Naira was felt a wellspring of emotion in her belly, or several. Life on the mountain-side with the goats was uncomplicated, it was difficult, yes, but she could always be decisive, the right action was always obvious (Ascend, descend, climb, find food, eat, sleep, brush the fur, find the lost one, etc). It was not so simple when dealing with people, whom she spent much less time with.

Was it curiosity that drew her toward the woman? Naira had met few whom were not of Dan blood. The Dan had always respected the goddess, never harming a woman with child, and unlike what Naira had heard about the barbarian low-land countries Dan women were raised to be strong just as the men were. Yet, what people did this woman belong to, who supposedly were so close to Lithis?

Was it envy? Did she envy that such a thing came easy to this woman, that she had heard the voice of Lithis and knew her will. 

Was it a call from Lithis herself? Did Lithis use her gentle strong hand to draw the Dan to her prophetess?

As a Dan, she knew that the Goddess did not reveal herself to everyone nor should she. She would speak with those who were worthy, those who were strong enough to endure her presence and carry her word. Every Dan child learned quickly that if you were not strong enough for your sword you could easily cut yourself upon it.

If this small barbarian woman was strong enough for the Goddess herself, a goat-herder would not be a problem.

“Your audience is thinning, it is not that the Dan do not have the strength to face the invaders and the witch. Should such a course be decided victory will be assured, for we the Dan live by strength. Yet, to turn away from the witch is not a small matter. She has proven herself to the mountain. If you want the faith of the Dan you must do so yourself. Starting with me."

She set her goat down, entrusting it to a capable looking youth whose blue eyes widened as he realized what was about to take place.

“My name is Naira Tupaarnaq Antiman. I would challenge you in a duel of honor. If the Goddess truly favors your word then she shall favor your sword.”

Now, the lowlanders were not accustomed to the ways of the Dan, and did not always understand or accept such challenges. It was considered dishonorable to take advantage of an ignorant enemy in such a way. But, this woman knew their tongue and claimed to know their ways. If she hesitated or faltered it would discredit her entirely. After all, if she knew the Dan she would know that It was only a matter of time before [i]someone[/i] would challenge the prophetess. 

If she accepted, a crowd would quickly gather, a much larger crowd than she had originally entertained with words alone. If she won ever Dan in this town would know every word that had already left her mouth, and listen to every word she would say thereafter. They would all consider the will of Lithis and her prophetess. If she lost this duel, then her speech would quickly be forgotten as blasphemous words should be.