Long Lost Leaves

[Aikanáro]

Tabrîl gave Haldis an uncertain look. Was this what passed for humor, among her people, to offer insult with a smile? Tabrîl did not understand it, nor did she see why Haldis thought Abasi might desire her company. She did not mistake the easing of a threat for friendship. 'You must not insult him,' she said carefully. 'He does not speak lightly, to say he cannot let it pass again. And nor can I, for if you offend him you insult me also.' This last statement was perhaps debatable, for a m'had without a tribe was not, in the strictest sense, her brother. But he was the closest here to her own kindred, and as such she would defend him.

Perhaps Abasi would not appreciate her reiteration of his words, she thought then, but it could not be helped. 'I will stay for now,' she told Haldis, 'but only as long as I find it useful.'

She turned to Abasi then, switched effortlessly into their own language. 'Forgive my presumption. She does not understand.' Although Abasi should have known that, if he travelled with those who were uwindon as a matter of habit. 'You have been with them long?' she asked, a seemingly casual query.