U'Tani and Hamia

JP with mdman and Cindy

Islana arose before the sun, and went outside the tent, Kaithak on her arm. She had little recollection of what had occurred the night before, but knew the Sisters had taken over. It was a disturbing thought, and something that she hoped to not repeat today.

The sounds of others starting to ready for the hunt could be heard. Things being packed, breakfasts eaten, weapons readied. She didn't need to see this, as it didn't change from culture to culture. It was a almost ritualistic, in a way.

Still, their was a smell of food cooking that made its way towards Islana’s sense causing her stomach to grumble slightly. Spotting an errand boy, she asked him to send a message for breakfast to be served as soon as possible, at her tent. She would give Ch’Truta five minutes before waking him.

Ch’Truta awoke from the cold chill of the morning air. Overnight, he had grown accustomed to the warmth of Islana lying in his arms. Now, the warmth was gone. The realization had suddenly hit his brain causing Ch’Truta to jump straight up into a seated position.

He glanced about her tent. Kaithak was also gone, so Islana was safe. There were no warning calls from the falcon. Ch’Truta was confident the bird would have awaken him had Islana been in danger.

He took the time to freshen himself at a water basin. He soon was drying off his face. It was time to set off to find Islana. Ch’Truta was sure she was preparing for the hunt, so he gathered his spear and dagger, then searched for his love.

Islana turned as soon as she heard Ch'Truta leave the tent, as she was standing right outside. Giving him a tired but loving smile. "Good morning. Breakfast should arrive shortly."

As predicted it did arrive and was placed upon a blanket which Islana had laid out. "Come sit, let us eat." She was acting as Islana always did caring, kind but she didn't want to discuss the events of last night, not right now.

Ch’Truta saw the weariness in her facial features. Concern crossed his own. He hoped that he hadn’t missed another struggle Islana had with the sisters.

He bowed his head, hurting within himself at the battles she had endured. “You are strong, Islana,” he encouraged. “After the hunt, I must meet with someone of the Red Crows. They are knowledgeable of the plants here. It is likely they know of an herb or root that may help you rest.”

Islana sat down, "That is a good idea. I assume you know they cannot know why or for whom the herbs are really for?" Though she already knew the answer.

Her hand reached out, almost touching him, then realizing they were outside it was too easy to be spotted. She instead began eating her food. "Can we not speak about them - The Sisters, for the moment? I would like to just enjoy breakfast with you." Kaithak hadn't left her shoulder, so she offered the bird some meat, who accepted it. "And Kaithak." Islana added.

Ch’Truta looked around to ensure no one was near enough to hear. He spoke in a low voice, in case someone were hiding nearby.

“U’Tani,” Ch’Truta spoke, “that is what I call you when we are alone. It means Bright Eyes, Except for a short time, I enjoyed being with you last night.”

The young leader gave the man a soft smile, "I did enjoy you being with me, last night, as well." She paused. "I love that you call me that - U'Tani. Now, I might need to find a nickname for you. Something." She thought for a moment. "Hamia." She spoke quietly. "It is Ozanine for protector. You do protect me.”

The name humbled Ch’Truta. He enjoyed this moment with her. Every moment he could have alone with Islana, he would seek out.

“As is Kaithak,” Ch’Truta observed. “I think I may have earned his trust. He perched upon my shoulder for a while last night.”

That made Islana’s smile grow, "Kaithak has always been a good judge of character, and yes he is my protector as well." She paused, changing the subject. "We should finish eating. We will be meeting with the other hunters soon.”

Ch’Truta ate a hardy breakfast. They would need to have much strength and energy for the hunt.

“Is there anything else you may need for the hunt,” he asked as he stood after the meal. “Will you be using a bow?”

"Yes, I have my bow and arrows. We should get easy to carry provisions, and start with full waterskins." Islana thought for a moment. "That is all we should need." She stood..

The two were done with breakfast so The Leader had some servants begin to clean-up. She then turned back to Ch'Truta. "I do need to get changed. It won't take long, five minutes?”