[pnpgm] Kiet's musings

[David Sanders]

Kiet takes the transport in stride now, but he's still uncomfortable with it.  After the warnings he's seen, and who knows what else he hasn't seen or been told about, he wonders how safe it is in proximity to his fellow travellers.  Especially Z'leyra. Kiet wonders about the blast radius of a major lightning bolt from the heavens.

Except for Ben'dar, Kiet knows little of the Zen'da.  He knows they are barbarians and all, so he watches his belongings very closely, most especially Ma Siwang...his horse.  But knowing Ben'dar probably did not stray to far from the tribes he suspects they are at least honorable.  But he still watches his belongings.  Kiet does his best with their language, at least attempting to speak with them.  With luck there might even be a chance to compete.  He knows that some cultures enjoy games of speed, strength or endurance.  If any are offered, Kiet will take on the task just to show he is not afraid to try.  Depending on the wager, of course.

This may well be a long trip.  There may not be much opportunity to perform great deeds, or make any reputation for himself, but he still feels that he must continue this 'trip' to the end.  The questions about Z and her family, and the person(s) causing the trouble, are an interesting puzzle, one Kiet would like to help solve.  Kiet is uncertain that Z's sister is truly involved, especially since the double seemed to not have her ritual drum with her.  Kiet didn't think ANY shaman would leave such an important artifact behind.  So, the question is, who was it really?

Kiet smiled to himself, then frowned a bit after thinking again about residual blast damage from a lightning bolt.  His original thought was that it would, indeed, be funny if the Balance gods decided this was the way to punish her.  It would be funny, from a certain point of view, perhaps.  Kiet hoped he might never 'enjoy' such attention.  He shudders noticeably, and not from the cold.

Kiet is well aware that the Zen'da rarely wear much, if any armor.  They will use shields when using spears, and even have an extra shield sometimes with their horses.  Kiet does try to look at the shields, and sees they are often decorated or painted, usually with scenes of battle, creatures, or shapes unknown.  He asks about them and is told they usually depict something about the tribe, or the bearer, or is simply almost a totem-like item, more for luck and protection.  But the actual shield would be a poor defense.  But, then, that is why so many have two. 

Kiet doesn't let any of these Zen'da know about his little supply of enchanted coinage.  He figures they might be needed later, or perhaps will make more of an impression away from someone as powerful as Cetric.  Rarity makes things more valuable.  Besides, why tempt them.  Having Kiet's little trinkets would greatly aid such barbarians by giving them a much greater roaming range...and a huge advantage over their neighbors.  Kiet chooses not to use them while in or near camp.



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