Nessus led Jadmai through the curvy, circular streets easily. He explained how the city roads were designed with three spirals, one beneath each dome with a main thoroughfare bisecting the city and another thoroughfare connecting the city to the harbor. He showed Jadmai the signpost designating the official sections of the city they passed. Each signpost was merely a picture that, if you could make it out, easily told a patron what type of business was conducted in each area. Jadmai and Nessus passed by the moneylender road and the tailor’s road before turning into a deeper curve of the main spiral. Here, Nessus said, was where foreign business was conducted. They were near the main thoroughfare leading passed the merchant district and into the Great Market. The group of buildings Nessus led Jadmai toward was poor but obviously provided quick access to the rest of the city.
The city’s people were an odd mix. In the dust of the desert port, it was difficult to tell where a citizen might fall in the social strata. Dust made everything and everyone, rich and poor, the same muted brown Jadmai knew from Amun Rah. The streets though, were busy, even under the shade of the great domes. Milling about the heat was never anyone’s first choice of activity but there was business to conduct. The real excitement, Nessus explained, began as night arrived and temperatures cooled.
Finally, they arrived at a three story, white washed building with grey shuttered windows that appeared to lean heavily into the street. A small banner of Amun Rah swayed noiselessly above a green painted door. Nessus pushed open the door and led the dark adhiel into a sitting room furnished a small table and two chairs which sat on a fraying rug. Jadmai could see the weatherworn timbers supporting the room through a fading yellow paint. It smelled of must and the tang of the sea. It wasn’t fancy but Jadmai would be able to conduct his affairs easily enough.
As they entered, one of the scribes who’d accompanied the ambassador appeared from a stairway near the back of the building.
“Ah, Excellency, you’ve arrived. How fortunate. There are offices near the back for us to conduct our business. Unfortunately, there are only quarters for one of us on the second floor. The others have taken lodging elsewhere. Your room has been prepared on the third floor. Hopefully, you will find it appealing.” The scribe turned and bowed toward Nessus in an obvious dismissal.
“Do you need my assistance, Excellency?”
*************************************************************
Jadmai gave the most imperceptible of nods to the slave that brought him here, it was a dismissal, and also the most meager of thanks, most of which he would probably get that day.
Jadmai then turned to his assistant and gave an earnest smile, "Actually, I have great many tasks for you perform, my goodman--hmm, I don't think we were properly introduced--" Jadmai let small pause bath the room as he waited for a name." ...Well, firstly, a most excellent job to you and your team. This is a true sign of Amun Rah work ethic. Marks ago this building was baron, and knows it houses the activities of Amun Rah on distant soil."
"I have a few nitpicks- all cosmetic things, but important nonetheless: Firstly, the banner out front, we will be needing a new one of those, one so illustrious by the banner alone people will know this is the Amun Rah embassy. Secondly, the first furnishing, this dilapitated rug, will not do. We come from a nation of fine tapestries. Have someone sent out for a burgandy and gold one. Also get some reasonable skilled painter to paint the inside of the same colors. We'll let our nation's colors be surround us, to remind us what we are doing here--if we should ever slip."
Jadmai took one of the seats in the main foyer, and lit up his pipe, and he made a motion for his assistant to do the same, "Of course, like I have said, the embassy in functional already, and I see no reason not to put it into use."
Jadmai exhaled a thick white cloud into the air and went on, "One of tasks Ionis looked forward to the most was myself having a meeting with the Councilwoman Akankeof the Citadel. Could you draw up a worthy invitation for me to sign."
Jadmai stood back up, "Ah yes, if I could also get some sort of roster on who we have working for us here that would be great, and also as far as accounts, how much money will be spent and to who...whatever you can get me on monetary side of things will be fine."
"Well, now that I have swamped you with work, I have one last request, and that would be to see my chambers."
TI: Amun Rah Embassy: Jadmai begins 29th LMT
Moderator: Mods
TI: Amun Rah Embassy: Jadmai begins 29th LMT
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
"I am Nkosi, Excellency," the man provided. He was short for a human, roughly of a height with Jadmai, and mostly bald. The ring of hair remaining around his head was black laced with silver, and his beady eyes were a watery blue-grey. Despite his slightness he carried himself with an air of purpose and confidence generally lacking in the adhiel's other aides. "First Secretary to this embassy."
Nkosi took no notes while Jadmai delivered his instructions, and in fact showed no sign of listening at all save for a single, practised blink at the end of each sentence. At the adhiel's invitation, he lowered himself into the wicker chair, and when Jadmai had finished speaking he smiled thinly. "Of course, Excellency," he murmured deferentially. "One might wonder whether making such an exhibition of our affluence might serve primarily to attract the thieves of this lawless city. Nevertheless your logic is, of course, sound. I will dispatch messengers through the portal, with instructions to return with richer furnishings."
Rising, he indicated the stairwell. "If your Excellency would care to follow me...?" He talked as he walked. "You have three main underlings of note. I myself will serve as your personal secretary..." Although he continued in the same level, servile tone, there was the slightest hint of resentment in his voice at this. "I am also responsible for the day-to-day administration of the embassy. Second Secretary Mosegi oversees the embassy's accounts and finances, and will also be at your service should you need advice on economic matters. Finally, Second Secretary Rabiah's duties involve... information." Reaching the top of the stairwell, he withdrew a small bronze key on a chain from his pocket and passed it to Jadmai. "As for the overture to Councilor Akanke, I have already taken the liberty of drafting such a document. When you have finished inspecting your quarters, you may peruse and sign it at your leisure. I shall be downstairs." With as much of a bow as was possible on the narrow, steep stairs, he turned and descended.
The room was large and spacious, and although it was still sparsely furnished someone had clearly made an effort to ensure that the ambassador's rooms were the richest in the building. The brightly striped rug was far thicker and smarter than the one in the foyer, and the low slatted bed was covered with colourful drapes. The ceiling was curved slightly, following the contours of the roof above it. A wicker chair sat by the bed, and at the back of the room was a partially walled-off area for washing. The facilities were meagre by Amunic standards, but did include a copper bathtub, sitting among terracotta basins. A single, broad window at the front of the house provided a view of the houses opposite and the street below.
Nkosi took no notes while Jadmai delivered his instructions, and in fact showed no sign of listening at all save for a single, practised blink at the end of each sentence. At the adhiel's invitation, he lowered himself into the wicker chair, and when Jadmai had finished speaking he smiled thinly. "Of course, Excellency," he murmured deferentially. "One might wonder whether making such an exhibition of our affluence might serve primarily to attract the thieves of this lawless city. Nevertheless your logic is, of course, sound. I will dispatch messengers through the portal, with instructions to return with richer furnishings."
Rising, he indicated the stairwell. "If your Excellency would care to follow me...?" He talked as he walked. "You have three main underlings of note. I myself will serve as your personal secretary..." Although he continued in the same level, servile tone, there was the slightest hint of resentment in his voice at this. "I am also responsible for the day-to-day administration of the embassy. Second Secretary Mosegi oversees the embassy's accounts and finances, and will also be at your service should you need advice on economic matters. Finally, Second Secretary Rabiah's duties involve... information." Reaching the top of the stairwell, he withdrew a small bronze key on a chain from his pocket and passed it to Jadmai. "As for the overture to Councilor Akanke, I have already taken the liberty of drafting such a document. When you have finished inspecting your quarters, you may peruse and sign it at your leisure. I shall be downstairs." With as much of a bow as was possible on the narrow, steep stairs, he turned and descended.
The room was large and spacious, and although it was still sparsely furnished someone had clearly made an effort to ensure that the ambassador's rooms were the richest in the building. The brightly striped rug was far thicker and smarter than the one in the foyer, and the low slatted bed was covered with colourful drapes. The ceiling was curved slightly, following the contours of the roof above it. A wicker chair sat by the bed, and at the back of the room was a partially walled-off area for washing. The facilities were meagre by Amunic standards, but did include a copper bathtub, sitting among terracotta basins. A single, broad window at the front of the house provided a view of the houses opposite and the street below.
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Jadmai smiled reluctantly at Nkosi as he metioned attracting the lawless, however it was a smile nonetheless, and he was hiding the real reason behind it. It was smile a person gives when things get out of hand. However, Jadmai's smile was one of someone was secretly of someone slipping into his plans.
Ionis spoke the truth, these men do not know why we are here. With some faction starting fires in the warehouse district to Amunic goods, I am going to need men to find out what that ordeal is about, and when that mystery is solved I am going to need those who can strike against the lawless. I am going to need soliders.
Jadmai nodded curtly to Nkosi, "You are of course right, Nkosi. Extragances will draw sticky fingered thieves, or worse more violent criminal types. When you send for the things I have asked for, it would prudent to send for a few men-at-arms. Not only to protect our new wares, but this place shall be an asluym for citizens of Amun Rah from the more savage goverment of this land--and even citizens of...vaule. It's a side of an embassy I think we have all overlooked, whoever you send, have them ask, on my behalf, for ten to tweleve of Ionis's better soliders'."
Standing up he offered his hand to Nkosi, "And forgive me for not knowing your name, Nkosi, things happened in such a hurry, I think you understand that it doesn't mean I overlooked you. In fact, you shall take the room on the second floor. I should like the first secretary near me at all times, to help me run this place." The dark adhiel then gave the man a genuine smile.
"Mr. Nkosi, I hope I have not overwhelmed you, so I will leave you to your work, with just one small task: I am going to my quarters to sign that document, and if you could send our...informational specialist up to my quarters, I would be most grateful."
Jadmai, then gave the man the slightest of bows in dismissal, and turned to this quarters.
The ambassador then skimmed over the invitation, and if everything was in order, he would sign his name at the bottom: Jadmai Av'Zathrak.
Ionis spoke the truth, these men do not know why we are here. With some faction starting fires in the warehouse district to Amunic goods, I am going to need men to find out what that ordeal is about, and when that mystery is solved I am going to need those who can strike against the lawless. I am going to need soliders.
Jadmai nodded curtly to Nkosi, "You are of course right, Nkosi. Extragances will draw sticky fingered thieves, or worse more violent criminal types. When you send for the things I have asked for, it would prudent to send for a few men-at-arms. Not only to protect our new wares, but this place shall be an asluym for citizens of Amun Rah from the more savage goverment of this land--and even citizens of...vaule. It's a side of an embassy I think we have all overlooked, whoever you send, have them ask, on my behalf, for ten to tweleve of Ionis's better soliders'."
Standing up he offered his hand to Nkosi, "And forgive me for not knowing your name, Nkosi, things happened in such a hurry, I think you understand that it doesn't mean I overlooked you. In fact, you shall take the room on the second floor. I should like the first secretary near me at all times, to help me run this place." The dark adhiel then gave the man a genuine smile.
"Mr. Nkosi, I hope I have not overwhelmed you, so I will leave you to your work, with just one small task: I am going to my quarters to sign that document, and if you could send our...informational specialist up to my quarters, I would be most grateful."
Jadmai, then gave the man the slightest of bows in dismissal, and turned to this quarters.
The ambassador then skimmed over the invitation, and if everything was in order, he would sign his name at the bottom: Jadmai Av'Zathrak.
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
"It was my intention, Excellency," Nkosi quickly replied before leaving. "I have already occupied the room below, as is fitting for your highest ranking subordinate. I shall send for Rabiah." Handing Jadmai the document and bowing awkwardly, he scurried away down the stairs.
Although perhaps a little heavy on the formalities, the content of the letter was fundamentally sound.
On a light table by the window stood a small pot of ink and a rather ragged quill, as well as a few blank rolls of parchment.
It was not long before a knock sounded on the light door at the top of the stairs. Waiting outside was a tall, statuesque woman approaching the middle years of her life. She had long, straight black hair and prominent cheekbones. Her tall form was slim and bony, with broad shoulders. She wore a large, loose sackcloth robe, unadorned but for a pair of silver pendants on cords around her neck. "I am Rabiah, Your Excellency," she announced. "You wished to speak with me?"
Although perhaps a little heavy on the formalities, the content of the letter was fundamentally sound.
A scribe's neat hand wrote:Esteemed Councilwoman Akanke,
His Excellency Jadmai av'Zathrak, newly appointed Ambassador of Amun Rah to Sabata, seeks to acquaint himself with the current social and political climate of the city. To this end he requests an audience with Third Councilor Akanke in order to discuss matters of common interest.
His Excellency looks forward to laying the foundations of what will hopefully be a fruitful co-operation between our offices, and asks that you suggest a time and a place that is most convenient and favourable to you. He humbly awaits your response.
I remain, Madam,
yours very respectfully,
Jadmai av'Zathrak
His Majesty Rafao Ionis's Own Ambassador to Sabata
On a light table by the window stood a small pot of ink and a rather ragged quill, as well as a few blank rolls of parchment.
It was not long before a knock sounded on the light door at the top of the stairs. Waiting outside was a tall, statuesque woman approaching the middle years of her life. She had long, straight black hair and prominent cheekbones. Her tall form was slim and bony, with broad shoulders. She wore a large, loose sackcloth robe, unadorned but for a pair of silver pendants on cords around her neck. "I am Rabiah, Your Excellency," she announced. "You wished to speak with me?"
Last edited by Morg on Mon Nov 13, 2006 10:23 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Jadmai sat down in the large wicker chair that was provided and waved for the woman to come in, "Mistress Rabiah..." Jadmai said letting the name flick off his tounge. Sitting in the chair he put his hands together and started to tap his index fingers together.
If asked what he was doing he would simply say he was gathering his
thoughts, but instead in his mind he was repeating the name of the woman over and over again as if something of her name would give something away about her character. The entire time he looked right throught the woman. He almost laughed at himself, he supposed that this was perhaps how some of those who claimed to see auras did so--Jadmai was skeptical, he rathered decided that unless the woman gave off some kind of light now he would lock the idea away as rubbish...until he met a reader and he was forced to eat crow.
"Mistress Rabiah, it has come to my attention that I may be able to trust
you with certain information. Certain information that would find no one
elses ear's, and that you would look at objectively as your job. In other
words, whatever I say, and whae4ver you find out is only reported to me or his highness himself if so orders."
Jadmai would wait for some sort of objection rather than acknowledgement before he continued.
"Already in our short time in the city I have come across two figures that
interest me, perhaps a third, but we will discuss them at a later time.
These two figures have something in common, that I am quite interested
in--for now you need not know why, though it may be revealed to you in investigation. Do not worry yourself with it being dangerous, I would not lead into harm's way, as long as your are prudent in your ways, as I am sure you are, you should have no worries concerning safety."
Jadmai sat a little more upright, and reached for his pipe which he lit quickly and began to speak with tendrils of spoke escaping his mouth, "Two figures...at least: tied to one object. It's a vessel, by the name of Harlequinn's Ghost. I'm interested in every detail. All I know right now is it orginated from the Citadel and was bound for Amun Rah, when it stopped for port here. Then, as far as I hear, the damn thing just disappeared. Now, I've heard there was no cargo, which leads me to believe the ship was carry slaves who had yet to find owners, as I have heard no one either isle very upset that this ship didn't arrive. My conclusion is then, no one was really waiting for it."
Jadmai tapped his pipe and looked back up at Rabiah, "At lest no willing to put their name out there. Someone who is...far too important." The name did not need to be said.
"The first figure of intrest, and most likely the easiest to find information on goes by the name of Zhanna. I ran into a man who said that she could answer questions about our vessel in question that he couldn't (this man being the one I mentioned earlier). I don't want to know just what she knows about the vessel, but about her as well. Her secrets, her hobbies, where she lives, the ammount of salt she puts into her porridge. I want to know it all, where she came from, and what got her involved with the Harlequinn's Ghost.
"The second figure might be a little trickier. He seems to have a corrupted grip on the streets, and goes by the name of Harbeki. I believe he is the head of a policing force here in Sabata, but that would be a loose organization, but understand this is hearsay so this information is soft at best. The man told me that the true secrets of the Harlequinn's Ghost are to be found with him. Thus, I want everything I ordered to be found out on Zhanna, to be considered topical to what you find out about him. I do not know your level of skill yet, but I worry that will take some time, and I want results quickly. Check in with me, with any major finds, and at the start of Gravetide no matter what progress you have completed."
The ambassador stood up and took a few steps closer to Rabiah, and stood quietly, pushing his bangs behind his ears and exhaling slowly. His gaze fell to the floor for a bit as he went over what he just said in his own head in quiet contemplation. He now realized it he made it obvious to the spymaster what they were looking for, but she didn't know what importance this person held.
Jadmai raised his head to a tilt and reguarded Rabiah for a brief flicker, taking in her face, he then suddenly spoke, "You have seen the Rafao before...or at least know his likeness?"
Because our biggest advantage is that she something she can't hide: a visage resembling royalty.
If asked what he was doing he would simply say he was gathering his
thoughts, but instead in his mind he was repeating the name of the woman over and over again as if something of her name would give something away about her character. The entire time he looked right throught the woman. He almost laughed at himself, he supposed that this was perhaps how some of those who claimed to see auras did so--Jadmai was skeptical, he rathered decided that unless the woman gave off some kind of light now he would lock the idea away as rubbish...until he met a reader and he was forced to eat crow.
"Mistress Rabiah, it has come to my attention that I may be able to trust
you with certain information. Certain information that would find no one
elses ear's, and that you would look at objectively as your job. In other
words, whatever I say, and whae4ver you find out is only reported to me or his highness himself if so orders."
Jadmai would wait for some sort of objection rather than acknowledgement before he continued.
"Already in our short time in the city I have come across two figures that
interest me, perhaps a third, but we will discuss them at a later time.
These two figures have something in common, that I am quite interested
in--for now you need not know why, though it may be revealed to you in investigation. Do not worry yourself with it being dangerous, I would not lead into harm's way, as long as your are prudent in your ways, as I am sure you are, you should have no worries concerning safety."
Jadmai sat a little more upright, and reached for his pipe which he lit quickly and began to speak with tendrils of spoke escaping his mouth, "Two figures...at least: tied to one object. It's a vessel, by the name of Harlequinn's Ghost. I'm interested in every detail. All I know right now is it orginated from the Citadel and was bound for Amun Rah, when it stopped for port here. Then, as far as I hear, the damn thing just disappeared. Now, I've heard there was no cargo, which leads me to believe the ship was carry slaves who had yet to find owners, as I have heard no one either isle very upset that this ship didn't arrive. My conclusion is then, no one was really waiting for it."
Jadmai tapped his pipe and looked back up at Rabiah, "At lest no willing to put their name out there. Someone who is...far too important." The name did not need to be said.
"The first figure of intrest, and most likely the easiest to find information on goes by the name of Zhanna. I ran into a man who said that she could answer questions about our vessel in question that he couldn't (this man being the one I mentioned earlier). I don't want to know just what she knows about the vessel, but about her as well. Her secrets, her hobbies, where she lives, the ammount of salt she puts into her porridge. I want to know it all, where she came from, and what got her involved with the Harlequinn's Ghost.
"The second figure might be a little trickier. He seems to have a corrupted grip on the streets, and goes by the name of Harbeki. I believe he is the head of a policing force here in Sabata, but that would be a loose organization, but understand this is hearsay so this information is soft at best. The man told me that the true secrets of the Harlequinn's Ghost are to be found with him. Thus, I want everything I ordered to be found out on Zhanna, to be considered topical to what you find out about him. I do not know your level of skill yet, but I worry that will take some time, and I want results quickly. Check in with me, with any major finds, and at the start of Gravetide no matter what progress you have completed."
The ambassador stood up and took a few steps closer to Rabiah, and stood quietly, pushing his bangs behind his ears and exhaling slowly. His gaze fell to the floor for a bit as he went over what he just said in his own head in quiet contemplation. He now realized it he made it obvious to the spymaster what they were looking for, but she didn't know what importance this person held.
Jadmai raised his head to a tilt and reguarded Rabiah for a brief flicker, taking in her face, he then suddenly spoke, "You have seen the Rafao before...or at least know his likeness?"
Because our biggest advantage is that she something she can't hide: a visage resembling royalty.
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
Rabiah tilted her head to one side as she listened. As expected, she did not waste any energy confirming Jadmai's words on secrecy. The woman was a professional spymistress. Asking her to keep his confidence was like asking a mountain to stay exactly where it was: a given.
"Zhanna, and Harkhebi," she echoed. "I currently do not know of this Zhanna, but I will find out what I can. As for the other... Harkhebi hardly keeps a low profile." She smiled conspiratorially. "Yes, he's in charge of Sabata's law enforcement, such as it is. He's about as subtle as a brick. Fortunately for him, he has no need for subtlety. He's a blunt instrument, Your Excellency, and one that's thoroughly in Councilor Ramessu's pocket. He provides the Councilor with the physical might he needs to lord it over the streets of Sabata, and when the man's battering-ram tactics have political consequences Ramessu can protect him." She smirked. "Their co-operation is Sabata's worst kept secret."
She brought her hands together. "I will of course seek out further information. I just wouldn't want you to think I'd been idle in the few days we've been here." Her dark eyes held a proud sparkle.
Jadmai's next question caught her a little by surprise. "I have met the mighty Rafao, in the flesh," she responded, evidently confused. "I am his personal slave," she added, with a hint of pride... misplaced pride, perhaps, for the Rafao had hundreds of slaves, many of which had never seen him, or at least only seen him from a distance. "Why do you wish to know this?"
"Zhanna, and Harkhebi," she echoed. "I currently do not know of this Zhanna, but I will find out what I can. As for the other... Harkhebi hardly keeps a low profile." She smiled conspiratorially. "Yes, he's in charge of Sabata's law enforcement, such as it is. He's about as subtle as a brick. Fortunately for him, he has no need for subtlety. He's a blunt instrument, Your Excellency, and one that's thoroughly in Councilor Ramessu's pocket. He provides the Councilor with the physical might he needs to lord it over the streets of Sabata, and when the man's battering-ram tactics have political consequences Ramessu can protect him." She smirked. "Their co-operation is Sabata's worst kept secret."
She brought her hands together. "I will of course seek out further information. I just wouldn't want you to think I'd been idle in the few days we've been here." Her dark eyes held a proud sparkle.
Jadmai's next question caught her a little by surprise. "I have met the mighty Rafao, in the flesh," she responded, evidently confused. "I am his personal slave," she added, with a hint of pride... misplaced pride, perhaps, for the Rafao had hundreds of slaves, many of which had never seen him, or at least only seen him from a distance. "Why do you wish to know this?"
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Before Jadmai dealt with the woman's cofusion he first complimented her, "Most impressive! Most impressive! I am overjoyed that those who have been entrusted to me should take up manners into their own hands. You are most deserving to be a personal slave of the mighty, Ionis. Most deserving."
Jadmai then reguarded the confusion, it pleases him that she did not know why he would ask such a question, for she was a very quick intellect, so for the time being the identity of Ionis' neice as the object of this search was still secret. However, now that Jadmai knew what he was dealing with in Rabiah, he would be far more liberal with the giving of information and confiding in her. In fact, he was taking quite a liking to this particular human. So far, only royals have appealed to him.
"Do not worry about the question of likeness. I'm already growing to trust in your capabilities and so, I will let you know more later."
Jadmai again pulled out his pipe and filled it with the light opiate, one of few things he still had from Gulanadur, and plenty of it. He struck the match slowly, and waited for an even burn before he placed the match gently into the smokeable. A good wood match struck and let to burn a several flickers, persevered only the flavor of what was smoked. These small details added so much to the simple pleasures of life.
Jadmai drew in the light opiate, drew in until his heart had a moment of excitement, and then all slowed down, all rough edges seemed smooth, and life, as Jadmai percieved it, was warm, steady, plodding, and comfortable.
"We must talk more of Harbeki, since you have already acquired a familiarity with him. As you have shown great awareness of current affairs, I am going to assume you know the more public reason we are here is that of trade. Amun Rah is having some trouble in the warehouse district? And our traders receiving great harrassment?" He left the last part of the sentence hanging to see if she followed.
"Our wares being burnt to the ground here in Sabata is an actual concern to my most good friend, his highness, Ionis. So, even though we were sent under the pretence of trade--a cover for our true intentions--our shrewd majesty would like this problem taken care of too.
"I'm about to meet with a man, of very good standing, one the Rafao himself suggest I talk with personally. His name is Taymar, all I know of him is that he is the proprieter of The Crying Dragon, and that he can be delicately prodded for information reguarding our warehouses' destruction. I understand it may turn out that pushing him too hard may scare him, for he probably caters to all business, and strong pressure from me, might literally start a fire."
Jadmai drew in more softly on his pipe and squinted his eyes from the smoke.
"The crux of this issue I may be able to handle politically, however, it gives us another angle on Harbeki. If it is only our wares going up in flames, then Harbeki must be allowing it. This may give the chance we need to see how blunt of an instrument he is; see how flexible he is. How much he will give before he breaks."
Jadmai suddenly felt the weight of his daggers on his waist.
Yes, my loves, I know you are here.
"He will be leaned on hard, and perhaps have too much knowledge of what we are after. Your thoughts on a Sabata without Harbeki?"
"Don't over think that, for right now your priority is...Neus."
Jadmai then reguarded the confusion, it pleases him that she did not know why he would ask such a question, for she was a very quick intellect, so for the time being the identity of Ionis' neice as the object of this search was still secret. However, now that Jadmai knew what he was dealing with in Rabiah, he would be far more liberal with the giving of information and confiding in her. In fact, he was taking quite a liking to this particular human. So far, only royals have appealed to him.
"Do not worry about the question of likeness. I'm already growing to trust in your capabilities and so, I will let you know more later."
Jadmai again pulled out his pipe and filled it with the light opiate, one of few things he still had from Gulanadur, and plenty of it. He struck the match slowly, and waited for an even burn before he placed the match gently into the smokeable. A good wood match struck and let to burn a several flickers, persevered only the flavor of what was smoked. These small details added so much to the simple pleasures of life.
Jadmai drew in the light opiate, drew in until his heart had a moment of excitement, and then all slowed down, all rough edges seemed smooth, and life, as Jadmai percieved it, was warm, steady, plodding, and comfortable.
"We must talk more of Harbeki, since you have already acquired a familiarity with him. As you have shown great awareness of current affairs, I am going to assume you know the more public reason we are here is that of trade. Amun Rah is having some trouble in the warehouse district? And our traders receiving great harrassment?" He left the last part of the sentence hanging to see if she followed.
"Our wares being burnt to the ground here in Sabata is an actual concern to my most good friend, his highness, Ionis. So, even though we were sent under the pretence of trade--a cover for our true intentions--our shrewd majesty would like this problem taken care of too.
"I'm about to meet with a man, of very good standing, one the Rafao himself suggest I talk with personally. His name is Taymar, all I know of him is that he is the proprieter of The Crying Dragon, and that he can be delicately prodded for information reguarding our warehouses' destruction. I understand it may turn out that pushing him too hard may scare him, for he probably caters to all business, and strong pressure from me, might literally start a fire."
Jadmai drew in more softly on his pipe and squinted his eyes from the smoke.
"The crux of this issue I may be able to handle politically, however, it gives us another angle on Harbeki. If it is only our wares going up in flames, then Harbeki must be allowing it. This may give the chance we need to see how blunt of an instrument he is; see how flexible he is. How much he will give before he breaks."
Jadmai suddenly felt the weight of his daggers on his waist.
Yes, my loves, I know you are here.
"He will be leaned on hard, and perhaps have too much knowledge of what we are after. Your thoughts on a Sabata without Harbeki?"
"Don't over think that, for right now your priority is...Neus."
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
Rabiah stood as still as a statue as Jadmai sat, smoked and spoke. Her stillness was not a brittle thing, though. The spymistress was no automaton. Instead her poise was one of comfortable readiness for whatever might happen, with none of the restlessness or fidgeting that accompanied the way so many people held themselves. Possibly one of the advantages of being a slave for life. She allowed herself a warm smile as the adhiel complimented her skills.
When Jadmai mentioned trade disturbances, she nodded in understanding. "I was not briefed on this before I arrived," she commented cautiously, "but I guessed that we weren't just here to exchange pleasantries with the locals. What I've heard from our contacts here seems to back that up."
Whoever Rabiah's contacts were, it was unlikely that this Taymar was one of them. She quirked a slim eyebrow as the name was spoken, and her features hardened ever so slightly. It was likely that, in letting Jadmai know of Taymar, Ionis had gone straight over her head, although professional pride prevented her from saying anything of the sort.
She opened her mouth to answer Jadmai's question about a Sabata without Harkhebi - and left it hanging open for noticeably longer than necessary at the mention of Neus. The ambassador had dropped a bomb into the conversation, and he knew it. Rabiah's brown eyes flashed in astonishment before her features were reset into the same calculating mask as the spymistress internally sifted through the information, carefully considering what she was going to say. When she did speak her voice was predictably measured. "Neus..." she murmured. "You mean the daughter of the Rafao's half-sister, Your Excellency? May I ask what in Anasis' name she has to do with any of this?"
Another thought occurred to her, and she spoke again. "You wished to know whether I would recognise the royal likeness. Forgive my presumptuousness, but... is it that you suspect her of being here, in Sabata?"
When Jadmai mentioned trade disturbances, she nodded in understanding. "I was not briefed on this before I arrived," she commented cautiously, "but I guessed that we weren't just here to exchange pleasantries with the locals. What I've heard from our contacts here seems to back that up."
Whoever Rabiah's contacts were, it was unlikely that this Taymar was one of them. She quirked a slim eyebrow as the name was spoken, and her features hardened ever so slightly. It was likely that, in letting Jadmai know of Taymar, Ionis had gone straight over her head, although professional pride prevented her from saying anything of the sort.
She opened her mouth to answer Jadmai's question about a Sabata without Harkhebi - and left it hanging open for noticeably longer than necessary at the mention of Neus. The ambassador had dropped a bomb into the conversation, and he knew it. Rabiah's brown eyes flashed in astonishment before her features were reset into the same calculating mask as the spymistress internally sifted through the information, carefully considering what she was going to say. When she did speak her voice was predictably measured. "Neus..." she murmured. "You mean the daughter of the Rafao's half-sister, Your Excellency? May I ask what in Anasis' name she has to do with any of this?"
Another thought occurred to her, and she spoke again. "You wished to know whether I would recognise the royal likeness. Forgive my presumptuousness, but... is it that you suspect her of being here, in Sabata?"
[size=84][i]"She told me I had too much to dream last night..."[/i] - [i]Apprentice of the Universe[/i], Pure Reason Revolution
Avatar by [url=http://pixieface.deviantart.com]Liz Green[/url][/size]
Avatar by [url=http://pixieface.deviantart.com]Liz Green[/url][/size]
Jadmai admired the way that Rabiah stood at attention, stoic, yet at the same time responsive. Most would have shifted their weight by now, or shown some sign of not being at ease; a look away, a scratch behind an ear. Rabiah was like a finished and refined sculpture, but still always welcoming a new detail.
Midway through that thought, Jadmai's new detail (his compliment's) added a new feature to the spymistree that he did expect to see: a warm smile. Unexpected or not, Jadmai was glad to see the woman had some play mixed in what seemed her amount of work.
However, after that there was a new feature to this nearly always serene looking sculpture. The laughter was gone and now there was a lift of an eyebrow, and her face actually did seem to turn to stone. She was unsettled. Jadmai had spent nearly uncountable yahren as a petty thief virtually homeless and even longer time of his life being some sort conman (which he found rather similar to politics). Jadmai had grown to read others expressions, and those quick look at first just seemed unsettled to the dark adhiel, after just a few flickers he placed it: pride.
"No," Jadmai said almost sternly, and then dismissively, "no," he was shaking his head the entire time, "that will not exist between you and I, Rabiah--personal pride--I will not have it. It was not meant to be. From what I read of your talents and the trust that Ionis puts in you. You were put here to compliment me as an equal, as I was to you. These tasks cannot be done without each other. They require your cunning, of such a level I will never possess, and my skills of diplomacy, which I believed I picked while spending so much with Ionis. As an ambassador it's not impossible, but defintely foolhardy for me to try and aquire the information you are capable of collececting. Each job needs each other."
"So, let there be admiration, let us take pride in our parternship and be proud of it, but self-pride or pity will shall not be tolerated. " Jadmai rested his tilted head on his hand, and gave Rabiah a small smile. "I'm sorry to make such an ordeal out of it, but I already put a great vaule of our partnership, and I do not wish to see it fall apart for any preventable reason, especially one as easy to cut off as this one. Remember, Ionis himself has paired us up, he no doubt used a greater wisdom than we know."
Jadmai then watched with a slight bit a bemusement as he saw Rabiah wrap her mind around the idea of Neus being here in Sabata, "Well, hmm," Jadmai said tapping his left temple in humorlessly, "I believe that is the only Neus I know." But that is where all the humor stopped as Jadmai went on to lay everything out to Rabiah, "She has everything to do with all of this. All other activities are just a ruse, though convient, just a ruse to find her; shaking up Harbeki at least twice, iinding out what's going on that has our traders so startled--everything is just deversion to find her. I firmly believe she is here, I have it on the best authority: Ionis. She was on the Harlequinn's Ghost, she is our precious cargo. And yes, it is why I asked you if you would recognize the royal likeness--in case you were to spot her before I laid complete trust in you. However, during our conversation, you have one over my confidence in your skill and your trust, so I have told you all I know. Our trail is very cold besides Harbeki, Zhanna, and Roland. Just because my trust has grown for you doesn't change your assignments, you just know there purpose know. So there, no more secrets."
Jadmai struck a match and began his whole smoking ritual again, "Now, you didn't answer my question before, reguarding, Harbeki, for now you truly see, on all fronts, we really want him to talk, and after we do, we might not be able to have running around flapping his jowls to everyone the questions he was asked. Don't forget Rabiah, I asked what would a Sabata sans Harbeki be like?"
Midway through that thought, Jadmai's new detail (his compliment's) added a new feature to the spymistree that he did expect to see: a warm smile. Unexpected or not, Jadmai was glad to see the woman had some play mixed in what seemed her amount of work.
However, after that there was a new feature to this nearly always serene looking sculpture. The laughter was gone and now there was a lift of an eyebrow, and her face actually did seem to turn to stone. She was unsettled. Jadmai had spent nearly uncountable yahren as a petty thief virtually homeless and even longer time of his life being some sort conman (which he found rather similar to politics). Jadmai had grown to read others expressions, and those quick look at first just seemed unsettled to the dark adhiel, after just a few flickers he placed it: pride.
"No," Jadmai said almost sternly, and then dismissively, "no," he was shaking his head the entire time, "that will not exist between you and I, Rabiah--personal pride--I will not have it. It was not meant to be. From what I read of your talents and the trust that Ionis puts in you. You were put here to compliment me as an equal, as I was to you. These tasks cannot be done without each other. They require your cunning, of such a level I will never possess, and my skills of diplomacy, which I believed I picked while spending so much with Ionis. As an ambassador it's not impossible, but defintely foolhardy for me to try and aquire the information you are capable of collececting. Each job needs each other."
"So, let there be admiration, let us take pride in our parternship and be proud of it, but self-pride or pity will shall not be tolerated. " Jadmai rested his tilted head on his hand, and gave Rabiah a small smile. "I'm sorry to make such an ordeal out of it, but I already put a great vaule of our partnership, and I do not wish to see it fall apart for any preventable reason, especially one as easy to cut off as this one. Remember, Ionis himself has paired us up, he no doubt used a greater wisdom than we know."
Jadmai then watched with a slight bit a bemusement as he saw Rabiah wrap her mind around the idea of Neus being here in Sabata, "Well, hmm," Jadmai said tapping his left temple in humorlessly, "I believe that is the only Neus I know." But that is where all the humor stopped as Jadmai went on to lay everything out to Rabiah, "She has everything to do with all of this. All other activities are just a ruse, though convient, just a ruse to find her; shaking up Harbeki at least twice, iinding out what's going on that has our traders so startled--everything is just deversion to find her. I firmly believe she is here, I have it on the best authority: Ionis. She was on the Harlequinn's Ghost, she is our precious cargo. And yes, it is why I asked you if you would recognize the royal likeness--in case you were to spot her before I laid complete trust in you. However, during our conversation, you have one over my confidence in your skill and your trust, so I have told you all I know. Our trail is very cold besides Harbeki, Zhanna, and Roland. Just because my trust has grown for you doesn't change your assignments, you just know there purpose know. So there, no more secrets."
Jadmai struck a match and began his whole smoking ritual again, "Now, you didn't answer my question before, reguarding, Harbeki, for now you truly see, on all fronts, we really want him to talk, and after we do, we might not be able to have running around flapping his jowls to everyone the questions he was asked. Don't forget Rabiah, I asked what would a Sabata sans Harbeki be like?"
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
Rabiah did react as Jadmai spoke of the relation they would bear to each other and the need to shelve pride and pity. She nodded in understanding, and smiled... although there was still a little reserve in her expression. Almost imperceptibly, the smile was a little too eager. The woman had worked in her trade for years, and the idea of trust was one she was eminently familiar with, but openness... complete and total openness of the kind that the dark adhiel was advocating... was alien. The idea of there being no secrets between them was a difficult one, and only time would tell whether the spymistress would be able to accustom herself fully to it.
On the other hand, Jadmai's overtures had had a clear positive effect. There was more than pure professional smoothness in Rabiah's demeanour, now. A considerable degree of enthusiasm was also present.
"Sabata without Harkhebi," she echoed. "If anything were to happen to the man, it would have to be... clinical in its efficiency. The man is in charge of the city's guard, after all, and it is the city's only law-keeping organisation. However corrupt it might be, the guard does ensure at least some measure of safety and security in the city. A removal of Harkhebi would have to be a clean... decapitation of the organisation, or we risk it falling apart entirely. I would guess that a hostile city guard in Ramessu's pocket is still better for business than no guard at all. Only the city's low-lifes and criminal elements would stand to gain..." She left the thought hanging.
"Of course," she continued, "if it could be arranged for the guard to be taken over by an individual with a more neutral perspective, or one more sympathetic to our needs, then we could kill two birds with one stone. But that is more a matter for the diplomatic arena," she said, smiling. "Your department, your Excellency. So I believe we could turn the situation to our advantage, but it would be a delicate balancing act for all of us. From what I've heard, also, it would be a good idea not to risk Ramessu's enmity until we are sure of some strong allies in the city. Diplomatic mission or no, I don't believe the man will let us stand in his way if we appear to threaten his dominance of Sabata."
On the other hand, Jadmai's overtures had had a clear positive effect. There was more than pure professional smoothness in Rabiah's demeanour, now. A considerable degree of enthusiasm was also present.
"Sabata without Harkhebi," she echoed. "If anything were to happen to the man, it would have to be... clinical in its efficiency. The man is in charge of the city's guard, after all, and it is the city's only law-keeping organisation. However corrupt it might be, the guard does ensure at least some measure of safety and security in the city. A removal of Harkhebi would have to be a clean... decapitation of the organisation, or we risk it falling apart entirely. I would guess that a hostile city guard in Ramessu's pocket is still better for business than no guard at all. Only the city's low-lifes and criminal elements would stand to gain..." She left the thought hanging.
"Of course," she continued, "if it could be arranged for the guard to be taken over by an individual with a more neutral perspective, or one more sympathetic to our needs, then we could kill two birds with one stone. But that is more a matter for the diplomatic arena," she said, smiling. "Your department, your Excellency. So I believe we could turn the situation to our advantage, but it would be a delicate balancing act for all of us. From what I've heard, also, it would be a good idea not to risk Ramessu's enmity until we are sure of some strong allies in the city. Diplomatic mission or no, I don't believe the man will let us stand in his way if we appear to threaten his dominance of Sabata."
[size=84][i]"She told me I had too much to dream last night..."[/i] - [i]Apprentice of the Universe[/i], Pure Reason Revolution
Avatar by [url=http://pixieface.deviantart.com]Liz Green[/url][/size]
Avatar by [url=http://pixieface.deviantart.com]Liz Green[/url][/size]
Jadmai started to pace a bit and lit a pipe as he did. The same quick rush came and it receded like a wave hitting the beach, the pupils of his eyes opened largely. His lungs expelled the smoke, and as it did his heart beat slow and his face warm.
The adhiel was pacing as he wondered if the person he shared the room was not getting the subtle hints he was laying about, or was choosing to ignore them.
Stopping his pacing he looked at the woman and tapped his chin, as if he was afraid he was going to lose the idea, when in fact in was central to it
"I must know of this council...does my position ever cause of us to cross paths--would supping together be out of the question? I must know them, get close to them."
Jadmai then slowly walked over to Rabiah, very close. Standing perpendicular to her, his mouth was only a hands length away. He was about to reveal his real intentions about this place. It was if the shorter the distance the words needed to travel the less scandalous they would be.
"Clinical," he said in reference to the killing of Harbeki, "Ionis knows very well that I know how to perform, plan, or construct such clinical acts. If Ionis just wanted a politican, then he wouldn't have choosen someone that has never taken on something like this. He knows..." Jadmai slowly unsheathed one of his daggers. "It is priceless, made by the finest materials and men in Amun Rah in the royal smithy, it's the most perfect blade I have ever seenand I'm a bit of an expert on the subject. I'm also an expert on setting up clinical conditions, or the performance of--none fo the things sound political to me, that's a different side of me. Ionis is appealing to both. But I don't think he understood the zeal I would take for the job."
Empting his pipe on his boot, "Harbeki dead so that someone more favourable is a good idea, and one likely to be executed--for a time." The Western Jewel of Amun Rah? "But that is not the extent of the what goes in the middle. Here is my vision:"
...The Ports of Ionis?
"Firstly, I must be welcomed and loved by the council, but of course most of all trusted. Then we Harbeki is dealt with...and perhaps a few of his second and thirds in charge. We need to create choas, choas, that the local guard cannot handle--if they seem to be able to we'll ask Ionis for plain clothes soliders to push it out of control. The council, most likely frazzled will need help. At this point I will offer Amun Rah men to help quell things, under martial law. As most of our rioters are own the riots should end quickly, But before that, while under martial law where the military will look to the highest in command, taking the council to...safety...they will then be dealt with accoriding to...charges...brough against them. They will be taken care of. In the process I will have created a police force, and a standing army. More than their council can say."
Jadmai still spoke at a just above a whisper, "Imagine that gift to Ionis; The Ports of Western Amun Rah, The Ports of Ionis, Amun Rah's Western Jewel."
Jadmai stepped away, "Of course we have other tasks before us, before that can be put into motion. Our promised duties to Ionis first. Just keep that in mind as me press ahead with the duties I have already set ahead of you."
Jadmai struck a match and lit another pipe as he leaned against one of the bed posts. "Everything clear? Anything to say?"
The adhiel was pacing as he wondered if the person he shared the room was not getting the subtle hints he was laying about, or was choosing to ignore them.
Stopping his pacing he looked at the woman and tapped his chin, as if he was afraid he was going to lose the idea, when in fact in was central to it
"I must know of this council...does my position ever cause of us to cross paths--would supping together be out of the question? I must know them, get close to them."
Jadmai then slowly walked over to Rabiah, very close. Standing perpendicular to her, his mouth was only a hands length away. He was about to reveal his real intentions about this place. It was if the shorter the distance the words needed to travel the less scandalous they would be.
"Clinical," he said in reference to the killing of Harbeki, "Ionis knows very well that I know how to perform, plan, or construct such clinical acts. If Ionis just wanted a politican, then he wouldn't have choosen someone that has never taken on something like this. He knows..." Jadmai slowly unsheathed one of his daggers. "It is priceless, made by the finest materials and men in Amun Rah in the royal smithy, it's the most perfect blade I have ever seenand I'm a bit of an expert on the subject. I'm also an expert on setting up clinical conditions, or the performance of--none fo the things sound political to me, that's a different side of me. Ionis is appealing to both. But I don't think he understood the zeal I would take for the job."
Empting his pipe on his boot, "Harbeki dead so that someone more favourable is a good idea, and one likely to be executed--for a time." The Western Jewel of Amun Rah? "But that is not the extent of the what goes in the middle. Here is my vision:"
...The Ports of Ionis?
"Firstly, I must be welcomed and loved by the council, but of course most of all trusted. Then we Harbeki is dealt with...and perhaps a few of his second and thirds in charge. We need to create choas, choas, that the local guard cannot handle--if they seem to be able to we'll ask Ionis for plain clothes soliders to push it out of control. The council, most likely frazzled will need help. At this point I will offer Amun Rah men to help quell things, under martial law. As most of our rioters are own the riots should end quickly, But before that, while under martial law where the military will look to the highest in command, taking the council to...safety...they will then be dealt with accoriding to...charges...brough against them. They will be taken care of. In the process I will have created a police force, and a standing army. More than their council can say."
Jadmai still spoke at a just above a whisper, "Imagine that gift to Ionis; The Ports of Western Amun Rah, The Ports of Ionis, Amun Rah's Western Jewel."
Jadmai stepped away, "Of course we have other tasks before us, before that can be put into motion. Our promised duties to Ionis first. Just keep that in mind as me press ahead with the duties I have already set ahead of you."
Jadmai struck a match and lit another pipe as he leaned against one of the bed posts. "Everything clear? Anything to say?"
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
"Difficult. The council isn't a close-knit body," Rabiah replied to Jadmai's query. "Its six or seven members meet regularly, but spend little time with each other outside business, from what I've been able to ascertain. Similar to the merchant government of World's Mouth, if you know of them, Excellency. I would advise meeting the councilors individually, or at least those that count." Which, unknown to Rabiah, was what the dark adhiel was already planning in meeting with Akanke. "I get the impression that the council is heavily fractured, so you may need to pick a faction to support against the others, if it proves impossible to ingratiate yourself with all of them."
Rabiah's active mind had to grudgingly allow that Jadmai was testing the limits of her professional neutrality and composure. If mentioning Neus had been a bomb, outlining his ambitious plans for the city was the spark that lit the fuse. The Adhiel she was working for was more than a simple diplomat and friend of the Rafao. He was a... Secret agent. Protagonist. Assassin. Megalomaniac. Whatever else might happen, this was not going to be the uneventful backwater posting the spymistress had envisaged. As she saw it, Jadmai wasn't thinking of diplomacy at all. He was thinking of conquest.
"It is a... bold plan you have there, Excellency," she ventured, letting herself speak a little more freely than her official position suggested. "If our military has the manpower to spare, it could work, although it would be difficult to ensure that no one saw the connection. Portalling men in or shipping them in: either would normally be easily traceable back to us. And of course, even if their entrance was disguised they would likely be recognisable as Amunic natives... but, a few practicalities aside, it seems reasonable. There's a strong Western presence in the city, though. I'm not sure how they'd react..."
The spymistress pursed her lips. "I will keep your intentions in mind, Excellency." What she'd expected to be a routine briefing had left her feeling like she'd been dropped off the roof of the Rafao's palace. "Will that be all?"
Rabiah's active mind had to grudgingly allow that Jadmai was testing the limits of her professional neutrality and composure. If mentioning Neus had been a bomb, outlining his ambitious plans for the city was the spark that lit the fuse. The Adhiel she was working for was more than a simple diplomat and friend of the Rafao. He was a... Secret agent. Protagonist. Assassin. Megalomaniac. Whatever else might happen, this was not going to be the uneventful backwater posting the spymistress had envisaged. As she saw it, Jadmai wasn't thinking of diplomacy at all. He was thinking of conquest.
"It is a... bold plan you have there, Excellency," she ventured, letting herself speak a little more freely than her official position suggested. "If our military has the manpower to spare, it could work, although it would be difficult to ensure that no one saw the connection. Portalling men in or shipping them in: either would normally be easily traceable back to us. And of course, even if their entrance was disguised they would likely be recognisable as Amunic natives... but, a few practicalities aside, it seems reasonable. There's a strong Western presence in the city, though. I'm not sure how they'd react..."
The spymistress pursed her lips. "I will keep your intentions in mind, Excellency." What she'd expected to be a routine briefing had left her feeling like she'd been dropped off the roof of the Rafao's palace. "Will that be all?"
[size=84][i]"She told me I had too much to dream last night..."[/i] - [i]Apprentice of the Universe[/i], Pure Reason Revolution
Avatar by [url=http://pixieface.deviantart.com]Liz Green[/url][/size]
Avatar by [url=http://pixieface.deviantart.com]Liz Green[/url][/size]
"Yes, don't be afraid to say it, it is a bold plan...but it's not something that will be happening anytime soon. There is much to do that the Rafao asked to be done that will be done first. Put those thoughts in the back of your mind, and just lock them away. After we leave this room, it is what I will do."
"You speak to me differently now--you are uncomfortable. That is well and good. Its far from talk about the weather. I shall make everything as diplomatic as it can be, I don't havoc or choas. Control is the key to all our goals," Jadmai paused for a moment running a few fingers his jawline, "you have permission to speak freely if you think the methods border on haphazard."
Jadmai sat on the bed and listen to the spymistress more, he nodded once and said he knew enough of World's Mouth to draw the connection. Then she went on to speak of military power, and this sent Jadmai upright.
"Military manpower? I have seen the Rafao's storm down upon me a thousand and seven-fold. The details of such a battle I will never let be known, but I know the might of Amun Rah first hand, for I was at first perceived as its enemy before ally. The man power is there. He just has to spend it."
The dark adhiel gathered himself and looked at Rabiah, "You have your assignments then, and I trust in your abilities. Come to me with any major findings, and report to me as to what you have gathered at the end of the day. I will share my information and we will see if anything falls into place."
Rubbing the back of his neck Jadmai gazed sidelong at the woman, "You have your leave as you would like. I will be seeing Taymar, as you leave could you check on the status of my invitation to the Councilwoman of the Citadel? Send up anyone with news."
Jadmai allowed his new aqaintence a peek at a half smile, and then nodded in dismissal.
"You speak to me differently now--you are uncomfortable. That is well and good. Its far from talk about the weather. I shall make everything as diplomatic as it can be, I don't havoc or choas. Control is the key to all our goals," Jadmai paused for a moment running a few fingers his jawline, "you have permission to speak freely if you think the methods border on haphazard."
Jadmai sat on the bed and listen to the spymistress more, he nodded once and said he knew enough of World's Mouth to draw the connection. Then she went on to speak of military power, and this sent Jadmai upright.
"Military manpower? I have seen the Rafao's storm down upon me a thousand and seven-fold. The details of such a battle I will never let be known, but I know the might of Amun Rah first hand, for I was at first perceived as its enemy before ally. The man power is there. He just has to spend it."
The dark adhiel gathered himself and looked at Rabiah, "You have your assignments then, and I trust in your abilities. Come to me with any major findings, and report to me as to what you have gathered at the end of the day. I will share my information and we will see if anything falls into place."
Rubbing the back of his neck Jadmai gazed sidelong at the woman, "You have your leave as you would like. I will be seeing Taymar, as you leave could you check on the status of my invitation to the Councilwoman of the Citadel? Send up anyone with news."
Jadmai allowed his new aqaintence a peek at a half smile, and then nodded in dismissal.
"...war is the last flower on the evil tree."-- Betrand Russel
A little of Jadmai's past was emerging now, which was a good thing for Rabiah, as, like most of those employed in the gathering of information, she was inquisitive to a fault. She'd certainly wondered how a dark adhiel could have ascended to the rank of personal representative of the Rafao. While she didn't have an answer, she felt a little closer to one.
On the other hand, she wasn't entirely comfortable with the situation - and that made co-operation on these issues easier rather than harder, as Jadmai suggested. Still, it was a first. Rabiah had never had an employer who was able to strip away her professional facade of nonchalance with such ease and on their first meeting.
"Thank you, Excellency." She bobbed a bow. "It will be interesting serving under you," she added, with a warm but uncertain smile, and then left, leaving Jadmai to his own devices.
(OOC: Unless you have anything to add, I believe we are done here. Akanke's response will arrive shortly in the mail.
)
On the other hand, she wasn't entirely comfortable with the situation - and that made co-operation on these issues easier rather than harder, as Jadmai suggested. Still, it was a first. Rabiah had never had an employer who was able to strip away her professional facade of nonchalance with such ease and on their first meeting.
"Thank you, Excellency." She bobbed a bow. "It will be interesting serving under you," she added, with a warm but uncertain smile, and then left, leaving Jadmai to his own devices.
(OOC: Unless you have anything to add, I believe we are done here. Akanke's response will arrive shortly in the mail.
)[size=84][i]"She told me I had too much to dream last night..."[/i] - [i]Apprentice of the Universe[/i], Pure Reason Revolution
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