     As soon as the guards were out of hearing range Bisha made an unusual whistling bird call. Suddenly the street was full of people, a group of children ran up to them and babbled something in Ashfani far to quickly for Nahla to understand. Bisha replied to them in the same language which made them look crestfallen before they just sort of wandered off, disappearing into the crowd.

     Bisha chuckled, shaking his head, "They thought you were a desert warrior. I told them you were a shaman and I don't think they were impressed. Probably because they had no idea what a shaman was of course. Anyway the orphanage is just two blocks up and to the right, you'll know it as soon as you see it."

     They continued on in silence, Nahla watched as the locals stared at them. Judging by their clothes they were considering whether it was worth the effort to try to rob them. Since the rest of the ride was uneventful they must not be worth the effort, besides she was certain that Usha would make any attack less than successful. Anyone with even a passing knowledge of temee would know that Usha would fight as hard if not harder than her rider. Plus here in Ashfanabad Ryah was easily recognizable as an Ashfan hound and no one would argue with one if they could avoid it. A temee, an Ashfan hound and the two of them meant they were far to formidable for any of these underfed people to attack.

     When they got to the turn Nahla was in for a shock, the orphanage was crowded with children and not one of them looked healthy by Oristani standards. They were all bone thin and seemed to be in various states of undernourishment. If they hadn't been running around playing she would have thought that most of them were dying. When she looked closer Nahla could see that the children were actually clean and fed but because of their earlier starvation they would never be anything other than thin. She remembered Bisha's words and tried not to judge, but it was difficult. When they got to the orphanage Bisha and Nahla dismounted. There wasn't anywhere to tie off Usha so in Oristani she told Usha and Ryah 'Go ahead and play with the children, but be careful there are probably thieves nearby'. Usha grunted in agreement while Ryah settled down next to Usha.

     Bisha took a deep breath and smoothed his robes, adjusted his fez, and then felt for Khomal in his pocket. He turned to look at Nahla, his expression pensive. A look that Nahla had seen many times before but never with the nervousness that was also clear to her. In response Nahla merely gestured toward the door, hoping that if she acted nonchalantly he wouldn't been so stressed. This tactic had worked in the past and Nahla hoped it would again. Bisha was always so ready to think that he was a problem, somehow in the wrong. Nahla had been working on that mindset for a long while now, ever since she had noticed it in fact. Bisha was the only person that she'd seen believe themselves to be lesser. Just because the Oristan clans were generally supportive of other clansman there were always those that were embarrassing to claim as fellow Oristani. No group was perfect after all.

      As they walked to the door the children running around and playing stopped to stare at them. This made Nahla a little nervous, she didn't want to frighten them after all. This had to be a strange sight for them, how were they going to react? Were they going to be afraid? violent? There was no way to know but by now experience had taught Nahla that people didn't always react to new things logically. Not that anything actually bad had happened but Nahla hated it when people feared her. She was a shaman and lived to help the people around her whether they were clansmen or not. The fact that she was almost seven foot and towered over almost everyone never even crossed her mind.

     Bisha however just walked in and addressed the first adult he saw in Ashfani. While Nahla recognized Alime's name she didn't understand anything else. The adult who replied with a sorrowful look on their face gestured to the back of the building. Bisha suddenly looked alarmed, then pleadingly to Nahla before rushing to the back rooms with Nahla close on his heels. Bisha stopped and looked nervously at a door that matched the worn surroundings before knocking lightly. A quiet voice replied for them to enter. When Bisha cautiously entered Nahla looked over his shoulder at an old lady in a bed being tended by what Nahla assumed was a nurse. The pitying look that was given to Bisha told Nahla that there was very little time left for her patient. Nahla mentally prepared for what she knew was going to be a very tough day for Bisha.

     The old lady, that Nahla knew from Bisha's face was Alime was clearly in very poor health. Alime's skin was stretched over bone and her breathing was slow and shallow. Her skin was unnaturally pale, enough so that even Nahla could tell. Ashfani skin coloring was very different from Oristani and Bisha's pale red was hard for her to gauge. The horns that all Ashfani had looked like they were flaking away. Nahla knew that the size of an Ashfani's horns didn't mean anything as far as skill, ability or wealth went. Although sometimes people tried to claim that it did, usually those were the ones that had little else to be proud of in their lives, Nahla knew that because she had seen it herself during their journeys together. 

     As Bisha entered the nurse turned to talk to him. The two of them exchanged rapid words in Ashfani that Nahla didn't understand before she left the room. While she was leaving she gave Nahla a confused look clearly wondering who she was. Alime's filmy eyes lit up when she saw Bisha, speaking to him in Ashfani. Whatever she had said caused Bisha to place his hand over his heart and bow deeply. Bisha then reached into his robes and pulled out a single rose he had taken from the Pasha's garden the night before while placing it carefully in her paper like hands. The old lady looked at Nahla with brilliant gold eyes dulled by illness and even in her decrepit state Nahla could see a very sharp mind behind the feebleness taking her measure. A look she had seen many times before from her own mentor Temjin.

     In a faint croak Alime asked in carefully slow and precise Kishnagari, "Bisha my little mouse, it is so good to see you, who have you brought me?"

     Bisha grabbed the chair from the desk next to the bed and sat next to Alime, worry plain on his face. "Alime, what happened? What's wrong?"

     The worry in Bisha's voice tore at Nahla's soul. Nahla could easily tell that Alime wasn't long for this world, she would be lucky to last the night. Nahla respectfully stayed next to the door not wanting to intrude.  She was trying to be as invisible as a seven foot tall Oristani dressed in all black could be in a small room. Nahla refused to leave though, she would be here to support Bisha when the inevitable happened. He wouldn't suffer alone. That wasn't the way of the Oristan or the shaman and Nahla was both. 

     "I'm old dear, and the wasting finally got to me. It was only a matter of time. Who is your tall friend?" Bisha glanced back at Nahla, it was obvious that he wasn't handling this well. Not that she expected him to. No one that had a generous heart would after all. 

     "Alime, this is Nahla. She is my companion and protector." Bisha almost cried, gesturing Nahla to come to his side. "She has been looking out for me."

     Alime lifted her head, turning to look at Nahla and in passable Oristani said "May the spirits guide you home." before turning back to look at Bisha, "You seem to have done well for yourself. You look so healthy and you have friends who care for you." Alime set her head back into her pillow. The effort was obviously exhausting her, her breathing even more shallow and her face turning a grayish color.

     Nahla placed a hand on Bisha's shoulder, "Tell her." she prompted quietly to him.

    Bisha looked into Alime's eyes, trying to hide his worry from her while taking her hand in his, "I'm married now. To the Oristani Great Chieftain, you would like her. She has your love of knowledge. And she has a voice like a songbird." 

   Alime gave Bisha a weak smile, "I'm so happy for you, you deserve a good life."

     That was when Alime slumped further into her pillow as a small sigh escaped lips. Nahla could tell that she had passed, the light was gone from her eyes. 

     "Alime?" Bisha asked in a small voice. "Alime?" he asked again louder. "Alime?" He pleaded, voice cracking as he realized that Alime was gone.

      Bisha slumped onto Alime's chest and he started to quietly cry, still holding her hand. Nahla gave his shoulder a slight squeeze. After a couple of minutes Bisha raised is head, cleared his throat, and wiped at his eyes. Finally Bisha stood up and adjusted his robe while he wiped his eyes. Nahla knew that this was going to be a very difficult time but she was ready to help him any way he needed. Helping people who were grieving others was as much a part of her training as helping with a birth. Nahla almost reached out for Bisha but stopped herself before she did. Right now wasn't the time for it but when it came she'd be ready, even if the support came through someone else.

     "We should go," Bisha said in a dead voice that he thought disguised his pain as he turned around towards the door. 

     Bisha opened the door and the nurse was waiting for them in the hall. The nurse took one look at Bisha and reached to place a consoling hand on his shoulder. Bisha didn't notice and just walked slowly outside not reacting to her or anything else around him. Nahla followed closely, eyes sharp for any hint that she needed to intervene. She had seen this before, a grieving person walking away from the loved one who had just died, not seeing the world around them. Nahla knew it wouldn't be long before he just couldn't handle it anymore and broke down in racking sobs and she needed to be there for him when it happened. Not because she was shaman and it was her job, but because it was Bisha, her little brother, and he needed her. 

     When they got outside Usha was standing in a group of kids running around her and yelling playfully while Ryah pretended to chase them. Both of her dear friends turned their heads to look at her as soon as she and Bisha appeared. As soon as she saw Bisha Usha neatly stepped over the playing children to rest her head on his shoulder all the while making a quiet Temee grunts. Meanwhile Ryah came and pressed her body against his which would of made him stumble sideways if it wasn't for Usha's loving head on  his shoulder. Bisha absentmindedly reached up to pet Usha's head while simultaneously reaching for Ryah as well.

     "Can we go somewhere?" Bisha asked quietly after the three of them had stood quietly together for a couple of minutes.

     "Where do you want to go?" Nahla asked, her voice full of gentle concern.

     "It's not far." Bisha replied his undisguised anguish obvious.

     Bisha just started walking toward the water just barely visible in the distance. Bisha not really paying attention to Ryah who was pacing at his side. Nor did he notice anything that was happening around him. Nahla followed behind him leading Usha keeping an eye of everything that he was ignoring. Nahla wasn't worried though with Ryah, Usha and herself she knew that there wasn't much that the three of them couldn't handle. So Nahla let Bisha lead the way and followed where ever he went while she watched everyone and everything around them. So Nahla just kept a mental map of where they were just in case Bisha was grief stricken enough to get lost.

     Bisha shuffled his way through a series of dirty alleyways finally ending up at a grimy little hollow next to a large pipe. The pipe dumped a trickle of stinking polluted water into the bay. The smell made Nahla wrinkle her nose at the stench. She had never understood how city dwellers could just blithely dump garbage or worse into the water. The Oristan would never do something like that even if they had actually lived in cities, at least she didn't think so. Bisha sat on a large rock and looked out at the inlet that lead to the sea. A slightly larger rock was next to the one that Bisha sat on which Nahla sat on. She sat just in time before Bisha threw himself into Nahla's arms and started sobbing. Nahla merely cradled him gently not speaking while she waited for the crying to slow enough for speech. 

     After a long time Bisha finally started to pull him self together, wiping at his eyes and taking shuddering breaths while he sat back up on his rock. Nahla watched as he wiped his eyes,waiting to see what he needed next to deal with his grief. That was when Khomal made an appearance, his tiny body snuck out from the pocket he usually stayed in and huddled up next to Bisha's chin. Khomal's tiny little face with his sparkling black eyes looked up at her from under Bisha's chin before he turned his brown head back into the spot where his jaw and throat met. Nahla was very glad for the constant companionship of that little glider that went everywhere with Bisha. He would bring comfort when Bisha was technically alone. As an animal speaker with two very good four legged friends Nahla knew that he was never actually alone. Which right now was definitely for the best.

    "I'm sorry," He was finally able to say, staring at the filthy ground at his feet. 

    "For what?" Nahla gently asked, placing a hand on his shoulder, keeping her previous thoughts hidden behind her shaman's training.

    "For not being stronger," He weakly replied, not raising his eyes from his feet.

     Nahla cradled his head between her hands, with one on each side of his face. She turned his face to look at her own. Bisha looked at her, his expression crushed and his eyes pleading. The depth of pain that was there was not lessened by him not being a blood relation to him. Alime had been his mother in every way and there was nothing that would ever change that. Nahla knew that for many people wouldn't see things that way but not anyone from her lands. But not an Oristani, to her people family was more than blood. Family was who was there for you, cared for you and taught you. Alime was a mother by all of those standards and she would be honored as such by all of her people. 

"Never apologize for grieving. You are allowed to cry. Give tears to those who deserve them and never let anyone tell you otherwise," Nahla scolded softly. Before she continued Nahla looked deep into his eyes. "You know you made Alime's last moments ones of joy don't you. She passed happy and trust me I know. She was proud of you and all you have accomplished." 

      "Thank you again, I needed to hear that." After Bisha had taken a deep shuddering breath and let it out slowly.

     Nahla let go of Bisha, sat back and in a practiced conversational tone prompted Bisha. "Tell me about her."

      Bisha took another deep breath before speaking. "You would have liked her, she was a good person and always had a kind word for someone. She had a way of making you want to do her proud, no matter how annoying you were. Everyone in the neighborhood loved her. She always had little trinkets for the smallest children." Bisha took another deep shuddering breath almost breaking down again before continuing, "She was the first to believe in me. It was her that gave me my love of learning."

     Bisha looked off into the distance out to the sea. The sun was low, beginning to turn the sky red. The clouds glowed like they were made of fire. Bisha turned back to Nahla, the setting sun making is usually almost sickly red skin color turn a deep cherry color. The cold winter wind ruffled Bisha's dark, curly hair making him look even younger than usual. But felt colder than the wind in the mountains of her home. Nahla suppressed a shiver not wanting Bisha to think it was because of what had happened with Alime or anything he had said. Nahla looked at Bisha with all of her love for her little brother in her eyes wanting to comfort him any way she could.

      "Thank you again Nahla, I'm glad you came, were here when..." Bisha's eye started to well with tear before he wiped them again and changed the subject. "This is where I would come be alone when the world got to be too much or I needed to think. I could look at the clouds and imagine another world, one where I had a family. One where I wasn't just Little Mouse, a broken orphan dumped into a world that didn't care." 

     For the first time Nahla actually looked at their surroundings and all she could see was filth, pollution and mud. The pipe drizzling runoff into the mud that trickled into the water didn't help the scenery. But the oily slick on the mud and water did make some pretty colors. Nahla realized that Bisha needed her more that she had thought. She also realized that she cared about him more than she had considered. She had been instructed to guard Bisha by the Narn Dargra, the great chieftain, to council him. She had considering him as her little brother but everything that had happened made her realize that what she had felt was actually true. It was time for her to tell him, really tell him everything that meant. 

     "Bisha, I have been assigned to protect you by the Great Chieftain. To protect her First Consort. this you know. From now on Bisha I will call you Duyu, little brother. I shall protect you as I would protect my own blood. Give me your hand. I have thought of you as my duyu and now you will be so." 

     Bisha turned his usual confused look on Nahla but slowly gave her his hand. With her other hand Nahla reached into her robes and pulled out a tiny sharp knife which she proceeded to poke first into his palm then hers. Nahla then grasped their bleeding palms together while she looked him in the eye.

    "Brother of my heart, I pledge my self to you. You will never fight alone." Nahla said in Oristani while looking him in his deep sad eyes. Nahla then let go of his hand and smeared her palm with both of their blood commingled across his forehead leaving a faint smear of blood. At Nahla's nod Bisha copied both her words and the blood smear onto her forehead leaving them both with matching marks. She gave a little chuckle,

     "It's official, your Oristani now." Nahla said with a small chuckle.

     Bisha gave a sad little laugh and replied, "Then you're Ashfani now too."

     "I will gladly be so," Nahla said sincerely before slapping her palms onto her thighs and standing up.

     Bisha was still sad and would continue to be for quite some time to come. This was as it should be. No one of good heart would stop being sad at the death of a loved one. But it would hurt less eventually and that was also how it should be. Life went on and pain taught lessons, sometimes the lesson was that death finds us all. And sometimes the lesson was about family and what it actually meant. Today Bisha had learned both of those. Not for the first time and not for the last.

     "Come on, we should head back. I'm sure everyone is wondering where we are by now." Bisha said as he stood up and gave her a strong hug. "I know there's a lot of meaning to what just happened that I don't understand, but thank you. I am honored by your presence." Bisha took a step back and looked at Nahla for a moment, like he was seeing her for the first time. Then he placed his hand on his heart and slowly bowed deeply to Nahla before he turned toward Usha and Ryah and wondered aloud as he prepared to mount.  

     On the quiet ride back to the Casr Nahla's mind drifted from Bisha to someone else she was concerned about, Devshi. Nahla had been concerned about her ever since she had learned she was a holy warrior for her god. Devshi had been pushing herself too hard and taking risks that were plainly foolish. When they were with her clan Nahla had seen Devshi fighting with some of the tribe's warriors. She had not fared well, but not matter what anyone had said Devshi hadn't stopped what she called practicing. And that had been in addition to the training Devshi was receiving from Irene, someone that actually had experience with training others. Devshi was going to hurt herself if she kept this up, something that Nahla wasn't going to let happen if she had to sit on the girl. Irene would probably help too.

      As soon as the two of them had returned to the Casr the head guard that Nahla had sent back met them at the gate. He had explained to to his commander about being sent back to the Casr and been told to wait for Bisha and herself here. Which as Nahla could see was exactly what he and his men had done. Nahla chuckled to herself as he told her about what his commander had said, something she appreciated considering what she had been doing this morning. Nahla looked at Bisha, getting a quick gauge of his mood, he'd been unusually silent on the ride back. Not that Nahla was surprised about that considering what had happened today. Nahla decided that as soon as she got to her quarters she was going to send a hasty note to Irene about what had happened at the orphanage this morning.

     Nahla followed the servant that had come to her quarters to lead her to lunch. Ryah was a silent presence at her side and for a change Usha wasn't upset at being left behind, but instead was eating her own lunch quite happily. She was surprised when instead of leading her to the same formal dining room they'd eaten at the night before she was led towards an area of the palace that looked far fancier and had significantly more guards than the reception hall and formal dining room from yesterday. The room that Nahla had been led to was very ornate but instead of it being ostentatious it actually looked homey. Like this was a room that someone lived in rather than being just for show like so many Nahla had seen in her travels. The Pasha wasn't there yet but Irene, Ten Rabbit, Devshi and Bisha were already sitting at the table, one that was much smaller and less ornate than the one from last night. Bisha looked sad but Irene had clearly passed the word on to the others as they were working hard to keep Bisha distracted.

      Almost as soon as Nahla had sat down the Pasha walked in. This was a Pasha that was dressed much more relaxed and less formal than he had when she'd seen him yesterday. Instead of ornate over robes with a huge fancy turban, he was dressed in what Nahla assumed was normal Ashfani attire. In fact he was dressed almost exactly like Bisha was only instead of a fez the Pasha was bare headed, showing for the first time the horns that had been hidden under his turban. Unlike Bisha though the Pasha's horns weren't hidden by the thick curly black hair that the two shared. Instead the Pasha's horns curled up majestically and were easily six times the size of Bisha's which were almost completely hidden by his own thickly curled black hair. The very first thing the Pasha said when he entered was to apologize for his tardiness, explaining that he'd been going through some reports and had lost track of time. Nahla was fairly certain that while he had been going through reports, probably from the guards, she seriously doubted that the Pasha had ever lost track of time, he'd merely timed his appearance for after all of the party had arrived. 

      As soon as the Pasha was seated at the head of the table, servants came out and started to place food on the table. Instead of already filled plates like she'd seen the night before this was more like an Oristani meal with the serving bowls being placed in the center of the table. As soon as the dishes were placed the servants left the room leaving the party alone with the Pasha. There weren't even guards in the room. Well at least no guards were visible, but Nahla was very certain that there were guards that she couldn't see, not that she was going to look for them. All of this flashed through Nahla's mind but what really surprised her was when the Pasha turned to her and asked her to serve the food. This was exactly how an Oristani meal went, the oldest female was the holder of the spoon unless a shaman was attending at which time the shaman dispensed the food. 

      "Bisha," the Pasha said turning to look at him, his face concerned while Nahla dispensed food. "I want you to know that the country mourns with you."

       Bisha looked startled, as did everyone else at the table. Nahla watched as Bisha was about to disagree but stopped at the Pasha's gesture. Nahla was fairly certain that the Pasha knew exactly what had happened at the orphanage. In fact she was fairly certain that the Pasha knew just about everything that happened here in Khunduz and a good ninety percent of what happened in the country as a whole. 

       "I am building a new orphanage next to the one you grew up in. It will be named after Alime Palivan and have a statue of that honorable woman placed in the front garden," the Pasha continued with compassion. "All of Ashfanabad will remember her kindness, how she loved all of her charges like her own children."

      "But how do you know so much about Alime?" Bisha asked confused, forgetting for a moment that he was speaking to the ruler of his country.

     "Ever since I created the orphanages twenty years ago I kept track of how well each was doing and the personalities of those in charge," the Pasha said clearly  "I noticed that a couple of them were starting basic education for the poor who lived around them as well as their own residents. When I learned about this I kept a closer eye on the children who went to these classes and noticed that they had a better chance of staying out of trouble. When I noticed that trend I had schools built for the poor of our country. You benefited from both programs and I can't tell you how proud I am of you," The Pasha's voice was gentle and compassionate. 

      Bisha just looked at the Pasha for a moment before he started to blink rapidly. It was obvious to Nahla that Bisha was about to cry but didn't want to do so in front of the Pasha. Nahla reached across the table to clasp Bisha's, silently telling him that she supported him totally while unknown tears ran down his face. For his part the Pasha looked at Bisha with no censor or disgust at his silent tears. Nahla glanced at the rest of the party, hoping that none of them were ashamed about Bisha's tears, but thankfully they looked just as supportive as Nahla could hope. Not that she was surprised, but you never really knew how people would act until the crises came.

     The Pasha turned to look at Nahla, "If I May, I have arranged for us to visit the Samieat al Jihar in the morning.  The Narn Dargra was insistent that I reward you for the protection of her Narn Khanij, our Bisha.  As such, I have had the artificers at the Samieat al Jihar working on a little gift for you, I hope you like it."    

      Nahla knew without words that the Pasha was changing the topic to give Bisha a chance to collect himself without calling attention to his silent tears, something that Nahla was grateful for. Nahla wasn't sure if the Pasha's actions were normal for him or just because of the treaty nor did she care. Her Duyu was getting the support and help he needed and that was all she cared about. Of course getting an item created by the justifiably famous artificers of the Samieat al Jihar was almost too much to believe. These were the same people that had created a huge number of the majical devices used through out Ardu. Nahla was starting to look forward to it even if the Pasha had only announced the visit to take attention from Bisha.

Lightning's Call

     Irene was awake long before the servant knocked on the door to announce breakfast and find out if she was eating in her quarters or at the morning table. Getting breakfast in her rooms was something that Irene wasn't used to yet. While she knew that in some Zwergin households, usually the very rich, you could choose to eat in your rooms. But in the vast majority of households everyone ate in the dining room. So getting to eat in her rooms was a very new experience, even after all of the travel to so many different countries. Irene was thinking of eating in her rooms and telling the waiting servant so when there was another knock on the door. This servant was there to ask her that once she was done with breakfast could she please go to Nahla's quarters? The Pasha had plans to take them all to the Samieat al Jihar and it would be easiest for them all to meet up in Nahla's rooms since they were the most convenient for everyone to get mounts.

      The second servant left as soon as she had agreed allowing Irene to tell the first servant that she would be eating in her rooms and asked how she could find Nahla's new quarters. A flash of a smile crossed the servants face before he showed her the bell ropes and which one to use to call the servants. When Irene arrived at Nahla's rooms she saw that she was the first one to arrive which meant they could talk about their concerns for Devshi and her obsession with learning to fight. Irene was starting to get concerned about it and thanks to some quick conversations Irene could tell that Nahla was too. Now all they needed to do was to make sure the rest of the party was aware of their concerns.

       The Pasha must of had someone keeping an eye on the party, Irene wasn't surprised considering what her Nini's job as Helwacher or the Twin Emperors head of security. The Pasha had shown up before they could summon a servant to let him know they were all here. Unlike yesterdays lunch, today the Pasha was kitted up in full formal attire including the huge turban that completely covered his large horns as well as most of his hair. It didn't take long for all of them to get mounted and they were quickly on their way to the Samieat al Jihar to see this new device that the Pasha had commanded be created. Irene looked at Nahla and wondered just what kind of weapon the Pasha would consider appropriate for her. 

      The whole way to the Samieat al Jihar Bisha had been excitedly babbling about returning to his first school, the one he had attended before he had gone to the Adikha Yunavarasiti. Irene was more than a little amused at Bisha's enthusiasm about going to his old school, it was clear to her that Bisha had enjoyed his time here immensely. Irene was glad that at least for this morning Bisha had forgotten about his sorrow if only for awhile. All the while Bisha was talking about his time at the Samieat al Jihar and how he was hoping to see his best friend Eyman Kartal, the person that had gifted him his little friend Khomal. 

      They had all no sooner entered through the main gate into the school proper when a high trilling whistle, almost like a bird echoed around the courtyard. Irene watched as Bisha barely waited long enough for his horse to stop before he had almost thrown himself off making the poor confused animal snort and start to shy. Surprisingly it was the Pasha who reached out and grabbed the horse by its halter and started to expertly calm it. A clatter of hard soled shoes rang out over the cobble stones as Bisha and an unknown Ashfani that Irene quickly surmised must be the Eyman that Bisha had been babbling about most of the journey here. At least the Pasha didn't seem to be put out by Bisha's abrupt dismount of his horse. In fact he seemed to be more than a little amused by the whole scene.

        It only took a moment for the stable hands to arrive at a run allowing everyone else to dismount in a much calmer manner than Bisha had while like always Ryah stayed at Nahla's side. Irene was having a very hard time keeping the dignified face that Zwergin manners dictated while she watched Bisha act like a giddy school boy. Bisha and his friend had obviously missed each other. Their greeting involved a whole lot of back slapping interspersed with them holding each other apart with hands on the others shoulders. This went on for a couple of minutes before Eyman caught sight of the Pasha and the rest of their party. Bisha's friend froze in place for a moment which caused Bisha to look the same direction that Eyman's eyes had gone. They both froze in place before they both slammed their fists into their chests, clearly Bisha had forgotten in his excitement that he'd arrived with the Pasha. A quick look at the Pasha's face confirmed that he found that amusing because it was clear that the sight made it difficult for him to keep his face straight. 

     "I'm here to lead you to the head artificers My Lord," Eyman blushed but managed to stammer out as the Pasha returned his honorific then gestured for him to lead the way. 

       Eyman led them to the test field furthest from where the main part of the school. At the northern most side there was a tower standing all alone looking out at the open field. Standing at the base of the tower were five artificers who appeared to be waiting for them to arrive. Behind the artificers was a group of younger people most of whom seemed to be holding writing implements. These were probably scribes there to document the results of whatever item they were here to see. Irene was very surprised when the introductions happened. Those weren't scribes to document the test they were students there to learn and hep with the test about to happen.

     "Miss Nahla," said the most ornately dressed of those waiting. "If you would step forward please and take this."

      Irene watched as a vaguely confused Nahla stepped forward and took the offered staff that had a metal cap at one end with three small bells that looked like iron attached to the top of it by a ring. Irene thought that a staff was an unusual choice for a weapon of any kind but at least it was somewhat similar to the spear that Nahla usually used. The little bells did make a nice jingling sound as Nahla inspected the staff before looking back up at the chief for instructions of how to use it. The instructions were very easy, just shake the staff three times and then to hit the ground three times. After the third strike on the ground Nahla was asked to hit the target with the staff. The staff shaking then hitting the ground was to charge the majic so that a lightning bolt would hit whatever she struck. Irene saw that Nahla looked pleased with the weapon overall before she tried it.

     At the artificers insistence Irene joined everyone but Nahla off to the side next to the younger artificers with Ryah at her side instead of Nahla's for a change. Clearly Nahla trusted Irene with her beloved friend, a trust that was all the more appreciated considering that the Zwergin and the Oristani had been spatting with each other over boundary lines for almost a hundred years now. Nahla walked across the field to stand next to the dummy target that was already set up in the middle of the testing grounds. Irene wondered what the artificers made that needed a target that, as far as Irene knew, was usually used for sword or archery practice. Irene watched as Nahla did everything that the artificers had told her to do. The artificers explained that there were three levels of power that were reached by striking the butt of the staff on the ground. On the third strike the staff started arcing electricity, but it didn't seem to be affecting Nahla at all. The artificers on the other hand suddenly bunched up together and started having an animated discussion between them.

     Then Nahla took a step back from the target dummy, pointed the staff at it before she did a quick spin and got a solid strike on the dummy right where someone's kidney would be.  A blinding bolt of lightning with deafening thunder clap came out of nowhere and disintegrated the dummy. The only part that remained was a small part of its smouldering stand stuck out from the ground.  Everyone stood in silence, witnessing the power of the blast. Irene's first clue that something not going the way the artificers expected was one of them absentmindedly dropping his writing tablet while everyone stood in a silent shock seconds for a few. Nahla  however stood there with a strange look on her face and Irene couldn't figure out if it was  total shock, pure joy or both. When Irene took just the barest moment for thought she decided that it was probably both. 

     Suddenly the silence was broken by the oldest artificers That Irene assumed were the senior most of the group loudly arguing with each other while everyone else just sort of stood there stunned  watching the show. Nahla nonchalantly started walking back to the group. The look on her face confirming to Irene that Nahla was pleased with the new weapon even through her habitually stoic expression. The Pasha walked up to the animated group held up a hand to silence everyone and calmly asked something in Ashfani. At first they all tried to respond at the same time, but at another raised hand from the Pasha the apparent leader of the group spoke.In rapid Ashfani that Irene couldn't even get the general gist of. Luckily Bisha leaned closer to Irene and quietly whispered so only she could hear that the weapon was "Apparently the weapon was a lot stronger than it was supposed to be and they're trying to figure out why." 

      When Nahla got back to the group her expression had settled on excited. For a change she didn't look like the stoic shaman but instead Nahla looked like a little child with a new toy. It was a difference that Irene was happy to see. In fact Nahla clearly a lot more relaxed since their visit to Nahla's clan and her mentor. The head artificer approached Nahla and asked her to try the weapon again on another practice dummy and pointed to the nearest one in a group of ten, a request that Nahla happily obliged.  First Nahla shook the staff three times, causing the bells to jingle musically again. Then Nahla struck the ground three times and once again there was electricity arcing around the weapon. This time Nahla decided to go for a jab with the belled end of the staff just above the bellybutton. The intense blast of lightning and thunder was less surprising, but this time the lightning branched out from the target she struck and destroyed the majority of the remaining dummies. Each of the other targets were heavily scorched from the lightning strikes while the one that Nahla had actually struck was just as destroyed as the first one. 

     The artificers huddled again and had another animated discussion before the leader walked up to Nahla, "I would like you to try something. Do you see the observation tower over there?" He pointed at the tower that was at the very end of the testing field. "This time I would like you to swing the staff as if you were going to strike the tower from here, do you understand?" Nahla nodded and the artificer ran back to his group to observe. 

      Nahla again shook the staff three times, struck the ground three times and this time swung the staff in a great arc like she was going to strike someone in the head. The moment Nahla stopped the swing with the staff pointing at the tower a bolt of lightning shot out from the bells and struck the side of the tower. There was a minor explosion and some stones broke off the side of the tower that once again  caused a moment of silence. The head artificer signaled to Nahla to come join him, as she got closer to him he produced a small something from his pocket and held it out pointing it at her. It had a small stone on it that glowed and it made a whining sound. The closer Nahla got the brighter the stone glowed and the louder the annoying whine got. By the time Nahla was once again standing next to the artificer the whine was so loud it that it echoed inside Irene's head.

    The artificer did something to the device and it finally stopped making noise. For some reason that Irene didn't understand the artificer began to shout excitedly in Ashfani all the while gesturing wildly. In just a few moments all of the artificers were also shouting and gesturing reminding Irene of a bunch of domestic birds at feeding time. Irene quickly buried the thought since their colorful outfits just added to the image. The artificers were so caught up in their excitement that they were even ignoring the Pasha. Fortunately he seemed more amused than annoyed and even made a comment or two as well. That was when Bisha  remembered that he was the only member of the party present that actually spoke Ashfani and started to translate what was going on.

         "The head artificer wants us to go over there and line up so he can scan us."  Bisha explained, "I've heard of these, it's a majic detector. It can detects the presence of majic as well as it strength.  From what he's saying, apparently the strong majic field is coming from Nahla, not the staff, and he wants to see if we radiate majic as well." 

     Irene grunted and thought about it for a second, it would make sense. Ever since the accident at Adikha Yunavarasiti strange things and events have followed the group. Like Bisha's suddenly overly powerful spells, her sudden ability to perceive things faster in combat, Devshi's tiger, or even Ten Rabbit's occasional strange behavior. The only one who hadn't shown something strange was Nahla . Maybe it was because Nahla was a shaman or because she was Oristani but Irene had actually thought that nothing had changed about Nahla, but apparently that was not the case. Irene wasn't sure that she believed the majic radiating from them but agreed that something had to be going on considering all of the strange occurrences that had happened to them.

      The artificer had them  line up stand side by side with a good ten feet between them. He started at Nahla and once again waved his device up and down Nahla's body, starting at her feet and ending at her head. The stone gave off a bright red light and the device made a loud whining sound before he turned it off and then went to the next person who happened to be Devshi. Once again he waved the device same thing and again had the same reaction. The artificer went down the line to Irene, and for a third time he repeated the test and got the same result. Irene then looked at Devshi and Nahla with a questioning expression that Nahla didn't notice since she was giving all of her attention to the artificer while Devshi shrugged her equal confusion back to Irene.

     The artificer went to the next person, Ten Rabbit, and repeated the test but this time the stone shone almost blindingly bright and the whining was loud enough to hurt their ears.  Finally he reached Bisha to repeat his test, but this time as soon as he turned the device on it made a high pitched screaming whine and the shining stone popped. At least when the stone popped out the whine stopped. Irene had watched Ryah cringe visibly every time the device had made its whining noise and at the last one had actually tried to cover her ears with her paws. Ryah didn't look upset at the whines end, in fact she was now actively wagging her tail and almost bouncing in joy at the disturbing whines demise with the device.

     The artificer didn't say a word, walked back to the group of artificer's and they had an intense but quiet discussion, after a minute of this he turned around and addressed the group at large.

     "For some reason all of you are emanating majic like each of you were majic items yourselves. This is something that we have never seen in any other person," The head artificer looked around at the whole group clearly wanting to ask questions but having no clue how.

     "Well, Bisha started. "We all were at ground zero when the accident happened at the Adikha Yunavarasiti. Does that help?" 

     "It does. I had heard there had been an explosion, but I did not get any details. Can you tell me what happened?" The artificer asked.

     Irene listened as Bisha was the first person to describe the incredible events that took place at the yunavarasiti. All of them had an unspoken agreement to not talk about what had happened during the accident. They had all been too busy with all of the strangeness that had been happening since. As a result Irene had never heard about the strangely dressed person who had caused the explosion by killing the head of the Jada research department. An assassination that caused the department head to fall into the device they had been using for their research. The resulting explosion had been powerful enough to completely destroy the top few floors completely off of the tower. She hadn't even seen the assassin fly Bisha to the ground just moments before the disaster before running away.

      Irene remembered that she had been talking to some off-duty guards when everything had happened. A sudden noise and flash of light had startled Irene so much she had almost fallen off of the garden wall she'd been sitting on while talking to the guards at one of the gates. Irene and the off-duty guards all jumped to there feet and started to run towards the tower in the center of the campus. Irene hadn't gone more than a couple of feet when she saw Bisha perched atop of a galloping horse barely managing to stay on. Ten Rabbit had been hard on Bisha's heels, looking competent on horse back for the first time that Irene had ever seen. Along with the two of them were the parties mounts, Nahla on Usha with Ryah herding them towards the gate that Irene was standing at.

     No sooner had Irene seen Nahla when her own mount bounded up to her. Ryah had stopped the parties beasts with Irene's already saddled Erch stopped close enough to her that she could reach its reins. No sooner had Irene grabbed the Erch's reins than she was on its back, she was so happy that Alber had insisted that she learn to mount at the run. There were many times that Irene heartily wished Alber into the deepest hole on Ardu for how she'd been trained but that day she was very glad for it, or at least that part of it. As Bisha, Ten Rabbit and Nahla stopped near her Devshi appeared and mounted almost as quickly as Irene had. The rubble hadn't even stopped falling and all of them were out of the gates and on their way back to Alkhadharam.

An Interesting Discovery

    Once the head artificer had learned about the explosion at the Adikha Yunavarasiti the older gentleman nodded his head then started to pace back and forth in front of them with his hands clasped behind him. It was obvious to Ten Rabbit that the artificers had forgotten that the Pasha was also there, again.  He had watched them do exactly that before they had all been told to line up and be scanned. The Pasha clearly wasn't worried about being forgotten for the moment, if anything he looked amused by and very intent on what the artificers were doing.  Bisha was over with the rest of the artificers talking to each other in rapid-fire Ashfani. Nahla had walked back over to her four legged friends where she seated herself on the ground. She had draped an arm over Usha's neck while Ryah's head was in her lap, Ten Rabbit could hear her quietly murmuring to them. Devshi was standing off to the side watching everything with bright eyes, her hands caressing the hammer that she now wore everywhere.

     Ten Rabbit looked around to find the tiger that Devshi now rode. Usually it was by her side but this time it was sitting off to one side of the artificers watching them as they gestured emphatically to each other over what they were saying. He just hoped that it wasn't interesting in eating artificer, Ten Rabbit was fairly certain that it wouldn't eat Bisha.