Dinner With The Elders

Desdem - Sand Horde

An emissary had been sent to invite the elders of Desdem to have dinner with Islana, Sister Locust in a tent prepared for honored guests.

The evening air, cooling and fresh after the day’s heat, carried with it the scents of cooking fires and aromatic spices, a feast being prepared for honor of distinguished guests.

At the appointed hour, a small procession of five people made its way toward the tent. Their attire brightly colored and befitting the harsh landscape that bordered their lands. All but one, a young boy of 10 or 11 wore simple brown clothes, his eyes bright with the wisdom of one far beyond his years.

Leading the group was an elder figure of commanding presence, his posture one of quiet authority. Beside him walked a woman whose gaze swept over the encampment with keen interest, the folds of her robe catching the very last light of day.

Close beside, another woman of the delegation carried herself with the assuredness of someone intimately acquainted with the rhythms of nature, her hands marked by the toils of her craft.

Bringing up the rear was a warrior of sorts, his stance speaking of strength and vigilance. The tools of his trade were primitive but carried with a pride that spoke of skill and prowess.

As they approached, the Ozainae guards stationed at the entrance of the dining tent stepped aside, a gesture of respect and recognition. The flickering torchlight cast dancing shadows over the faces of the elders, highlighting the lines of experience etched into their features and the quiet confidence that marked them as leaders of their people.

The air within the tent was warm, the interior illuminated by softly glowing lamps that cast a welcoming glow over the rugs seating area.