Who

S'ayde, Annadine, Rhimell, Willimina, Caliban, Moanna, Igraine, Griggs, Timotin

What

Restitution is sought for damages on both sides of the Imani and Zingari, some surprising conclusions are reached.

Violence, Sexual Themes, Adult Situations, Drug discussion,
TRIGGER WARNINGS

When

It is midmorning of the fifteenth day of the twelfth month of the eighth turn of the 12th pass.

Where

Igen Weyr, The Igen Desert, The Caravan Grounds, Igraine's Yurt

OOC Date 20 Sep 2016 04:00

 

Sayde_4.jpg annadine_default.jpg rhimell_default.jpg willimina_default.jpg caliban_default.jpg moanna_default.jpg Griggs.jpg Timotin_1.jpg


Imani Encampment

Set up outside the Imani Wagon proper, the rich golds, reds and oranges so distinct to the Imani adorn the spacious confines of this large tent. Pillows and cushions line the brightly patterned rugs, and tea sets in silver and crystal are presented with liquids of various colors. A hookah sits to one side atop a small chest of drawers containing all manner of herbs, oils, and spices.


It has been days since the incident with her daughter, but If Annadine is concerned over the outcome it has absolutely no bearing in the way she comports herself. Reclined on the pillows, there is a crystal goblet of some dark liquor on the tray before her, and the hookah pipe hangs delicately from one corner of her mouth as she reads over a stack of hides. Only one of her guards stands out in front of the tent, the rest tending to the Imani animals in the pens or on errands.

S'ayde has been slightly sick, watching this woman for days now, this woman who leaves so many things to be desired…She disgusts him. It's almost like being given an extra special treat when the woman leaves herself unguarded save for one man. Easy squeezings for a man with S'ayde's skill set and background. It's almost nothing for the spymaster to silently take out the guard on watch, and just as easy to stow the man in a place unseen. He isn't dead, but he'll feel that way when he wakes up hours from now. (Someone should probably check on him when he does, being knocked out that long is REALLY bad for you…says the player with an Archer obsession.) From here, S'ayde silently slips into Annadine's tent, a vicious and calculating smile on his lips. "You really should retrain your guard, they're pitiful…" His voice is threatening and mocking all in the same tone, low and silky and dark. This is the Dr. Jakyl to S'ayde's Mr. Hyde, as dark and dangerous to an enemy as he is sweet and kind to those he loves.

A ring of pale smoke curls from Annadine's lips, those black eyes lifting from her hide work nonplussed. "My brother already got the jump on you if you are here to impose another lecture." Sucking another deep breath from the pipe as her gaze falls back to the paperwork. "Even I have to admit, I'm a little impressed by how much trouble a little bastard girl can cause around here. The Reika have already placed a trade embargo until the matter between the Imani and Zingari is settled." Another ring of smoke drifts in the man's direction. "So are you here to kill me? To threaten and make me fear for my life? Perhaps I should give the little bitch some credit, she's more conniving than I thought."

S'ayde barks out an indignant laugh. "As if I would waste my breath lecturing the likes of you woman." S'ayde sneers at Annadine, his features showing nothing but disgust for the creature in front of him. Though, he does seem to look pleased that the Reika have cut the Imani off. "Trust me…" S'ayde continues, a growl in his voice as the muscles in his jaw twitch with irritation. "I would love nothing more than to wrap my hands around that skinny neck of yours and squeeze until the blood vessels in your eyes popped and the very life was sucked from you…" There's an air about S'ayde that lends his words truth, that if he were allowed, he really would kill this woman and leave her in an indignant heap to be found by the first innocent passer-by. Or perhaps he'd feed her to Kataskiath, though he might fear she'd cause the green horrible indigestion. "And you'll watch your tongue when you speak of Moanna, or I'll remove it for you." S'ayde crosses his arms, eyes boring into the flippant female before him. "No…I have the unpleasant task of bringing you to my beloved leader to discuss the repercussions of your actions against a person of the Zingari people, recompense is owed."

"My my, but such violent language. Really, the flair for the dramatic is to be commended. If the Imani had a few like you in our pocket, this incident would never have been necessary." Those black eyes glitter in the lamp light, "Tell me, does that daughter of mine know about this darker side of yours? Is she aware that your heart is as black as mine? I wonder what she will think of you when this is over and done. Threatening the woman who gave her life? " Annadine laughs, "The girl is not what you think she is, what did she fill your ears with tales of dark deeds and darker ambitions?" Annadine lifts the glass as she stands. "Another matter as it is, Moanna was never formally released from the clan, hence still a subject of Imani law." She eyes S'ayde, "You and your kind do not frighten me, I've been at this game longer."

The Zingari always have a flair for the dramatic, but that doesn't mean that there's any less truth to the words that left S'ayde's mouth, he'd kill her if he had the chance. An amused sneer crosses his lips, though. "You could never have the likes of me or mine in your pocket." He states, insinuating that Zingari spies are much too good for the likes of the Imani, and in his mind, they are. Mention of Moanna and S'ayde's dark past puts a secretive smile upon S'ayde's lips, who knows Moanna suspects more than he's given up, and he leaves the words unanswered, knowing they were said to bait him, and he won't give in to it. When the woman stands, S'ayde's eyes follow her like a hawk, needled in on her position and body language. Annadine's words on caravan politics have him laughing as if Annadine has said the funniest thing on Pern, his sides are almost hurt by the time he's done laughing. "That may be true if she had been underage, but she is not. She has been of age and able to make her own decisions for quite some time. You are just upset for losing your whipping dog…How sad for you."

"No, Rhimell wouldn't suffer a prostitute to be kept around." She looks back at him pouring another glass. "That is what you were before, isn't it? My men looked into you after the incident, better to know what you are dealing with." She eyes him up and down, "All kinds of words float around attached to your name." She laughs at the last, "So we both agree that she's a dog, I'm sure my daughter will love to hear that." She shakes her head, "I'll make this quite simple actually, All of this goes away for thirty marks, and written contract that the Zingari will not touch Imani lands again. You can keep the little bitch, she isn't what I am here for, nor does she have any real trade value - well unless you intend to prostitute her out, I suppose she might make a few extra marks that way." Annadine waves her hand.

S'ayde smirks. "Aye I was, and I was good at it too." S'ayde holds absolutely no shame for having been a prostitute, he likes sex, and getting paid for it just makes it all the better sometimes. S'ayde really is shameless when it comes to certain things, and this is top of the list. Good luck barbing him with that one bitch. As for the other words associated with S'ayde's "good" name, well, he really couldn't give a flying fuck about those either.

Annadine's offer and references to Moanna are insulting, and they enrage S'ayde, who makes a quick thing of disarming Annadine of anything in her hands before wrapping his hands around her throat, squeezing hard, cutting off any chance of her yelping or breathing for that matter. Red rage makes him want to see her eyes pop out of her head like an avian laid egg. "You will not speak of Moanna that way, nor will you twist my words again, woman, or I will make sure you never speak again." Able to keep his choke hold with one of his hands, S'ayde slaps the woman soundly across the face. He, who usually would not lay a hand on a woman in anger, has crossed a line where he normally wouldn’t. But how could he stand and let this woman insult someone he cares for, and then make asinine demands in the same breath?

"If I would not be staked out for thread for killing you I'd do it right now…but as it is…too many know I am here." His hold loosens enough for her to breathe a little, though noise might still be a hard thing. "Your terms are unacceptable and you will come with me to meet with Willimina or I will drag you there kicking and screaming if I have to." S'ayde scowls. "Is. That. Clear?" He says, over annunciating and pausing between each word to make sure he's understood.

Annadine reaches for the hookah, aiming it at S'ayde's face along with the burning cinders in an attempt to have him release her. When she can breathe again, something truly dark glints in those eyes of hers, and she laughs, though the sound is more like a rasping cough. "Hail - the conquering hero." Like gravel and velvet emerge her mocking words. That her guards and a man with a scarred face appear in the doorway at that moment, is probably not a coincidence, nor the fact that there had only been one guard on duty.

"I would appreciate it if you would unhand my wife." Rhimell's harsh tones fall quiet. Ice blue eyes unflinchingly taking in the scene. "And I will be happy to take up this grievance with your master. If you would be so kind as to lead the way. It would seem Zingari Hospitality is not quite what it is rumored to be." Two of the four guards move to either side of Anna though they don’t exactly intercede on her behalf, expecting the rider to comply.

By some grace of whoever looks over riders in this world, S'ayde seems to avoid the worst of the cinders, and what does get him doesn't sting too bad, a bit like hot ash. S'ayde is forcing himself to let Annadine go even before her 'husband' intercedes, so it is nothing to listen when the man speaks.

Without, and very near the Imani encampment, Kataskiath lands, eyes whirling in the darkness as she picks her way towards S'ayde and what could be a very unfair fight if S'ayde is left alone.

"You're wife should keep a civil tongue in her mouth." S'ayde spits, even though his own tongue has been less than civil this evening. Internally he chides himself for letting this snake of a woman goad him. "She's about as vile as a poisonous tunnel snake." Even if she isn't as ugly as they are. "Zingari hospitality is better than I have behaved just now, but we do not take insults lightly." Zingari pride is exactly what it's rumored to be. They are a proud people.

"You will both need to come then, Willimina will want to speak with this one directly at some point." A rumble is emitted without the tent, one that ends with an odd hissss of displeasure. "My green awaits without if you'd both be so kind," Oh the sarcasm is so thick, "As to follow me, please. Your guards stay here." No sarcasm in that last. Internally, S'ayde fights to get a hold of his temper and pride, reigning them in heavily before he does something he'll truly end up regretting.

"Though I don't know all of the details of tonight's events, you have comported yourself no better Rider. My wife will stay where she is, while our guards and healers tend to her. Hopefully, you've not damaged her voice. It would be a shame to lose our best singer because of a flare of temper." Rhimell seems to think this solution satisfactory as he is pushing his way out of the tent.

Once outside the man clears his throat out of Annadine’s earshot, eyeing S’ayde. “I should apologize for Anna, her daughter was clearly the better choice for marriage in hindsight, bastard pedigree notwithstanding. I’d already have an heir on the way, and not be worrying about one of my wife’s jealous tantrums.” Rhimell straightens with hand run through greasy looking locks with a sigh. “Girl was a pretty thing too, the kind of hips a man could really hold onto if he could get his hands on them. Very talented dancer, I was too hasty in marrying Anna. But if I hadn’t it would be her Aunt Imara standing here instead of me - and where would that leave us?”

S'ayde takes a deep, heaving breath in before he turns his full attentions on Rhimell. "I admitted as much." He says through barely gritted teeth, adrenaline pumping through his system. A growl escapes him when Rhimell insists Annadine stay right where she is, and while he'll let her be seen by a healer, he can't leave without her, on Willa's orders. S'ayde dearly hopes he damaged the woman's voice, that she croaks like a swamp creature the rest of her life.

He stalks outside, letting the woman think she's won for now. When Rhimell speaks again, it is hard for S'ayde not to let the anger well back up, but he manages. This man isn't trying to be insulting to Moanna, S'ayde can tell he's of a practical nature. However…

"I would appreciate it sir if you'd not speak of Candidate Moanna in such a way, she's an esteemed member of the Zingari and a potential for the clutch on Igen's sands. She's much more than a piece of arse… much more than her 'bastard' heritage and whatever other atrocious labels the woman who birthed her titles her with." Here is the more political and level headed S'ayde.

S'ayde shrugs at the man's question, though. He has no clue who Aunt Imara is so he wouldn't have a first clue if she was worse or better. "She has to come, sir, she owes satisfaction to my caravan's leader, and there's the matter of the Deleri field to settle. Though in that case, I think your people take too much offense sir, we did no lasting or serious damage to the field, and we left as peacefully as we came… your wife acts as if we committed an act of war…"

Kataskiath looms nearby, dark, heavy shadow in a sea of shadows, saving her eyes, which cast eerie shadows on her face and toothy muzzle.

"I will have to ask that you keep her in line however…put a muzzle on her if you have too." S’ayde may keep his temper, but there’s nothing saying Kataskiath might not go rogue and eat her for a mid-flight snack either.

Rhimell is even in his regard of S'ayde, a scarred brow lifting at the suggestion. "Titles are a thing with you, aren't they?" Rhimell shrugs, "Candidate. Anna neglected to tell me that little piece of information." Something in the man's tone suggests the woman will pay for it later. "Women are good for one thing my friend, and that's ensuring the survival of a line. You are right, though, it isn't the girl's fault some bronzerider planted seeds where he ought not to have."

There is a shake of the man's head. "If it were just the plants growing that would be one thing, but the Deleri isn't a very common shrub. That Canyon is home to several rare plants truthfully, though we take pains not to let the information spread beyond our circles. No, it is the fact that I am out some considerable profits because the herb has entered circulation. So far as I've been able to trace your Bazaar is the source." Pale eyes flick over S'ayde. "How might you explain that sudden increase in supply?"

Rhimell waves a hand, "Just pop her in the mouth if she gets too noisy, I find it works about eighty percent of the time."

Weyr titles are not really S'ayde's thing, despite being a rider. He's good about them within the rider ranks because he has to be, being a greenrider and all. However S'ayde is trying desperately to keep an air of professionalism when it comes to Moanna because she's so off limits to him right now it isn't even funny. "I'm a rider, they sort of have to be."

There were times in S'ayde's life where he might have agreed with Rhimell's opinion on women, but S'ayde has come far and changed much since he came to Igen to be Willimina's personal guard and spymaster. That seemed eons ago…

But we digress…

"No one was given direction by land to that valley, and very few trusted riders were given leave to land there. Your secrets are safe with us, of that I can assure you." A calculated look crosses S'ayde's face as he studies Rhimell's face, his inner self working on sussing the man out. He may sense some opportunity here. "As for how your herb got into circulation, of that, I have no idea. However, I can and will find that out for you. For the sake of honesty and good faith as well," S'ayde pulls a good, 8 marks from his belt pouch, in various forms, and presents them to Rhimell; "I owe you this, because I did take a pouch of Deleri clippings."

"I am more than I seem as well, Rhimell, a man of many talents. There is a healer I know, who specializes in poisons, she made some things for me from the plant. She has seen it before in her travels. I am in possession of all she made, so you need not fear 'tis me circulating your herb. I have my own reasons for wanting it."

Rhimell's wave of the hand and suggestion have S'ayde looking at Rhimell and jerking his thumb back toward the tent. Amusement crosses his confused features just before he speaks. "Now… If you're going to go and give me permission to whack her around, why'd ya go on and stop me back there?" Singer or no, wouldn't it have been great to not have to hear that anymore? S'ayde had already decided not to kill her, but he could have crushed her vocal chords…could have rendered her mute…

"Heroic Fools." Rhimell murmurs, "I would not trade places for all the world Greenrider."

Pale eyes focus as S'ayde lists the 'precautions' taken. Rhimell accepts the marks, but also notes, "You are about two marks short, but as this is a showing of good faith, I'd like for things to get back to normal quickly." The marks are pouched

Rhimell seems dubious of the comments about the healer, "I've tried growing it elsewhere, I would dearly love to know how she managed the trick of finding it anywhere else other than the Imani Valley." Another wave of battered hands, "Most do have their own reasons for wanting it, if diluted properly it is said that the herb will show you some inner truth, undiluted you wind up facing nightmarish fears."

A lift of the man's shoulders, "But, I have to wonder, does every Zingari who gets a little roughed up get this kind of treatment?" Rhimell wonders absently, "Seems like an awful lot of energy would be required, given the size of your clan."

The last has the man laughing. "Have you seen her daughter dance? I mean truly dance? Imara never had a more devoted pupil I think. Take what Moanna does with dancing and translate that over to singing and you will understand something of Annadine's talent." Rhimell shakes his head, "So long as you don't leave a mark, there is an amount of leeway. Annadine has many talents. Not the least of which is her cunning and ambition."

Rhimell fixes the younger man with an icy look. "Or do you think it was by accident that you found her with one quickly dispatched guard, and she goaded you into a fury, just in time to have the event witnessed by Imani guards and myself? Only an idiot would underestimate her." He sighs then. "Of course this does put us at something of even terms. You have one member of your clan by your word abused - and you have visited such damage on a member of mine."

S'ayde readily hands over the other two marks, Rhimell's comment ignored. "Aye, we would like the same…" S'ayde trails off, heaving a great sigh of exasperation. What the fuck had been wrong with him earlier? He knew better than to fall for traps like that. He's internally kicking himself for being such a sands be damned fool.

"I'll ask her where else she's seen this plant, she's not a liar that one." It actually creeps S'ayde out how Igraine can hide the fact that she's a spy and completes her missions without ever once uttering a lie. It's a skill S'ayde would dearly love to acquire. All of three people outside the Zingari spy craft know Igraine is a spy. Willimina, Ko'an, and Tallel. An involuntary shudder creeps down the man's spine.

S'ayde can't help it, something carnal and primitive slips into his features when Rhimesnull mentions Moanna's dancing, which has only improved under Willa's tutillage. S'ayde laughs. "You've no idea sir…" He smiles secretively. He sneers when Moanna is compared to Annadine. "Wouldn't care if she had the sweetest voice on Pern…she's a desert snake in song avian's clothing." S'ayde shivers. "I apologize but I really just cannot find anything nice to say about her…" S'ayde's interactions with the woman had been nothing but venomous thus far.

"Aye, I'd say on the abuse front, we're about even…" S'ayde snorts. "Look, I'll apologize to you sir, for perhaps damaging a valuable 'asset' to your caravan by laying my hands on your wife, I truly am sorry to you for that…But, I'll be upfront, I'll not apologize to her." S'ayde sneers in the direction of the tent. "And be assured… I won't underestimate her again." Kataskiath summons S'ayde mentally. "My bonded says my leader awaits… If you'd be so kind, I'll ready the straps."

"I would be, curious to find out," Rhimell notes evenly. He doesn't miss that change as the dancer is discussed either. His expression oddly neutral, save the slightest curve at the corner of his mouth. Something darker in the man's expression with the revelation edged and sharp.

"Then it would be wise to say nothing at all, I asked for no apologies save what I will lose from her performances, and that is a monetary thing." He eyes the dragon warily. "If we must."

Skip one awkward set of time in which straps must be fitted, and S'ayde makes Annadine ride in back so he doesn't have to deal with her. Thank Faranth for :: between::, it makes things quick. Kataskiath comes out of ::between:: a bit high up in the air, a mischievous rumble escaping her before she folds her wings and dives towards the ground, bugling her defiance of gravity!

She pulls up very near the ground, skimming the last of the desert before climbing upward at a surprising speed to clear the height of the weyr lip and sail for the caravan grounds. They could have just ::betweened:: to the bowl, but Kataskiath can never resist the urge to terrify her passengers! S'ayde doesn't carry passengers often for just this reason.

They land outside the caravan grounds, Kataskiath trumpeting their arrival to any in hearing range. Once she settles, S'ayde slips from the straps and leaves TImotin to help their guests down. He must find Willa, Griggs, Igraine and see if his 'lizard, sent earlier in the day had successfully fetched Moanna.

Whatever Moanna thought S’ayde might have summoned her for, the last thing she expected or wanted was to come face to face with the Imani Wagon Leaders again. Anger sparks through every inch of her frame, her steps twisting to do an abrupt about face - only to find Caliban settled squarely in her path. She hisses something at him, and he leans to murmur something in her ear while moving to hopefully block her from the view of the newcomers. At least that had been his intention.

“I must say Moanna, you are the last person I expected to see today.” Rhimell’s low voice almost a purr as he closes the distance between himself and the dancer. A rough hand is settled almost possessively on her shoulder as he bends to address her speaking several inches from her ear. “You must perform for me again before we return, It would be such a shame to leave Igen without seeing your talents on display.”

Annadine is strangely demure in the presence of her husband, almost another person entirely, though the venomous look she aims at her daughter reveals a flicker of the usual attitude, but it dies down quickly after a look from Rhimell.

It’s Griggs S’ayde runs into first, though he sees Moanna off in the distance near where he landed. Shit. S’ayde gives a shrill whistle. “Griggs!!”

A man in the Zingari crowd turns to face S'ayde, long hair nearly brushing his shoulders with the motion. Keen brown eyes zero in on the spymaster/rider and he gives a curt nod before moving over. "Evening S'ayde, what can I do for you?"

S'ayde jerks his thumb towards Moanna and Caliban, keen eyes now spotting Rhimell as well. "Escort the lot of them to Igraine's yurt, she's there. Keep guard in the yurt so you can assist Igraine if need be. "I've already sent Zambizi to alert Igraine. She should be expecting you." With that, S'ayde stalks off towards Willimina's wagon to alert her of their arrival and the fact that they are already headed to Igraine's.

"Yes sir, it'll get done." Griggs gives S'ayde a salute before watching the spymaster stalk off in the direction of the leader's homes. Well, there goes a night of drinking right down the proverbial drain… Sighing, Griggs turns on his heel and approaches the group with a smile. "Good evening Moanna! Caliban!" Griggs gives a nod in greeting, his tone friendly, but business-like. "And good evening esteemed guests." Griggs has no clue who these people are, so he's at his most professional best. "My name's Griggs, I'm the Zingari captain of the guard. If you will all please follow me, I will escort you someplace more comfortable." Griggs gives Mo and Cal a pointed look. PLEASE! Please obey and follow Griggs so S'ayde doesn't skin him later. Pretty Please?

Moanna stiffens at the touch, she breathes in, swallows and breathes out slowly, the faintest hint of a tremor in her frame. "Rhimell." Her clear alto sharp with the word. Everything in her stance says she is going to bolt rather than stay another minute with his hand on her.

Caliban shoves a hand squarely in the man's chest in greeting, "Hi there. Nice to meet you." Utter bullshit, but Cal knows Moanna well enough to know if he doesn't do something to get the man's hand off her, things will go south quickly. "Ah, Griggs."

Rhimell is forced to relinquish his grip on Moanna to shake the Zingari man's hand, but he remains uncomfortably close, a faint twitch of his lips noting her reaction. "Come Anna. Let's get this mess over with. Do lead on. It was nice meeting you." His hand moving to the small of Moanna's back in a gesture of guidance as his wife takes his arm.

Annadine slinks over to her husband's side, the picture of obedience, adjusting the sleeves on her gown. She pretends to be oblivious to the interaction between Rhimell and Moanna, though her body language suggests an element of discomfort.

Willimina is currently working at the table in her wagon, sending and receiving missives and counting up the books. It's tedious work and for a caravan leader, never done. She sets down her stylus and rubs at her eyes, looking out her open door longingly. She just wants to go hoe, to the yurt with Tallel, where by now certainly, he is readying the children for bed. A soft smile crosses her lips, she has such wonderful little family. A deep sigh comes next, but there are these ledgers the balance and a meeting yet with the leaders of The Imani.

Willimina pinches the bridge of her nose and squints her eyes shut, exhaling another sigh as she tries to stem a headache beginning to bloom behind her eyes. Really. This whole mess couldn't be over with already?

S'ayde finds Willimina right where he figures she'll be. He pops his head into the open wagon door, knocking at the door. He steps in before being greeted, a wary look on his face along with a healthy mixture of anger and frustration. "The Imani leaders are here and headed for Igraine's with Moanna and Caliban now… and, I have something to confess Ma'am…"

Willimina opens her eyes at the knock to find S'ayde moving into her wagon. Willimina tosses her hair into a messy bun on her crown and leans back in her chair, eyes narrowing. "Hello S'ayde, I'll come to them shortly. What have you done?"

"I was a fool and let that shells be damned woman goad me into a trap…I nearly choked the viper's tongue from her head… I think perhaps I may have…evened the playing field when it comes to Moanna's assault. I apologize… I really don't know what came over me." It's not often it's seen, and often because there's no reason for it, but here's to wishing Pern had cameras because S'ayde actually looks ashamed.

Willimina crosses her arms under her breasts as she listens, a look of irritation blooming on her face. "Fantastic." She closes her eyes and takes a log breath, exhaling slowly before opening them again. Pain spikes behind her eyes briefly and she's left rubbing her temple before it fades…a little. She knows why he'd been goaded, even if S'ayde doesn't. And she would bet all her marks that it had something to do with his feelings for Moanna, even if he doesn't know they're there yet. And now said target of his unknown affections is a candidate. Why S'ayde? Why torture yourself this way? "Alright, Thanks for the heads up. Are Griggs and Igraine in place?"

"Yes, Ma'am."

"Well then, fetch Timo for me and then you are dismissed. You should report to your wingleader about your whereabouts today if you hadn't already. I don't want the weyr thinking I'm trying to run roughshod over one of their riders, they now hold authority over you, though our continued loyalty to me on the side is much appreciated. Report back here immediately, I'm sure you'll be involved in this somehow now too. If I pay a penalty for you losing your head at someone, then I swear you'll be my go fetch boy until the debt is paid. Clear?" Willimina stands, supporting the weight of her upper body when she places her palms on the table. "And S'ayde?"

"Yes, ma'am, and Yes?"

"I think you should take the meditation class you offer your candidates, might do you some good to remember how to keep our temper." With that, she waves the spymaster off. It's only a few moments before Timotin is there and ready to escort her to Igraine's

Meanwhile…..

Igraine welcomes guests and Griggs alike at the door of her yurt, inviting them inside with a sickly sweet smile that could either be genuine or the best-acted smile this side of Pern. The inside of her yurt looks like a healer's tent and smells like an apothecary. " Good evening to you all, please do come inside and sit at the table."

Griggs takes up a post next to the door, a silent guard in all this.

__

Igraine'sYurtOutside.jpg

This yurt is large and very white, which probably won't last long now that Igraine has moved to a desert climate, so much sand and dirt!!! A black ring goes 'round to separate the top from the bottom of the yurt, and another black ring circles the bottom, for decorative purposes. There is a light, but sturdy wooden door separating inside from out, held to the sturdy frame of the yurt by ornate metal hinges. Upon this door is a hand carved wooden sign that has Igraine's name engraved upon it, along with the symbol of a Zingari Healer. Off to the side there is a small table and chair, and what looks to be a large, handmade, cloth umbrella which provides shade for the sitter. Around back, there is an open, empty supply wagon, which looks to be parked for a bit. A small enclosure has been erected next to Igraine's yurt, it is separated into two sides. One side hosts Igraine's two runners, and the other, her three canines. When Igraine is home and up to entertaining, her doors will be wide open, inviting those from without to enter. But when she is not home, or requires privacy, the doors will be closed and the cute engraved sign will be replaced by one with the words Gone, be back soon upon it.

Igraine'sYurtInside.jpg

Yurts provide a much larger span of space than your average caravan wagon, and this is why Igraine has chosen one over the confined space of a wagon. This 'room' is large and spacious, and because of the white walls and ceiling, looks much larger than it actually is. The yurt has a sturdy frame, so sturdy that Igraine can attach a wooden door, and she has. And she must have done very well on one of her jobs, because it is attached with ornate, metal hinges. Looking straight back from the door you see a large, fluffy looking bed, it's only decoration pristine white bedding, a hand beaded pillow and a purple curtain hanging behind. Two sitting couches, also white and pristine ((How does she do that???)), sit to either side of the bed, also with purple curtains hanging behind them. Between the bed and the couch to the left, is a carving of a mighty looking brown dragon, perched upon a ledge and roaring. The space between the bed and the couch on the right is occupied by a bed table, and sitting upon it is a vase of desert blooms. Directly to the right of the door(coming in) is a large brazier used both for cooking and for heating the space when it is cold. Sweet smelling incense is burned in it constantly, to cover up some of the most unappealing scents of the herbs Igraine works with, which hang in dozens and dozens of small bushels from the ceiling, in various stages of drying. A tall, white cabinet with doors of Zingari glass is host to all of Igraine's healing herbs. A similar cabinet with solid doors and a complicated lock is host to Igraine's more dangerous concoctions. Along the rest of the walls, there is an armoire, a few locked chests another large, locked cabinet. In the middle of the room, there is a large, ornate rug and a wide, square table. A play on a folding room divider divides the table directly in half. One side is set up as a workstation, as is evident by the mortar and pestle residing there, the empty drams, jars and medicine pouches, by the oils and seeds and plant mixtures. The other half of the table boasts another vase of desert blooms and is set for eating and entertaining, with pillows on the ground for sitting rather than chairs. After all, the table is quite low to the ground. Glow baskets line the walls, along with tall, ornate candelabras, which combined keep the yurt brightly lit and shining.

__

Rhimell looks for all the world like a feline that has just captured its dinner. He'll even adjust the cushions for the women in his company, ensuring that he has his seat between mother and daughter. That he slips his hand on the dancer's knee when seated, is just icing on the cake so far as he is concerned. The board is set, and positioned. check.

Caliban's jaw twitches as he watches the man 'guide' Moanna. But it is Sen, landing on his shoulder and squabbling in his ear that forces him to depart, the lizard not leaving him alone until he follows in the direction of Moanna's wagon.

Moanna moves woodenly, forcing herself to take the steps, a quiet fury bubbling inside. At S'ayde who brought the wolves to her doorstep, at Willa for feeling her presence was necessary for the matter, and at herself for being in a position that left her unable to act. Her thoughts flitted to the cage in her wagon, the creature inside it waiting. Truly they had the best intentions, the Zingari - but if they had given her the time, the problem would have been resolved on its own. All she could hope for was that Caliban would understand what was in the cage and by now Igraine was certain to know exactly which vials were missing from that locked cabinet of hers.

Annadine played her part, the same as she always did in Rhimell's presence. It was the price for the power she wanted, and in truth, outside of a few disagreements, they were well suited to each other. She played the role of the fawning wife, but if one looked closely, they might note the way her claws pressed into the man's skin.

Elsewhere…

Upon chasing Sen back to his master’s wagon and finding it unlocked, the Zingari dancer stepped inside. Caliban stared at the vibrantly patterned creature hissing inside its cage, the vials sitting on top he knew for Igraine's. Sen landed atop the cage, hissing and chirping trying to get the silly human to understand. Cal didn’t. But he knew who might.

Cal picks up the cage after throwing one of Moanna's opaque veils over it, pocketing the vials. Iggy would know what to do. Then he mentally swore for using the pet name for Igraine. She'd probably kill him if he ever said it out loud. "Hey Griggs," He calls as he arrives back at the Yurt. "Can you have Igraine come out here for a minute? I need to ask her something." A hiss from the cage. "Might be a matter of life and death."

Igraine isn't stupid, and is quite intuitive in fact. She did notice those vials missing, some time ago, but she figures whomever took them had their reasons. She also notes the discomfort writ all over Moanna. "Moanna, please, come help me make the tea?" And even though there's a please there, Igraine really isn't asking either. And as a candidate, Moanna pretty much has to do what any Igenite tells her.

Griggs catches Igraine's attention and signals there is someone outside to see her. "Keep an eye on things Griggs, I'll be right back. Moanna, make that tea, you know where it is."

Igraine comes outside and looks at Caliban. "What is it? Willa should be here any second.."

"Willa is here now" Comes a familiar and authoritative voice. "What's going on?" Willimina slinks out of the deepening shadows, Timotin on her tail. "are they here? Inside?" Willimina crosses her arms and looks at the blocked doorway. "And if they are, why are we all standing out //here?"

S'ayde reports into the weyr and goes to his own weyr for a change in clothes. Once those are grabbed, he heads for the baths. He knows expediency is important here, but he needs to cool his jets, so to speak, before going back into that situation. His scrubbing is short lived however, for he knows Willa will want him back as soon as he can get back. Good thing the grounds were just a hop skip and a jump from here.

That hand doesn't get to travel quite as far as Rhimell would like, as the girl stands up immediately at the request. He is however, very patient. He can wait.

The look Moanna gives Igraine is a grateful one, and suddenly she relaxes with the order given. She sets the kettle on the fire and it is only after Igraine steps outside that Moanna moves to the cabinet to retrieve the ''Tea''. Except for the cabinet she goes to isn't the one that stores the tea. She selects earthenware cups, the cheap kind that can be broken easily and just as easily replaced in the Bazaar. Setting out two teapots, The one is the usual teapot Igraine uses, the second a ceramic one of the same style as the teacups. Easily smashed, easily replaced. It doesn't take long for her to find the vial she needs, pouring it over the tea leaves of the disposable teapot before filling both with water.

Onari's words to her come back unbidden, about stooping to their level. If anything, tonight proves that she can never truly be free of them. She pours the tea a porcelain smile forming on her lips as she brings the cups back setting one before each of the Imani leaders. The poisoned kettle is left behind on the counter, the Vial left beside it as a warning to Igraine. Igraine's usual teapot is what is set on the table, as Moanna goes through the motions of pouring cups of the non-poisoned tea for Igraine, herself and anyone else who might be joining the little summit.

"Really look at you, preparing tea for these people, It does seem to suit you Moanna." Annadine lifts her cup heedlessly, draining it completely regardless of the heat.

Rhimell is more subdued, tipping some of the contents of a flask into the cup before he too drinks.

A smile blooms slow and poisonous on Moanna's lips. "I am where I was meant to be, on that mother we couldn't agree more wholeheartedly. It really is a shame, I had hoped to see great aunt, Imara. " Moanna notes, "She would love Willamina, I think."

Annadine snorts, "That cow." Of her Aunt. "Is best suited to her place as the Troupe's Leader. She isn't suited to matters of political importance."

Moanna only smiles. In a matter of several hours, Imara, like so many others would be restored to her rightful place.

Outside the Yurt

Caliban shifts his weight anxiously under the Zingari leader's attention and looks at Iggy Igraine with a worried expression that seems utterly out of place on the Zingari dancer. "One of those blasted bronzes of Moanna's made me follow him back to her wagon, and wouldn't stop screeching until I brought this back." His voice is low and intense. The veil is pulled back to reveal the deadly creature inside, and it hisses at the sudden change in light. "And - I found these with it." He produces the Vials from his pocket, with a worried look. "You don't think… " He trails off.

Igraine shakes her head, "If the vials were in her wagon still, probably not Caliban." Igraine takes the vials and stows them in her pocket. "Get rid of that thing, and be careful, one bite and you'll be in a world of trouble." Igraine turns on her heel and sweeps back into the wagon, though her suspicions are up. SHe immediately spots the out of place tea pot and after muttering an apology, stealthily stows the pot and half empty vial away in one of her cabinets.

Willa follows in behind Igraine, Timotin following her like a shadow. She takes her place at the head of Igraine's table, Griggs bowing deeply before stepping outside to resume guard duty there. Timotin sits to Willimina's right and the spot to her left remains empty, Igraine taking the next set down, after sending a secretive and pointed look to Moanna.

"Good evening fellow leaders, I am Willimina, leader of the Zingari mother clan, Granddaughter to the Elder Ethelinda and great-grandniece of this clan's matriarch." Willimina's heritage and genetic line are somewhat famous on pern, her clan being the one that spawned all Zingari. Or so says legend, their history goes back centuries. "This is Timotin, filling in for my second in command and husband, Tallel. He is sorry he cannot be here but other matters require his attentions."

Rhimell stands, "I hope you will forgive me for not having quite as an Illustrious lineage, I married into the Imani, and it is my lovely wife who traces her line back through the Imani to their founding." He grins slowly, the patient smile of a crocodile. "I admit, the escort you sent left quite the impression, I feel I would not be out of bounds in stating that the matter of my step daughter's assault has been satisfied, the culprit punished. " He reaches over to push the fabric of Annadine's dress aside to reveal the newly forming bruises. Pale but there. "If I am not mistaken what remains is the matter of the Canyon. Particularly the sudden increase in distribution of the Deleri herb."

Annadine remains utterly silent as her ''wounds'' are displayed.

At Igraine's look there is an almost imperceptible nod from Moanna and an edged smile from where she stands out of Rhimell and Annadine's line of sight when the Deleri circulation is mentioned.

Willimina smiles. "No forgiveness needed, we all start somewhere." Willimina flicks her chocolate hued gaze over to Annadine, a wayward curl falling into her face. She tucks it back absentmindedly and sighs, her gaze narrowing on the bruises. "Aye, I'd say that matter evened itself out, though I don't necessarily condone or approve of my escort's methods." Willimina clears her throat and looks around the room. "As to the matter of the Deleri herb, my spymaster has promised he will look into it. You must at least give us time to figure out who the culprit is. I'll not have my entire clan penalized for the actions of a few."

Timotin sits, a silent sentry unless asked to be otherwise. Willimina is apt with diplomacy, much more so than he or S'ayde.

Igraine keeps her mouth shut at this point, whatever Moanna has done, it's done. The girl just better hope the results don't land on Igraine's doorstep, or she'll throttle the girl. Igraine folds her hands in her lap and looks up to Moanna. "Are you going to serve the rest of the tea Moanna?" She hates to bring attention to the candidate, but everything must seem normal then, aye?

It is now that S'ayde arrives and takes Griggs' place guarding the inside of the yurt's door. The last thing Willimina needs is political snafus like this getting to the Elders, they already have an Elder spawned spy in their ranks…they don't need anymore trouble.

Moanna had been moving to slip out of the Yurt, but nearly flinches at Igraine's request. Not for its content but because she'd hoped to be forgotten in the background. Still, Igraine didn't oust her, but there was the matter of making sure things were resolved efficiently. She only hoped that Caliban understood what she needed him to do. The smile that forms is a hollow one, close-lipped and tight. "Of course." S'ayde's arrival earns a darkly angry look filled with unspoken questions and accusations. A deep breath in, a deep breath out, and the mask of a performer descends like a falling curtain. The pot on the table, the safe pot is used to fill the cups of the other delegates, and she will even refill her Mother's cup, brows furrowing slightly when the bruises are revealed.

Rhimell's eyes follow the girl, a smirk curling on his lips when attention is drawn. No escaping that easily. he'll let his arm brush her leg as she moves by, the gesture intended to look an accident, for which he will even utter an apology. "Your spymaster. Forgive me if that phrase doesn't quite bear the weight it should. Must is not a word you have the privilege of using here. I am within my rights to demand payment or satisfaction." He smiles, "But I am not - an unreasonable man Leader Willimina, and I have a healthy respect for the - talents of the Zingari. I think we might come to reasonable terms, and My wife already has a suspect in mind, if you would be willing to remand her to our care - I believe the matter could be resolved quite satisfactorily, and I will be happy to leave more quietly than I arrived."

Annadine looks as though her eyes might bulge from her head at Rhimell's request, but a tight squeeze made to look affectionate on her shoulder from the man renders her neutral once more. Obsidian chipped eyes follow the path of her daughter through the room, never moving from her once.

Igraine glowers darkly at Rhimell, she saw that for what it was, you know. But she sips at her tea, none the less, her yurt was just the neutral ground here…

Willimina smiles softly. "Oh I think must is a perfectly good word to use when neither I or Tallel knew of the theft or the distribution until it was too late. T'was not our doing. I must have time to conduct an investigation myself, as I will not just hand over someone willy nilly." Willa steeples her fingers over the table, looking smug. "I'll not have someone framed for something they didn't do. If one of my people ends up being responsible for the theft, then we can talk compensation, but if it is not one of mine, then you must take your grievances to the weyr, other people besides the Zingari attended the event there my good sir, I'll not be held solely responsible for it." Willimina is calm, and cool and collected, much much more so than S'ayde had been.

S'ayde nearly growls as he too catches the touch between Rhimell and Moanna for what it is, but he's caused enough damage here. He takes Moanna's death glare like a champ however, it wasn't his decision to bring her to this meeting, this had been Willimina's idea. When Moanna catches the bruises on her's mother's throat, when next S'ayde makes eye contact with Moanna, he gives her a sorry/not sorry look and shrugs his shoulders.

Rhimell only smiles, immune to dark glares and almost growls. Like a shark whose scented blood, his focus is solely on the hunt. "If you will pardon my saying so," Rhimell draws as he drains the cup again, motioning once more to Moanna for a refill. "The Zingari have enough to deal with quieting the unrest that grows within their own ranks. Even at the edges of the Igen desert, our contacts have heard tales of sister clans withdrawing from the banner of the Mother Clan."

He smiles as Moanna refills his cup, "If I cannot appeal to your sense of justice, perhaps a Trade is acceptable? The girl, in exchange for a tithe of sorts - goods from the Imani valley. Your guard there can attest to the value of the Deleri, Ten marks for a single pouch of the herb." Rhimell's smile reveals all of his teeth. "And though we would have to discuss it with Elder Imara first, even she would see the benefit of adding the Imani banner to the Zingari. We do not range beyond the desert, but we know her secrets better than most. Our clan is small, but not so dissimilar that such an alliance would be unwelcome."

Annadine's eyes bulge at the offer. "Surely my love, you can't be serious. Our profits are damaged but not be-" Rhimell's grip tightening on her shoulder painfully stops her immediately. "What I mean to say is that it wouldn't hurt to give them the time to resolve the issue?"

Rhimell's expression darkens as he regards his wife, and she sputters into silence under the look. He drains the cup again and this time, as Moanna goes to refill it he reaches out to ensnare her wrist gently, but firm. "I've yet to hear you utter one word in your defense, surely you do not intend to put all of these good people through more of a struggle on your account, especially after they have been so kind as to take you in."

This time, however, Rhimell's hand closes on empty air - the one act of defiance Moanna has allowed herself since the ordeal began. She glances furtively at the others gathered, this needed to end quickly. If the poison took its effects before they were back in Imani territory everything would land in Willimina's lap.

The curtsey she gives is flawless, and would put a court lady to shame as she addresses Willa, "There is a saying in the clan of my birth, The desert will reveal the truth to those who will be still long enough to listen." She watches Rhimell's smile twist. Her gaze shifting from Willimina to Igraine, resting at last on S'ayde. Would they trust her, as she had put her faith in them?

"I am responsible for the dispersal of the Deliri herb, the Event had been my idea. I knew of the risks involved, and had hoped that the precautions I had set out were enough." She draws a breath steeling her spine, "I would not have my actions fall upon the Zingari people, to reward your generosity thus would be unthinkable."

Rhimell allows himself to take in the expressions of the others in the room. Annadine looks uneasy. Something is not right here, and she knows it.

Moanna's attention rests squarely on S'ayde, hoping that he will not act. "However I have a duty to the weyr as well, one which must take precedent for the moment. When that obligation is seen to its end, I will remand myself to the Imani for them to dispense Justice as they see fit." She allows herself a shy smile, after all even a lowly pawn can check a king, she just hoped the other pieces recognized the pattern. "For as long as the Current leader of the Imani wills it. The offer is a good one Leader Willimina, Elder Imara will see its value." Imara, her grandfather's sister, and Moanna's former instructor in the art of dancing. Willa had probably heard the name a thousand times during practices.

Well, at least the information Rhimell is getting is false, there was anger amongst the sister clans, but no withdrawals from the Zingari. Not one. One thing helping Willimina keep at least a semblance of control over the clans was her Grandmother Ethel's iron clad grip as an Elder, and as Sr. Matriarch of the mother clan, as she was a full hour elder than her twin sister Theodosia. Ethelinda was a dragon in her own right.

Feeling the need to let Rhimell know just how false his information is, Willimina laughs, the sound cold, clear, yet highly amused. "Your informants are poorly trained Imani man." Willimina continues to chuckle, glancing over at Timotin, who smiles back at her. A big toothy grin. "It may be true there is some unrest in my court, but I come to this table with the full force of the Zingari clans at my back. They may not like what I do sir, but they will die for me if I ask it." Willimina's eyes become crystal clear, glittering burned mocha, cold and calculating.

She also sees room for profit here, despite the fact that she'll never allow the Imani to take Moanna anywhere.

Moanna is Zingari. Like Ohana means Family, so too does the word Zingari. Willimina may not be a traditionalist, but in her heart, the Zingari had adopted Moanna in full. There was not one amongst them that would speak a foul word about Moanna, not one amongst them that would not come to her defense.

S'ayde looks at Moanna, He isn't going to do anything. Nope. Willimina is in her element. He won't disturb that.

Igraine is much the same, though she stands, grabbing the pot from Moanna and pulling her to help as Willimina begins to speak. Moanna's said her piece, let the leaders do the talking now.

"I'm never one to turn down a trade opportunity, though I don't know that Imani pigments hold a candle to those of the Zingari…" Willimina points to her own, rich, colorful attire. "Though I must applaud you, you do make beautiful pigments. However, I have access to an oldtimer Harper, quite the artist he is. He makes the most beautiful pigments I have ever seen. He taught our own how to mix such rich beautiful colors. We're I to agree to an alliance, I might be persuaded to get you in touch with said Harper."

Willimina leans back. "However, I have a few adjustments to the offered arrangement." Willimina crosses her hands in her lap, her back straight, wild curls framing her face and making her look like something…exotic. Big lashes blink in Rhimell's direction subtly flirting without doing so, it's a good negotiation tactic, and she hopes she's reading the chauvinist pig in him correctly. "We strike up an alliance, add the Imani flag to our banners, and trade opens up between our people. We have no interest in trade of the Deleri herb. You may strike up a trade agreement with our two main healers, Tallel or Igraine, if you like, but I would not like my people to have free access to this drug… I deal in whiskey, sins of the flesh and entertainment and cloth, not drugs. There are a few other things we deal into that would make for profitable trade between our clans. Claiming an alliance and trade with the Zingari brings with it a hefty backing, valuable enough to erase any debt my people have with you. Which comes to the Terms of Moanna's restitutions…"

Willa sips her tea and clears her throat. " Moanna will give restitution for her missteps after her duty to the weyr is fulfilled. Unless she impresses on those sands, then she's far beyond the reach of the likes of us. If she does not impress, then she will return here to my camp and continue her duties here, however, she will send you a semi-annual tithe until the price of the loss is covered. "

"Additionally, as a term of the alliance, there shall be no more physical violence between our people. None. And you shall take out no physical violence against Moanna as punishment. A fine is the only acceptable term here. Plus, all your men and women would have access to some of the finest whores on Pern when in the Igen area or on the trade routes, I hear they are fantastic, never tried one myself."

How much Moanna loved the Zingari Leader at that moment, there would never be enough words to describe, but the poison is a ticking time bomb. She allows Igraine to lead her away, staring at the healer as though Igraine could somehow fix all of this. She was going to murder Caliban for being such a bumbling oaf when all was said and done.

"Which denies me the thing which I most desire out of this deal. The girl, I have been informed has particular talents." Rhimell notes with a finger tap and irritation as Igraine draws his prey away. "A Turn or two of her instruction after her time among the Zingari would bolster our own performers skills considerably. I have no wish to damage her." He shakes his head a smirk of appreciation for the Zingari leader's moxie. "The Deliri is not quite so dangerous as Fellis when diluted properly, but I can understand the hesitation." Sins of the flesh appeal to Rhimell, but he isn't getting the thing he came here for and that frustrates him.

"It is a most Generous offer." Annadine murmurs before his grip on her silences her once more. Which might explain Moanna's confusion earlier, Rhimell was not known for showing off his handiwork.

Igraine Takes Moanna behind a tall standing cabinet, out of sight where it abuts snugly to the wall. She shoves her quietly out a side flap of the tent. Popping her head out, Igraine hisses instructions to Moanna. "While I work on getting them out of here, you go find Caliban and get to Willimina's wagon and wait inside, I'm sure she'll want a word before you report back to the weyr for the night! Now go!" Igraine slips back inside and begins making tea preparation noises, loud-ish ones. Hurry up Willa!

Willimina sighs, her features taking on a feigned look of disappointment. "Well, that really is a shame, because thats a deal breaker for us, you're not getting her, she's Zingari, and a candidate for the clutch on Igen's sands." She stands. "You came seeking 'justice' and restitution for profit lost, I am offering both, in generous amounts mind you. Much more than it would actually take to pay for your losses. And you get the prestige of the Zingari name behind your own. If you cannot take our deal, then I suppose I shall have to ask you to leave my territory and we shall have our elders communicate and settle the matter, aye? Besides, I have girls with talents that supercede Moanna's in that department, they are trained to do such. I would more than willingly send one to instruct your own dancers."

Timotin stands to join Willimina, Igraine comes from around the corner though she acts for all the world like Moanna is still preparing tea, glancing back to 'check' on her once in awhile.

S'ayde stands at attention, and Griggs joins him, Willimina has a force of strength behind her here, and a band of spies throughout the caravan who would come in an instant if anything were to go down.

Moanna nods quietly, "I'm sorry." She manages in a whisper, before setting off to find Caliban.

And what had Caliban been doing all this time? Disposing of and having a conversation with a dead tunnelsnake of course. Moanna finds him sitting on the steps to Willimina’s wagon and he gives her a rueful look. “This bit of me being your errand boy to fetch deadly exotic creatures is seriously going to put a damper on our relationship.”

Back in the tent, Rhimell is the picture of calm, though internally he wants to thrash about like a two year old throwing a tantrum. Reason wins out, “It is not the arrangement I would have wanted, but if you are willing to lend a superior dancer to assist our troupe’s leader in training I suppose there is no logical reason for me to decline.” He will remember this however, and bide his time.

Annadine too nods her agreement looking a little too relieved that the consent has been given. “Truly the Zingari are quite generous.”

"Well then, I'll have the contracts drawn up and send them to Elder Ethelinda for approval and then she will send them to yours." Willimina gives a shallow bow, her eyes never leaving Rhimell's. "I look forward to future business with the Imani. I bid you farewell." Willimina straightens as she speaks and gracefully waves to Griggs at the door. "Griggs will escort you back to the rider we've hired to take you home. Considering the circumstances…" Willimina flicks an irritated glance at S'ayde, "I thought it pertinent that S'ayde not be that escort.

S'ayde steps outside after receiving Willa's ire filled glance, he'd rather guard the outside right now. He's not proud of what he did, he's down right pissed at himself for falling for one of the oldest tricks in the book, and well, he just can't stand sharing space with that vile woman.

Igraine can only sigh with relief as things seem to end well. Thank faranth she'd picked up on the girl's intentions days ago. She thought it had been funny that three drams of a very potent poison had gone missing just shortly after Moanna had been asking about the distillation of poisons. Igraine had known the girl had something on her mind, who knew it was offing her own parents!!! Igraine hadn't known what she was going to do, but something had told her to swap out the drams in her cabinet.

What Rhimell and Annadine had received in their tea was an infusion of deleri and fellis and lavender with mint oil to compliment the lavender. They'd be feeling the effect in little over a candlemark or so, should make for a very interesting ride home, and perhaps a very miserable morning hovering over the chamber pot.

Back at Willimina’s wagon, Moanna waits with Caliban. “Quit whining, you are the one who appointed yourself for the job.”

Caliban Lifts a hand, “No, that was Sessalie’s doing, she insisted I look out for you from the beginning. I swear it’s like having another little sister and you, you are more trouble than Sessalie nine times out of ten. What the hell were you thinking stealing Iggy’s poisons?”

“I was thinking that I was tired of having to have other people protect me Caliban.” Moanna fires back hotly, “I was thinking that the Zingari shouldn’t have to suffer for my problem, and if things had gone according to plan, they’d have been found dead by tunnelsnake bite in the same manner they killed Moab, only I’m smart enough to make sure the actual fucking snake is present.” Moanna sighed, “And then Imara would have to step in to lead and the world would be better off for it.”

Caliban just sighs, “Crackskull, in case you haven’t figured it out yet, you are kind of Family. Sessilie deemed it so, as did Willa when she had you join the Zingari. Taking care of yourself is all well and good, and you should be able to defend yourself, but that doesn't mean that we won’t step up and protect you when you run into trouble.” When the Zingari leader and entourage are spotted in the distance. “I think I’m going to go fetch a bottle or two of whiskey, from the look on Willa’s face everybody is going to need it after this.”

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