Breaking bread

Rarak Oasis

This was without a doubt the largest oasis Islanahad seen outside of Gra'akast. A sea of red and yellow tents extended as far as she could see, together with palm groves stretching for several miles.

Rarar is noted for its dates, most of which it exports across the Great Desert of Skulls. It has tanning and handicraft industries, and its animal flocks were some of the largest outside of the Odsier. Although never having been here before, the young woman knew this immediately.

The air around the oasis was different from anywhere else. The smell of small springs and irrigated land, of people and animals living in close proximity. The scent of freshly roasted spices floated in the small spaces between dwellings and stalls.

The great oasis of Rarak water sources was water from deep underground reservoirs supplied through sandstone aquifers that sustained life and used to maintain their main sources of food like, peaches, apricots, vegetables, and cereals such as wheat, barley, and millet.

Islana sat in the Spets leader's tents, flanked by the man and his wife, taking centre stage around the the large rug in the centre of the room. Around her were some of the more important families in the Sept. Servants moved being everyone carrying jugs of water and fermented wine, as well as steaming trays of food and bread. that were set in front of everyone. Eating, among the Ozainae was a communal experience, with shared platters and dishes, like eating among family.

Despite the apparent welcoming to the Oasis and the feast on front of her something seemed off to Islana. She could see it in the eyes and glances of many of those assembled that they were not that happy with her presence. Some of those looking at her did so with open hostility.

The support of this Sept was crucial for the next part of the journey.and the coming war...