As the one-eyed soldier gave them a fierce appraisal, Bartek flashed him an easy-going grin. Zosia's expression was hidden behind the cloth that covered her face, while Tytus's lips and eyes were like unmoving stone. Together, they followed the fierce Shirian deeper into the camp, and with each step, like the grains of sand seeping into their boots, they could feel the irritation of some of those there. The Casimirians were not at all surprised; hiring outside help meant that they weren't satisfactory, and what capable being liked being told they weren't enough for the job?
Eventually, they entered the grand tent, where a show of hospitality was prepared for them to partake in. Bartek and his companions smiled at the familiar -though accented words- and at the sight of such a sumptuous meal, not at all shy about expressing their enthusiasm. All three of them barked out their thanks in quick succession, before finding their seats in quick order. However, they did not eat, nor did they drink.
"Hm. Right," began Bartek, his eyes of roving hungrily over the honeyed toast and the cool cups of water. Zosia had been quick to make sure the wineskin was far, far away from the mercenary captain. "Now, Marzban... how may we provide our assistance?" He licked his lips as he spoke, the skin of it dry and chapped. "As you already know, I am Bartek. All my life, I have been fighting, and it is all I know to do." Then, he gestured to his companions, placing a hand on each one's shoulder in turn. "This is Zosia, my best archer, and Tytus, the strongest man in my employ. There are many others outside, all with their own skills..."
Then, he stood, bowing to the Marzban, then to the scribe, and finally, at the one-eyed captain.
"But together, we all ride... and eat, as one. Until those outside are also fed and watered the same luxuries, I'm afraid we cannot partake in this feast. We may continue to discuss the matter of your proposal, however." Finally, he sat back down and turned his body towards the Marzban. "I have heard talk of rebels, but I did not imagine it was this serious. Or perhaps, you are being proactive?"
While clearly craving for the foods before them, neither Zosia nor Tytus raised complaint about the man's words. Instead, they, too, focused on the Marzban, curious to hear what he had to say. There was an admiring glance towards the bird, particularly by the archer, while Tytus seemed to view it as an oddity.
Its Elven,
BunniesOfDoom,
TaintedMushroom,
TokyoPewPew,
Kaithe Dame,
Herald,
sweetestsins,
Estylwen,
vietmyke,
Randomness
