Assuaging Concerns

Desdem - Sand Horde
JP with Omni and Cindy

Sister Locust listened to the words of the town leaders. "The Horde will be moving on in the next few days, that should ease some of your burdens." She paused. "However, I would like to offer you something for the hospitality the town has shown us. After the war is over I can offer more, but is there anything that would help at the moment?" Islana didn't really know what they could offer, mostly because she hadn't expected this to brought up at this time.

Taneus, the patriarch, nodded thoughtfully at Sister Locust's words, acknowledging the gesture of goodwill. "We appreciate your consideration, Sister Locust," he began, his tone respectful yet firm. "Your assurance that the Horde will soon move on does alleviate some of our immediate concerns. We already have good trade between the Holy City and the Septs of the Great Desert.

Perhaps we can expand this trade with the people of Fang, or even what remains of the fractured plains. Such talk is perhaps futile at the moment. Our ancestors spoke of times when the balance would be tested, of trials that would herald great change. And the end of times...

We shall see how this conflict unfolds, and when it subsides, we must have a reprisal of this conversation. For now, we can ask only that the Sand Horde leave Desdem as they found it. Forgive me, but It is known that... when warriors get bored, they oft cause unnecessary trouble."

Islana gave a nod, "It can be unfortunately true. I will however let it be known that any member of the Horde causing problems in Desdem or to its people will have to answer to me." A not so subtle way of saying a punishment would be forthcoming for those who broke the rule. "I do not bring the Horde here to cause problems for your village."

The patriarch seemed satisfied with Sister Locust’s response and thanked her in turn. Despite underlying concerns, the dinner continued with conversations shifting to lighter topics, fostering unity among the attendees. The Elders and Raud discussed potential collaborations and ways to mitigate conflict impacts if his people should decide to stay in the winter pastures for good. The evening concluded with a renewed commitment to peace and cooperation, leaving a sense of cautious optimism lingering in the air. One of the guests remained longer than the others. He had seen the looks from Sister Locust and sensed her intent to have a discussion with him.