Crusade!

[Ldy Tehari]

Kimaija

*Hearing the drum, slow, and soft, my heartbeat starts to move and race. It's now or never thought to myself, and my voice began to quake. Calling a guard over, soft and light, then closing my eyes, and raising my hands, and allowed my hips to alight the rythm given. A hipslide, a step closer, a sway, and a turn, bringing my hands foot hard down on his foot, my hands hard down upon his head and then as he fell to his knees hipslide into his nose. Letting him fall silent. Never was I stupid, or maybe I will be. Taking the blade and slicing the ropes at my wrists, finally free! Knowing the harsh desert I would never make it on my own, but knowing the tents, there are infidels with money, and they are looking.. they just need to see. Stealing my way to the tent, seeing only one guard.. how strange I thought.. something's wrong.. but still I stole into the tent, and right behind the drummer. The heat of the pace, and the fast rhythm of the end had left him parched and weary, with sword in hand I stole him water, and he thanked me for the journey by starting.

I watch the end of her lucious dance, a whirling mask of sadness and duty. I watch their eyes dance and prance, and stepping out as her dance ends in front of ravish, revealing myself before them I know what I must do.

The drummer starts a rhytm slow and soft, hiding beneath the veils and a long sarong I emerge before their eyes, Do-U's gasp even cleary heard, and moving, sliding, slithering, stealing thru the night, I tell the story plain.
A thief a great magnitude steals thru the night, and climbing thru a window spots, his prize in a bag thru a swish of veils and turns he swathes her, hips moving along as the rhythm, he rides like hellfire circling the night and then in a flash of steel the blade comes out and atop my head.
It sits as I twirl, and snake, and slither and fight thru henchman of both kind alike. The sword rolls on my head, and down across my chest making it to my side and staying as I lay back in hiding. Moving swiftly under veils as the crescendo begins the thief brings his prize to his master, unveiling my body to show even my flat stomach, presenting the perfect bride, the sword in respect is laid across her head in the dance, as I raise it in praise it is no mistake it lays just under Do-u's chin. And the last drum beat dies as I lay it across my body, as I lay back on the ground at his feet.*

 

[TXExpress]

Do-u

She is on the ground before me; at first, I do not know what to think. This is rare for Do-u; my ability to think on my feet has kept me alive and wealthy.

I look down at her, her dark eyes locked onto mine, her breasts heaving after what has to have been her well-plotted escape; I notice the marks on her wrists. Even though this dance is there for all to see, she is offering herself to me — I sense it penetrating my hardened shell — even as these infidels gawk at the seductive dance Shahla performs for — and on — my trusty bodyguard.

"On your feet, temptress. I should show you the back of my hand for this display; what if the heathens were to see the truth behind your actions? Where then would be the profit?"

Her eyes never leave mine; her face does not betray an expression. She says nothing; in truth, I don't expect her to say a word.

"Come with me. To my tent. Ravish and Shahla have them well occupied."

 

[cgraven]

"Maarisha"

It was a love song, a plea, and the cry of a tortured soul all at once. The war between hart and mind. But she was close her breath I could feel upon my face, her eyes that I became lost in. There was no hope for the mind as my hart took hold of my entire being.

My lips meet "Maarisha" in a hunger that was consuming me, to be one with her and yet there was a tenderness in its' urgency. My arms held her so close I could feel the rhythm of her breathing, and yes her hart as mine matched it beat for beat.

Rodric voice broke the moment as he called with a summons from " My lord De Folqune."

I hesitated not wishing to lose this moment. Yet I broke our kiss. For Duty called.

Our kiss? It was the first time I had thought of Maarisha and I as us. The memory of those coins had faded from my concern to be replaced by the vision of her and I, of us.

I turned to leave, to answer that call of duty.

 

[poohlive]

Ravish leans in closely, letting their eyes steal a glance that was never meant to be. To others it might have looked like they were kissing. Their lips were merely inches apart.
She had been asked to give him pleasure, and that is exactly what he had gotten. Arrogant Do-u, now what is he supposed to do? He can not very well take a woman during the first night of business. They will all be busy elsewhere. He hated that man sometimes.
However, the hate melted when he was brought back to the present. Shahla was right there next to him, their bodies nearly pressing against one another.
"Thank you Shahla. For what it's worth, Allah would have been proud" he held onto her hand, slowly moving her back in place. The other women standing nice and neatly. A line of beautiful women to choose from.
The scene was interrupted though, by another unexpected dance. Ravish looked to the side, seeing as Kimajja began to dance before Do-u. She was out of line, and he moved a step to stop her, but then he saw Do-u give no objection. Even though he felt it wasn't right, he couldn't very well do something without Do-u's word. So, he stood, watching intently.
Soon, Do-u ran off with the woman, a look of lust in his eyes. She did not seem to object.
He turned to the crowd now. It seemed as if Do-u has taken up pleasure for business, so this appeared to be his show now.
"Gentlemen, there are plenty of women for all your needs. You have already seen the lovely Shahla in her dance. Now, the others will entertain you. Ladies, begin the formal dance for the newcomers, if you will."
He paused, waiting for the drum beat just for a moment.
"If you feel at any time, that you would like one to perform a more private dance, then please feel free to take her. Price and so forth will be discussed afterwards."
With that said, he motioned his hand as a steady rhythm began to grow in the hot oasis.

 

[Cutie Lillie]

Maarisha

It was while I looked up into Sir's eyes that he broke through the invisible, unspoken wall between us.

His lips pressed hard against mine, and I struggled at first, the fire in me angry, his grip on me tighter than I could pull away from...

This wasn't a kiss of lust ..it wasn't grabbing....forcing....demanding... taking from me....

It was .....different....

And before my mind could fathom this...he released me and whisked out of the tent ... leaving me standing there ..

I covered my lips with one of my veils and pressed it against them...letting it fall, my fingers gently drew over where his lips touched.

I should be angry, I should be indignant...... but I'm not.

I realize I cannot simply stand there as I hear the music outside seeping in through the tent walls..the familiar beat. I sneer at the thought of the cheap 'talent', the lack of pride...in the same instant my heart breaks for those women. It could all too easily have been me.

I know, without being told that I must prepare myself...

 

[Swashbuckler]

Sir Tanqured

I entered my tent, the mystical rythm beating in my head. A quick glance reveals to me that Genevie is not there. "Blast that woman!" I hiss under my breathe. Giving the tent flap a violent flip as I exit to look for her. A quick galnce shows me that she has been led off by the barbarian storyteller. A flash of anger rushes through my veins hotly. Fists find themselves on my hips as I watch the pair. The music dies a bit nad turn to see the dancers being led away. "Master Peddler!" I shout across the oasis, loudly enough to reach Genevie's ears.

Taking a few steps towards the heathen encampment I shout again, softer but still maitaining my boom, "Master Peddler, putting away your lavish wares so soon?!?" I take a couple more strides catching his attention as he reaches his tent, "Come let us see what treasures you may tempt us with," I say with a malichious smile, resting my hands on my hips once more. Obviously, the best swordsman of the lot was one of the dancers, I thought to myself with an air of ease and desire. I scan the troop of girls this Do-u has with an interested eye.

 

[kitsuke]

Omar Mohammed al-Kali Sharaat

"Of my home?" I say bemusedly, my thoughts drifting back to the seaport city I was reared in, "It is beautiful in it's way I suppose. The cry of gulls echo from the docks at night and cool breezes carress the shore. The buildings are white and clean as my people are very conscious of that sort of thing. The bazaar lines the quay and shrill housewives and lusty-throated merchants hawk everything from fishnets to memoirs of empires past."

My eyes grow distant as another memory intrudes.

"Where my heart is... that is another matter entirely. It I left on the glittering streets of Baghdad." The tent flap raised and lowered as we ducked inside while I rhapsodized, "One cannot say one has lived until the sights of Baghdad have captured your soul. The paving of the roads themselves, the glaze and shine of blue and green winking in delicate patterns. Glittering spires catch the wind to cool the great houses and the result is a whispered choir at all times sussurating through the city. The grand palace stands tall and proud, ivory and gold and ranges in in the rainbow between. Ah, when I think of it... I feel as though I am Barbad, only abandoned my hidden tree in favor of this blasted desert."

I look more directly at Genevieve now, "The nights though, they are what Baghdad means to me. Hot, sultry... the wind caresses you like the soft touch of a woman. Turning you 'round in it's tender grasp and propelling you out to seek others lost in it's thrall."

Staring directly into her eyes now, "So into the night I would go, drinking from the sweet lips of dark wine glasses and making love to the music as it took possession of my body. Madly I would embrace the night and she in return fulfilled my passions in a way I have never since known. I live and travel but to return to her, knowing in my heart that I am richer for the things I see," my eyes travel Lady de Folqune's body, "and do."

 

[TXExpress]

Do-u tries to quell the confusion

"ENOUGH!"

My cry startles Kimaija as we walk toward my tent. But I look behind me, and I see and hear the confusion. Ravish, the fool, tries to do something of which he is not capable; I silently curse myself for letting pleasure interfere with business. It is not my way.

I grasp the girl by the wrist, and we both turn toward the confusion. I stride a few paces with her in tow, then stop and clap three times loudly.

"This chaos gets us nowhere! My lords will agree that there is a time and a place for everything. RAVISH! Gather everyone; no stragglers. Bring them to this spot."

I stand in a tree-ringed clearing between the two encampments. Sufficient room for all, and the moon shines through like a second sun. I signal Ravish to position our possessions in a semicircle; I invite De Folqune to do the same with his.

"My lord, forgive me, but do you not have a lovely wife in your company? We would be honored by her presence, of course. We take pleasure in all the finest treasures, do we not," I add with a sly smile that I know can be appreciated by his like.

"NOW THEN! Where is the one they call Naela? RAVISH! Find her, now! For there is both business and pleasure to be had, no?"

 

[Ldy Tehari]

*Standing in the darkened trees, Do-u screaming for help as usual, and this young lord in front. Looking from one to the other, then in a silked twist downward I tear my wrist away from Do-u's grasp. Opening my veils to reveal the small cholo beneath it covering only my breasts and shoulders, and long flat stomach adorned with henna, and hips surrounded in silk down my long leggs. Walking slowly and carefully two steps toward the visiting lord.*

I am Kimaija, it would be my pleasure to service you.
*moving to my knees.*

I would bring great pride and prosperity to your house. Relieve the pressures of the wife.

 

[Nemo200]

Slavegirl Neala

Neala was standing outside... she dient like to stand in the warm tent she had always been a outside girl.. she was brusihng her black hiar while she heard.. Do-u was talking to Ravish .. Naela smiled while she thought of Ravish he was more kinder than Do-u
at the times..but then Naela had not meet many kind men in her days..
She sighed and putted the comb in a basket...

 

[caspai]

I watch as the sudden chaos erupts in the encampment. I see Kimaija kneeling at the infidel's feet. I respect the risk she is taking, and know I must take some myself if I am to carry out the role that Allah has set me to. Brushing past the other slaves, I slowly walk to the center of the circle, where the flames of the fire can dance on my skin and shadow my eyes. I have seen that the infidel finds us mysterious, and wish to enhance this image in their minds. If they find me tempting, they may wish for my company. As much as I hate what I must do to follow the dictates of Allah, I have no other choice. My path has been chosen, and there is no point in prolonging the wait.

"I, too, am skilled in many things. Many mysteries of our ways, not known to your people, are known to me. Would it not be a kindness to your lady wife to have two women to carry her burdens?"

 

[Swashbuckler]

Sir Tanqured

A broad and arrogant smile on my lips split as I spoke, eyeing the feast that was falling in at my feet, "Rare treasures indeed, Master Peddler, rare treasures indeed." My eyes roaming the sufficiently subjugated females before me, ignoring the request for my wife completely, I call over my shoulder for Edward, "Sir Edward, come quickly, there are a few things you must see here," I cut myself short by bending low and stroking the henna marked one's cheek, my mailed arm creeking as I stretched it out.

Rising back erect and placing two thumbs in my weapons belt, "Master Peddler, so these wares of yours do more than dance?" I asked non-chalantly. The smile having vanished from my face, revealing nothing of my heart to the greedy monger.

 

[poohlive]

Would the man just make up his mind? First he's shouting orders, then he's running around with women, then he comes back, shouting more orders.
It's as if he had never done this before. If it weren't for the fact that Ravish knew Do-u for years, he'd of sworn this was his first time dealing with such business.
Nonetheless, he moved over to Naela, who was just ouside the tents.
"Naela, Do-u is calling for you," he looked at her, smiling slightly, and fixed her veil so it wasn't as crooked. He held onto her shoulder as they walked over to Do-u. Apparently a show was being put on for the main customer of the opposing camp.
"Here she is, awaiting your command," Ravish presented her.

 

[TXExpress]

Do-u

"Pleasure is a word of many definitions, my Lord," I tell the leader, holding a hand up to Ravish and Naela as if to say, wait here a second. "But, good sir, these feasts for the eyes are — and can be — feasts in so many other ways. I believe you comprehend my meaning, no?"

His mouth turns up slightly; it will pass for a smile.

"I see Kimaija and Shahla have captured your discerning eye. Might I offer this one, called Naela, for the amusement of your companion, Edward?

"Now, I beg you, I must take my leave momentarily; a word with my bodyguard. Ravish — come."

I leave the slaves to display their wares and take Ravish aside. For all the disdain I have heaped upon him, he is my only confidante; he and I have seen and done much.

"I see your concern, Ravish. Kimaija is the first in many a day to so throw my focus. I will not ask your forgiveness; it is not yours to give. I seek only to explain. No more will I place that burden upon you. As you can see, these fools mean business. And business is why we are here.

"ALL of us."

I return to De Folqune; the girls have adequately held his attention.

"Now, good sir, you alluded to those things they can do apart from dance. Might the lord have something more specific in mind?"

 

[cgraven]

Sir Edward

The feel of her kiss, it still burns my soul with passion. I have left my doubts and fears behind me for I know now "Maarisha" is my world. I will fight for her honor, none shall ever dishonor her again.

Now to make our guest welcome, as is called fore by the code of this harsh land, for even enemies must share the "Blessings of Allah".

The guard is set my rounds complete as I wander over to the circle where our two camps are made into one. Thought it is a single circle it is still a divided camp. They on there side, we on ours. Touching only in this circle of light and music. It is here that Do-u the merchant and my lord De Folqune speak of wares. Oh yes wares because that is what they are to Do-u human wares

With knotted cord his handlers drive the unwell to the center to dance. To be putt on display as meat at the butcher's stall of the market, for the leering eyes and lust of the men assembled. Trinkets to be purchased for a night or longer. No say in where, or how, or even when, they will grant their favors. Only the knot to drive them to do their master's bedding. It inflects pain but must not bruise the fruit

"By the Living Christ" and "Allah" I hate these slavers and there cargo of human misery.

As I join "My lord De Folqune" and Do-u the merchant my heart is full of dread and fear. My hand upon my sword, knuckles white. For I know in my heart she will not be able to reset the call of the music for her love of the dance. My tortured mind screams out.

"Maarisha no do not dance this night."

 

[poohlive]

Well, at least he knew his actions were wrong. That would be the first step in getting everything back together. Had it been him, or had Do-u been slipping a lot lately? He was getting on in years, maybe all of the heat and pressure was getting to him.
Ravish sighed, if it happened any more, he might have to step in... permanently.
These thoughts escaped him, for he was not one to talk much of mutiny. However, a man can only take so much.
He walked down the line of women, making sure they looked good and ready. The men across the threshold already were looking with hungry eyes.
"Just a few more minutes ladies, I know it's hot and making you stand out here is unbearable, but Do-u is settling affairs with the head of the other camp. Once that is done, things will run much smoother."
He game them all a smile, the poor things, it must have been over a half hour since they were ordered out here. He could see sweat beginning to dripp off of their veils.
Hurry up Do-u, you fool.

 

[Honey_B]

Genevieve Umber de Folqune

The air became uncomfortably close in the tent. My throat had gone quite dry as Omar spoke about the beauties of Baghdad. His words seemed to have the ability to inflame me in a way that the desert sun had not.

"Omar, could I possibly have a drink of wine."

Even to my own ears, my voice sounded husky. In an effort to gain control of my reeling senses, I turned my back on those dark eyes. I tried to swallow.

Stifled beyond measure by the clothes I wore, I lifted my veil off, revealing the close-fitting cloth that swathed my head. With desperate finger, I undid the closers at the back and revealed my hair. A woman's crowing glory. Except to please the eyes of her husband, a lady keeps her hair well hidden.

Not so tonight. I released the pins and long thick ropes swung down my back, falling past my hips. Deftly, I began untwining the plaited strands. A wild nimbus of golden hair was the result. I combed my fingers through it, releasing the tangles. It felt wonderful to be free, in this at least.

 

[Swashbuckler]

"Master Peddler," I say with a laugh, "what makes you think that myself and Sir Edward, here would have need for your inferior quality wares. Sir Edward carries his own dancer at his side. Perhaps a formal demonstration of your wares, in a more comfortable setting would provide an interesting diversion to the tiredom of evening, no?"

"Master Do-U, it would honor us of you would have us to dine with you and experience your wares, of pleasure." I say not even waiting for a response. I turn to Edward with a grin and say softly, "I shall go and fetch my dear Lady Folqune, bring Maarisha, this could prove an interesting dinner," I finish clapping him in the shoulder as I stride off through the sands in search of my wife. I have an inkling that I should find her, before any others do. It woudl do her some good to see me enoy Do-u's presentation, I think to myself as I wnader off.

 

[TXExpress]

Do-u

I feel Ravish's eyes piercing me as I walk toward De Folqune; they pierce my back like stabbing daggers. With this, I cannot concern myself. It is clear that De Folqune and I are of more of a like mind than I led myself to believe. "Inferior?" I only can smile a knowing smile; one that says that the mouth does not speak what the eyes see and the brain recognizes.

"To dine with the men of your party would be an honor," I tell him. "You appear to me to be one who recognizes all forms of pleasure. This you surely shall receive; our wares delight all senses and satisfy no small number of appetites.

"And one never knows ... these poor, humble servants of Allah also might learn of things known only to you and yours, no?"

I summon Ravish again.

"We are to dine with the infidels. The foods and especially the drink must be of our best stock. And the girls ... the girls, most of all, must be at their best in every fashion.

"I want you to pay close attention to the one they call Edward; De Folqune and I are too much alike and will play the games that only men of our ilk play. But Edward ... his hand is the one that holds the dagger of 'his lord.' Just as you hold mine — for use only against enemies and traitors.

"Am I correct?"

 

[poohlive]

"Enemies can be more friendly than you realize," Ravish said, nodding towards Do-u, "I shall prepare everything, and it will go off without a hitch. I do hope you will be there, or perhaps you have other plans?"
He took a quick glance over to the woman who had danced for him earlier, then back towards Do-u himself and a low growl erupted in his throat. Not something anyone would hear, more like something they would sense.
With that, he walked back to the camp.
"Set up the major tent, tonight we have guests. Fix our finest dinner, and do not be skimpy on anything."
In the middle of the camp, canvas began to roll out. After ropes and posts had been set up, the canvas rose into the air, covering the entire encampment. The rugs were now covered from the harsh weather. Blankets and other fabrics were held up to the sides.
When the sun finally went down, a great cold wind began to kiss the oasis. They lowered the fabrics keeping the warmth inside. A fire in the middle kept the temperature perfect.
"Women!" he clapped his hands, "Prepare yourselves for tonight, the best clothes, and the best dances. Nothing less will do."
He checked at the food, all coming along wonderfully. A goat had just been slaughtered, and meat was for everyone. Not just meat, a wonderous array of delicious food. Every little slice of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Walking back outside, he looked at the newcomers. Do-u had wanted him to keep an eye on a man named Edwards. He glanced around, well, where was this man? He couldn't tell any of them apart, all pale with metal clothing. They all looked the same to him. He supposed he would just pay close attention to all that were invited to dinner.
Standing guard outside of the fabric flaps, he crossed his arms. He stood there, awaiting the impending evening.

 

[kitsuke]

Omar Mohammed al-Kali Sharaat

I take some few strands of Genevieve's hair in lifting it in the candlelight.

"When the sun rises on the dunes of the great deserts, the sand turns to liquid gold, shimmering across the thousands of miles so brightly that to look upon it's beauty for too long one might lose even his sight. From such flax one might believe this could have been spun, for it's glory is no less glorious. One who does not appreciate it's worth is once a fool for ignoring his most prized treasure. Twice the fool, is he who loses it.", I say softly taking the Western lady's hand I dip my head and press my lips to her fingers, "I must now take my cue and away, Lady Genevieve, one supposes that the lord of this camp might not be appreciative of one's presence in the tent of his wife."

With a knowing smile I grab one of the great pillows as I slit the tent at the base on it's leeward side, away from the camp. Slipping silently out I pull pillow into position to conceal the new cut. Softly I walk a short distance and pull a small flask of wine from my travel belt, spilling some into the sand and making a show of drinking after that. Gaily I make my way toward the imminent feast and entertainment, knowing my kind are always welcome there.

She would find the silk kerchief this evening, among her bedclothes as she settled in to rest. Perhaps it will serve to remind her of me, and that my intentions are in line with her own. A smile makes it's way over my features and I begin to sing low to myself, preparing my act for the evening.

 

[Honey_B]

Genevieve Umber de Folqune

And he was gone. The tent seemed bereft of a great presence after Omar departed. The air seemed to move again and I could breathe. He had been wise to leave. Already, I could hear the clamorous voice of my husband closing in on the tent. Oh, how I despised him. The man made me hate him a little more each time I was graced with his presence. Starting from the very day I met him, the day we were married. When he had ground my innocence under his boot like an insect…

Breath, stinking of alcohol. Desperate protests. Small beating fists. Cloth ripping. Tears. A slap to the face. Hands pulling at my hair. Sharp pain. A kiss. A mouth on mine. Twisting, hurting, grinding. The taste of blood in my mouth. A battle of wills won by brute strength. A knife blade through my most sensitive flesh, slicing between my soft folds. Sobbing in an ecstasy of agony and fear. And then, I was alone.

I sighed and shook away the unpleasant images. Such were the realities of married life. I expected no more from my husband than the mare does a stallion. He had the use of my body, free rein of my money, but he would never have my heart. Not that he had ever made a bid for it. No, my lord showed more kindness to Rollo than he did me. I smiled. A vivid and very unladylike image of them in a comprising position lightened my heart.

As I removed my mantle and kirtle, I thought about Omar. Nobody had ever described my hair with such words, made me feel as he did when he looked at me with those dark eyes. He had taken me to a far off land, to the mysteries of Baghdad. And in doing so, had shown me a place within myself, a place that could respond to a man.

 

[cgraven]

"I shall go and fetch my dear Lady Folqune, bring Maarisha, this could prove an interesting dinner," he was gone off on his way to prepare the feasts arrangements.

A feast an Maarisha to dance and I to deliver here there. I dread this evening as we two are placed in the middle of “My Lord’s plans” to humble Do-u. With a heavy hart I return to the pavilion and to Maarisha.

She is there lost in her own thoughts. My hands hang helplessly by my sides; duty can be a curl mistress. Does she see the dread in my eyes? I loath to bring “Me Lords” request, nay his summons for us both.

I am a man of action not intrigue.

 

[Swashbuckler]

Sir Tanqured

I threw the tent flap aside and looked in, "There you are my treasure," I said to Genevieve as I ducked into the tent. "Now where have you been, this evening, my love?" I asked as I leaned in to give her a kiss on her sun reddened cheek. Not really expecting an answer.

She pulled away from me slightly, feigning modesty of a convent girl. Straightening myself, "My heart, we are to dine with the heathens tonight," I informed her. A broad smile broke my lips as I said, "I think you might find the entertainment interesting."

She turned her head toward me, but I cut her off before she could begin one of her protests, "Wear your emerald silks I bought for you in Jaffa." I took a step towards the slit in the tent and called over my shoulder, "I shall retrieve you in a moment, we dine shortly." I made my last statement as cold and demanding as possible to let her know that this was not something she could hide herself from. As I passed out into the desert I pulled the flap wide aside and gazed upon her half dressed form, how beautiful she was I thought. "Genevieve, my treasure, Edward is bringing his pet Maarissha as well." I dropped the flap and stood with my back to the tent staring intot he desert night.

 

[TXExpress]

Do-u

The feast is set. All the finery of two worlds, brought together under one, enormous tent in a setting only Allah could have chosen. All the stars in the heavens shine as beacons; the moon is a second sun.

They have done well. The aromas of delicacies from far and wide drift through the night air as people enter the tent. De Folqune is nowhere to be found. As Edward enters close behind, his dancer in tow, I nod my head quickly at Ravish; he is the one, I motion. De Folqune's men and possessions occupy the half farthest away from the flap; one cannot be too careful, no? My followers are in the remaining space.

Voices speaking in countless tongues now join the culinary aromas in the air; it is alive tonight. I scan the eyes of the infidels; they are, indeed, windows to the soul, and men such as De Folqune and myself hide our souls well. Hands are placed discreetly over mouths; quick pointing gestures occasionally made. My men do the same. Each of our women, as it has been ordained, say nothing.

Pleasures of the flesh soon will come. But for now ... we dine.