Breakfast of Concern

JP with mdman and Cindy

The sickness had come to the Horde, Islana wished they had been able to avoid it, but had known it was unlikely no matter how she had tried.

She herself had been spared, and while the number down only slightly dented the large number of the Horde, the young leader had wanted none of her people to perish like that.

Everyday more bodies were burned, everyday she said prayers for the dead, everyday she secretly wished for the illnesses to pass.

Breakfast and Islana was picking at her food more than eating, the concern etched all over her face. "I think I need to address the Horde." She spoke to Ch’Truta.

Ch’Truta was more concerned with Islana than eating this morning. Another great burden was placed upon her. Worry was upon her face. He knew what was there. Not only had many died, more were ill. Others in the horde were wondering what they had gotten into following this woman into battle. Soon, many may abandon the cause they had work toward achieving.

Taking a slight breath to be a calming presence to her, Ch’Truta asked, “What will you say?”

"I do not know, for certain." She paused, not sure how Ch’Truta would respond to the rest. "I think the Sisters or us, as a collective, need to address them." Islana could see no way out of it, she couldn't just say nothing but the Sisters would have the correct words.

“I believe if they see your heart, you will win them over,” Ch’Truta said reaching to caress her hand. He then smiled. “It did me.”

He hoped that would cause her to at least smile. Ch’Truta often found laughing relieved stress.

He did fear that if the Sisters spoke, Islana would not gain herself back. She confessed their pull was getting stronger. They would act strong from the reaction of the Horde.

Islana did give a soft smile, to Ch'Truta's words. "I fear the Horde might grow suspicious of me, again." Some never stopped being suspicious of her, but those numbers were growing, she needed to not lose the Horde's faith as a whole.

Islana understood the fear, even if unspoken, that one day the Sisters might just take over completely and she wouldn't be able to return. It was a fear she had herself.

“I can understand that,” Ch’Truta expressed. “An outsider bound to an outsider does cause people to wonder if they are being quietly conquered.”

He took in the realization of the past few days. “Remind them that what we have experienced the last few days can be expected more if we do not push them out. They have attacked the land, bringing pestilence and death.”

"Yes, those will be good reminders for them." Islana agreed, a small smile. "Maybe, I should have you do my speeches from now on." She leaned over and kissed her love. Islana was still concerned but speaking with Ch'Truta had made her feel better.

“I’m afraid I do not have your charisma,” he jested with her playfulness despite being concerned.

“How are the rest of the council holding up?” he probed, hoping her advisors were still strong with her.

"They, fortunately, have avoided the illness. They still seem to stand strong with me." Islana took a breath. "They are true in their faith." It was a good thing, it would be ten times harder to lead if her advisors didn't believe in her.

“I believe you should have them stand with you as you speak,” Ch’Truta suggested, “to show their support.”

The more support the horde can see standing strong with Islana, the more they too will stand strong. They couldn’t really execute those who abandoned the horde, could they. After all, they were volunteering, following the Sister. It would be too much to discipline someone for departing after what they had been through during the last few days.

Islana nodded in agreement. "Yes, I believe that you are correct. I will have them stand with me." She thought for a moment. "I know the majority of the Horde do still want to fight for victory, so the Helians do not take over. So, even if they do not all stand with me, I can appeal to that sense of fighting for Arcadia." She then added. "I cannot stop anyone from leaving, if they truly wish but I feel reminding them what they are fighting for, hopefully, will get more to stay.”

Ch’Truta leaned in to give her a soft kiss upon the lips. He couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to leave Islana’s side. Of course, Ch’Truta realized that thought was biased.

“Though all leave you,” he whispered, “I will be by your side.”

Islana nodded to his words, "Of that, I am certain, Hamia." Using the nickname she had given her, after all he was and always would be her protector, and with her.

"As much as I enjoy spending time alone with you, I must get the advisors here for a meeting, soon." The young leader stated. "We have much to discuss.”

“I know, U’Tani,” Ch’Truta affirmed to the one he loved. He stood, a sincere look upon his face. He sighed, knowing the closer they got to battle, the more she would need to direct her attention to leadership of the horde. Not that she had neglected the horde, but Ch’Truta knew they would have less time alone. He would be her major support though, through it all.

“I shall retrieve them,” he stated.

The meeting with the advisors went as suspected, everyone was concerned with the sickness and deaths, a few members of the Horde had been discussing leaving. The other advisors agreed that a speech from Sister Locust might help. So, it was scheduled for this evening.

After the meeting, when all had gone, Ch’Truta embraced U’Tani, gently holding her head to his shoulder. “We shall overcome this,” he promised.

Islana took a deep breath, "You make me believe that, even when I doubt everything." She lifted her head, I must prepare for my speech, I need to walk the Horde. Come with me?”