Sekhema Asala
Did our scouts find you?
Sekhema Asala
It is good to see you.
Warrior
No, I returned to seek your aid. We must assault Oriath, to slay the Beast.
Witch
Scouts? No. The Beast is in Oriath, and it’s time we did something about it.
Sorceress
Likewise. I have discovered that the Beast is in Oriath, and we must wage war.
Ranger
You had scouts looking for me? The Beast is in Oriath. We must go.
Huntress
I am not so easily found. We must get to Oriath. The Beast is there.
Monk
Not possible. I’ve been on the sea. The Beast has been taken to Oriath.
Mercenary
Might have. Not sure. I’ve come to ask your aid once again, boss. The Beast… it’s in Oriath.
Druid
Aye, I’ve returned. But not for pleasantries. The Beast’s in Oriath, and we need yer help to take it down.
Sekhema Asala
Yes. We have learned this as well, and have been looking for you. Your return is timely. I am making moves to gather the {akharas} for war, but they will not follow my leadership unless this goes well. This year, because of what I am attempting to do, it has become my duty to oversee the Gifting of Water. In the city of Qimah, the {akharas} gather at the appointed time, as marked by the skies. There, we divide sacred water. We ‘keep the river flowing,’ as it is said. The same waters that once flowed through Keth.
Warrior
A powerful tradition. How can I help?
Witch
Hmm. And something’s not going according to plan, I take it?
Sorceress
I am familiar. Is there a problem?
Ranger
Am I to play some role in this?
Huntress
I can respect that. You sound concerned, though.
Monk
A symbol of unity. What can I do?
Mercenary
That’s all above my head. What’s my job?
Druid
Goin’ by yer tone, I’d venture somethin’s gone sideways.
Sekhema Asala
The {sel khari}, the sacred guardians of the First {Barya}, have not arrived… Three nights before the Gifting, they are to bring the {Barya} here. We cannot find them, nor have we received word. It is not mere chance that this has happened at such a time… there is an enemy at work. I am not permitted to know where the {sel khari} live. Zarka, can you entrust this knowledge to an outsider?
Zarka
Yes, in times of need. This surely qualifies. You earned our trust by your care and service at Deshar. Come closer, young one. I must speak to you privately.