Tales of the Jewel

Aydi was a peculiar man, with a peculiar sense of justice. "One cannot fully know the hear of desperate men. Neither of the other two saw how their sister died. On the other hand, it's not right to drive anyone to such desperation. Is there a way to settle it? Would you know how to pass a message, Sidi?"

Another slow, deliberate nod, "It could be arranged."

"What do you think could be an adequate token of compassion and goodwill?"

"From ones they have wronged I imagine even just a word is goodwill. As for compassion... what price a lost sister? I'm afraid that is beyond even my knowledge."

"That is sadly true, it's beyond knowing what makes up for the loss of loved ones." He sighed in sadness. He considered himself responsible. Had he known the true nature of the attempt, he wouldn't have pursued the woman so fervently, and she would live.

He withdrew a copper and put it on whatever table there was in his reach. "You've helped me greatly today, Sidi, and you also have a family to think about. My father has sustained me through his wisdom when I was small so it only feels right. Please take as much as you need, and pass the rest to the bereft family, along with the message. It can't be compensation, but it can be help in a difficult moment."

"It shall be done."

(Aydi gains .7 Integrity - 'Showing sincere courtesy to enemies or rivals')

"Thank you, Sidi, for everything." Aydi rose to his feet, pressed his hand against his heart and was ready to leave the old man to his rest. On his way out he looked around at the kids, whether they had helped themselves to fruit. His own childhood might not have been steeped in poverty but as an adult he well understood that he had floated just above all along, thanks to his father, and he could easily see himself in any of those children.

Speaking of family, he had one more commitment to act on: Faruq's sister. While already in the Maze, he decided to give it a chance to learn something; he would spend the rest of the afternoon on that pursuit, so far without success.

/scene