Tales of the Jewel

Rufus shakes his head. "I'm not going to rule anything out. Including just running away from it all and going local. But I'm not going to pine over Kezia. If it's meant to be, it will be."

Rufus places his forearm over his chest. "I will see you this evening then Domina Zara"

Rufus offers a grin. "How about the Cat's Tail, in the late evening Domina-" he cuts himself off. "I don't believe we actually exchanged names. I am Rufus of Belgica. And the lady is... "

"It's a long story. The short version is that I was sent to investigate a city that is considered a legend. A city with immaculate walls, filled with people of different cultures...and magic ." The last word was spoken with fear and reverence, but he composes himself. "But if it's a longer one you w...

"I...I honestly don't know" Rufus looks up. "Where I come from, there is no magic." He studies the woman. "How much are you asking for the piece?"

"With magic?" There is a sudden eagerness, a hunger in the words.

Rufus coughs again, quickly seeing this conversation taking turns he had not expected. "Yes, I do miss Kezia. We became fast companions in a short time, and I do wish to see her again. But we both knew that neither would immediately meet the other and settle down. I was not exaggerating before: I am...

She looked at the Yodotai man, knowing she'd seen him before, "...yes, you were at the other Ra'Shari caravan as well. I could hardly mistake that build and hair anywhere. From the way you look at Raya... does this mean you are courting her or something?" Another curious headtilt from the princess....

Raya laughed. "Perhaps it is a sign that the water is not so bad sidi? I've never seen large pools of it, but I've seen things in the sand that would make a big ocean look like a fluffy pillow in comparison. Still, you are not your army, yes? You are in the company of Ra'Shari, and here things like...

"And what do you believe?" Rufus makes no motion of removing his hand, but returns his gaze to the piece. "You said it was from he prophet's wall? I don't think I've seen it yet? Or if I have, it didn't mean anything to me. If there are pieces missing, it must not have the splendor it once did."