Post by Queen Beathag Aberdeen on Sept 16, 2010 11:00:51 GMT -6
Part I
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
The days of yore and an unknown tomorrow hung with the air of unknown mystery numbing the tongue with tastes already experienced. If only one could graps the names, they'd know the thing, yet the ones who were supposed to know tasted only faint portions of an entire experience. Solid steps of a long, sure stride patterned the footfalls of the contemplative; Beathag was a woman of deep thought as her years increased. Nearly forty and one, the last few years had seen her accomplish an capable understanding of Latin so that she didn't need missives from across the sea translated in to either English or Gaelic. She read books on philisophy and history. Still, her tongue was numb with the flavor of foreign affairs, not developed from a mere fledgling tingle for one could only go so far. She wasn't omnipotent. She swore some expected it of her. One of the things she did do well as she came to one of the city's gardens, imparticular the entrance to the Hedge Gardens of Blue Castle, was hold an audience. Tonight she would be meeting with a figure she had not seen in some time (d)
Ahmir Miros
Time had seen the need to foray out through the world, searching over the islands that compromised the world of Skye. His presence and any news of him would find itself scarce, as a part of the reason that the Egyptian even walked the lands of this kingdom was to gather information. A feat that he found out often came by pursuing what was known by those considered the lower class to most nobles, before rising higher within the heirarchy to pick the brains of those beings who created the laws that govern the lands. Maps and landmarks had been sketched of the islands, for his own purposes at the moment. Little knowledge on the subjects he was researching had been found, yet a good deal more had come to him by ways of simply familiarizing himself with this consortium of islands that had found itself a major player in the affairs of the world at large. Finally though, his journeys brought the man of shadowy past and reputation to return to the capital, Turas Lan. Not much time was wasted once returning, before an audience was requested of the Queen, a woman who was quite the interesting person...and who so happened to be Ahmir Miros' greatest asset in this land. It seemed he had found at least enough favor within her eyes to gain the acceptance of such audience requests. As was his habit, Ahmir arrived at the assigned meeting area to case it out an hour before the appointed time. Such behavior held many reasons behind them, not the first of which being the knowledge of the area, and to plan out at least two escape routes should they be needed. The requirement of such was hardly thought to be necessary, given the person he was meeting, yet he preferred to be safe, rather than sorry. After that, it was simply a matter of time and patience. Patience that would eventually come to be rewarded as the figure of the Queen came to be recognized at that garden entrance. Ahmir's cloak would lay over his shoulders, hiding most of his form, as well as what weapons he had brought with him. He did not expect to use them, but once more, better safe, than sorry. Ahmir would not have been waiting by the entrance directly, but in a nice, cozy nook, with just enough cover to allow him to remain inconspicuous, and gave him a perfect field of view. Now though, it was his turn to make his appearance. Walking forward, it would almost appear to her that he had indeed, been waiting for her. "Good evening, My Lady." Offered out with a slight bowing of his head. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
What was it Ahmir sought to gain, what did he stand to lose? It was so strange a man of an ancient country with long standing dynasties,even now with some of it in the hands of Europeans should venture here. Why sacrifice warmth, why care for the tiny bit of Celt states unified in the cold throws of the sea? Did he enjoy being blown on by the North Wind? Beathag wondered these things now in so much as she balanced a sort of interesting appeal the man held. The service received by those whom the rest of Europe were busy in constant Crusade against had proven immense. This was what came with an open mind, religious tolerance, and value of worth not based on the appearance of face. It was not the easiest policy to always maintain, especially when one made Duchies of former enemies but it had been a token of state thus far. Purple, the shade of royalty, blended in well with the dark velvet of the autumn night. She met her person as awaiting in secrecy, as befits his trade. "Good evenin'," replied the subdued brogue for the purpose, "Ye summon me by messange n' continue with secrets. Wot have be been about lately, tis been some time since last we met." She would have looked as if she met a paramour were it not for the addition of trusted guard numbering three that haunted her steps like tall, brewding Norman-Scott ghosts. One was her brother, Caldean, another her nephew Brycean, of the Scotts, and the third was Brom, a norsemen. (d)
Ahmir Miros
For so long had Ahmir been travelling, with trips back to his own homeland being so rare, that the weather that plagued Europe and those countries north of his own, did not seem to bother him quite as much. His first time seeing snow had been interesting. He had gained many a laugh from natives for the layers upon layers he had thrown on. Yet there was always a part of him that would long for the heated sands. So often had he hated the sandstorms that would blow up every so often, and yet now, he would smile to experience one. Such were the longings of home no matter where your life took you. When she spoke, he would have to think that her words were indeed quite true. His life was full of secrets, many of which he would be unable to reveal currently. Though even in their long talks, Ahmir had failed to truly divulge much about himself, as their conversations had revolved around the values and government of Skye, or of religious beliefs and tolerance. He had managed to weave the conversations so thatit never felt as though he were prying, yet information came, even as their conversation remained interesting and varried. Still, his own reasons for being in Skye had been vague, at best when pressed on them. "Forgive such requirements, but I am sure you understand at times, the need for secrets." The presence of those guards would be expected, honestly...there would not be much doubt that a royal would keep an escort outside of the castle walls, unless they were begging to be assassinated that is. "I have been enjoying the great bounty that is Skye. Getting the lay of the land, as it were." He offered a small smile as he mentally weighed out the options on what he could, or should, tell her. After all, she may not like the idea that someone had sent him to her lands to infiltrate and gather information, while seeking out the reason for many the Scottish/Skye ships no longer making it to their destinations in Africa. Granted, he was there to help in that aspect, but it was all interconnected in a manner, which meant that it was also something he had to tip toe around. If not flat out lie. "I have heard rumors though, rumors that I thought perhaps to speak with you privately about." ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"Have ye enjoyed what ye have seen, experienced? Let's be plan sir, Ah'm nay a fool. Either ye are here tae gain fer yerself a place or fer another a word. Otherwise ye would seek me in the day, in the open places all know I keep. I dun nay think yer aggressive in wot ye desire.." The guards looked out towards the stone lions on the steps of Blue Castle just yon, eyes narrowing as if these dealings should be carved in stone for the truth to last all eternity. Fabric shifted around soft black boots as shemoved forward. Her guards remained four steps behind as part of her was half lit by the moon, half shroud in shadow. "Wot is it ye think I can give ye though is the question, n' I believe ye have things fer me as well. Sae let us discuss." With a hand's beckon the guards moved in to follow as she allowed the privelege of moving beside her to the Egyptian. The last trace of the sun was her gold head, a halo now of eerie countenance by shadow and moon. The lighs, like this meeting, were almost an eclipse. It had been hard until late for the ships of Scotland and Skye thus including such as English ships to move around Africa and towards the East through the Strait of Gibraltar. As things may be cooling conflict was still sure to arise. Piracy, privateering, competing interests wouldn't cool as quick as foreign canon fire.(d)
Ahmir Miros
"Indeed, I have." He gave a small smirk to himself when she spoke of not being a fool and wishing to speak plainly. Though as she asked him what it was he thought she could gain him, he let a brow quirk just slightly as he moved to walk in step beside the Queen as she allowed it. So, what did he want to say here, what would he ask for when she wanted to know what it was that he thought her capable of offering him. "True, though in the open places you keep, or in the receiving chamber of your castle, there are perhaps more ears than I prefer to have open to our conversation." He looked out to the sun as it's final rays came to cast their soft golden glow upon them, before the first ebbing of darkness came to take the place of such light. "I believe that there may be a place in Skye that a man such as myself might be beneficial in...and I believe you an intelligent queen, who could perhaps, suggest an area my talents may be best suited." He let that gaze of his shift over to rest upon her once again as he continued to speak. "And what is it you believe that I have to offer you? If we are speaking plainly, My Lady?" He was indeed curious to find out what it was she felt he could bring to the table. Negotiations...sometimes politics sucked, even when plainly spoken. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"Aye, but the walls o' m'castle n' places o' standin have ears, Gods willin' tha' serve their Queen. If nay they are cut down quickly. Sae far ye talents seem secretive n' such places ah would know tae use ye dependin on our conversation but first we must understand one another, fer ah shan't turn ye out tae those places. Secrets guarded,nay tae be gained." She turned a corner, looking at his face which seemed to wear an astute expression. He was by no means a stupid man. She had a feeling even with her guards there could be a substanial physical quarrel if he wished it, with them being a match for one another."Ye have news o' foreign lands tha' we deal with lest ye would nay be behind a quiet hedge maze, sir. Always lookin, always seekin, always with an weathered eye." Things to put on the table, points to consider as each moved their chess pieces around while shuffling feet over garden paths. "Yer either runnin' from somethin or full o' old habit." (d)
Ahmir Miros
He offered a nod of his head when she mentioned how she hoped the ears around her served her. Yet history seemed full of those empires and kingdoms crummbled from within by ears thought to be loyal, and found to serve other masters. It was the way of the world, and a precaution. The queen as intelligent on her own...and the verbal chess games they played were quite challenging enough, than to have another within her walls knowing what business he did lay out between them. While the two would walk, their words flowing, he offered a small smile as he heard her tell him that they would not even be walking those hedges had he not some form of information or such she desired. There was information that he could indeed offer her, and other bits that he would be unable to give quite yet. With the comment that he was either running, or his habits were simply those ingrained from so much time with them. "Perhaps it is a mixture of both." Indeed, there were those habits, which he still used, mainly because he was still doing those same things...yet at the same time, he knew he was trapped in his position. The protection his Order offered of his sisters was all keeping their lands from being attacked again...should he turn away from Egypt and what they wished for him, then his family would be in danger. It was a catch 22 for him. The only thing that would be a saving grace, would be the love of what he did. Assasinations, spying, covertly twisting the chords of power throughout the world...While he hoped and felt that what he did was for the greater good, he could not deny the thrill that came to him as a job was completed...though, there was something here, something about Skye that was different than anywhere else...and it was not only the fact that he'd come to find a personal connection to it through that Greek officer of theirs. "I was an officer in the Egyptian army at one point." In fact, Maahas had been under Ahmir's command for a short time, being brought into the young officer's specialized unit before Ahmir's own path had split away from the Army and led him into the shadows. "My past is very...complicated, as I'm sure most people's is. But my skills and the path the gods had set before me, began there, in explanation, perhaps, as to my habits." It was about the most he'd told of his past to her before now. No doubt though, with her insight and intelligence, she might have an inkling of the turn his life may have taken. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
Kingdoms rose and kingdoms fell, empires rose and empires fell. This was just how time worked and she wagered her own work would one day fall to the wayside save in history books or in Gods willing, the generations that ruled after her unto the end of their house. In the hedge maze worlds met as they spoke of how the world treated them. "An officer in the Egyptian army. I have had several in m'service from the African n' other desert parts o' the world. The King n' I have nary a bias on flesh or bias on culture sae tha' can nay be it or ye wouldn't be standin here. A past is complicated n' perhaps n' time ye will tell me as ye feel comfortable." Nothing ventured nothing gained, but then again if he offered too much he could gain less as was the same with her. It was all a very careful bit of coreography. She figured him for those that worked within her shade of Ebony Talon, the likes of intrigue artist, political masterminds, killers, masters of the social, academic, and miltiary graces. Every level of this had a place for even the lowest man knew something the highest didn't, and vice-a-versa. "Sae now I ask again, wot dae ye want from me? Dae ye wish a place in my service or knowledge as it would pertain tae a question from where ye are from? Perhaps both? Many dae nay come sae far without a question..or seek an audience without a question." She looked at him with a quiet smile, "We can nay dae this till all-hours, I'm nay only a queen, but a wife n' a mother. M'family will grow worried." (d)
Ahmir Miros
He looked forward as Beathag spoke of the diversity of Skye, then that she did not believe that had to do with why he was there. Then, as she mentioned that she would not be able to remain there for long, since she had many responsibilities that weighed upon her, personal as well as otherwise. "Very well. Indeed, there is a question I have. I have found a certain curiosity as to the reasons that so many ships from this set of Islands and Scotland, have been travelling so far as to Egypt. I had heard the issues and rumors of the problems being had with these ships as they tried to travel there." He followed along with her lead, taking the turns when she made them, and now, when he posed his inquiry, he would bring his gaze to her. "In regards to requesting to join your service...I would not be opposed to such, yet...I think we both may have more we would like to know and learn of each other beforehand." He did not know why he wasn't jumping at the possibility of gaining that infiltration position. then again...maybe it would have been too obvious. Or maybe that sense and feeling he had about this place just caused him to second guess himself and his intentions for even an instant. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"The Egyptians have been with their wars, as have other Berber countries at tha' the North o' Africa. I've heard now the wars have come tae a close, but tha does nay mean waters will settle. As before now after the risk o' piracy is high , risk o' e'en allies bein' exploited by alleged privateers with letters o' mark. Squabbles between merchants, these things afore n' after make movement through the strait slow n' the flow of goods delayed. We seek nay tae deprive our allies o' the sands anythin as they would nay seek us, but often times ye haven't a choice unless ye are a god." The answer came in earnest but didn't betray personal things such as ship names, captains, manifests, alliances with whom or how. She looked at him still with intense study. Indeed, many things to know of him. His intentions, for if he doubted she questioned double so came to a point, "If ye are found tae work against the nation's allies ,it could be treason, on two fronts. Hope tha' be nay the case, tis nay worth it. Does nay seem such..but seem n' are, these be two different states." She put her hands behind her back as they moved along (d)
Ahmir Miros
That information about the African countries being at war with one another was not unknown to him, and the rumors of the ships that were sent from here being attacked were believable, and confirmed somewhat by her answer. Of course, there was no detail that was truly offered, other than the fact that they wished to send their goods to their allies in those areas. She of course, continued on to speak, informing him that should he be working against them, he could be charged with treason, which in any country he'd ever been in, had meant death. But that was also something he knew very well, and risked often in his line of work. "Indeed...forgive the curiousity, yet I could not help but wonder...You all have seemed to become quite the focal point of Europe...No doubt many question such a rise...of course, I also can not help but admire what you all have done." He looked over to her, waiting until they would make eye contact, before he glanced back to her guards who tended to walk along within hearing distance, no doubt, just in case of any spoken threats...and because he remained standing so close to their queen. But that look would be a silent request for just a tad bit more privacy. He was about to take a very calculated risk, but one that he would only make to her, with no other's listening in. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"Aye, all eyes are turned on us...for admiration or disdain for tha' matter.." Wry smile lifted edges of lips and pulled at the only age sign she had, laugh lines in the corner of her eyes or a slight bit of worry on her brow. The information traded was the sort you could easily obtain at crossroads in any knowing kingdom. Tit-for-tat. A ha-penny for the news. Yet the art of his work and her own former knowledge was that webs were to be woven. Common information taken for exploit or retention for later purpose. At the very least she as honest: whatever agenda he had, if it proved false his head would pay forfeit. Whatever it was she hoped it was worth it. Whatever it was, she truly hoped it didn't work against them. Something told her that Ahmir was conflicted, but of what? He was skilled so she didn't expect him to surrender that without trust. No way each could trust the other beyond a basic. His eyes fell on her retinue to which green eyes followed the line of sight, thus his reasoning. She gave a silent sigh before acknowleding the obvious with a cant of her head to them. Her brother was not fond of this idea. No, none of them were. It wasn't that she couldn't take care of herself but that her guard were supposed to keep her in a position from ever having to. As they receded enough to be deaf, to be obscure, it would be only the pair of them. (d)
Ahmir Miros
He offered a nod as she mentioned the eyes that were upon Skye at the moment. When she came to the same conclusion of his request as was meant, and her guard did slip back just enough to leave them unable to listen in, another measure of trust for Beathag was founded from that particular Egyptian. With his skills, his job, and such distance presented between themselves and her guard, should he wish her harm with the greatest chance of escaping, this would be the moment in which he would have performed such deeds. As his profession, it was hard not to notice and note such things mentally, even when those actions, were not intended. Once their conversation would be unheard by any others, for the main fact that while part of him did trust the Queen, he was not yet to the point of offering up even the same measure of trust Beathag had, to even those of her personal guard, who she trusted with her own life. "Indeed, I can assure you, that there are many eyes set upon your lands. Some, set more closely than perhaps others. The reasons for this attention, in all honesty, I can not say...." Yet he would leave unsaid that often times, if he was sent there, it may not be for the best outcome. The things they wanted from him, the maps and such...they were the same things that could be garnered from any one of the traders as they sailed through. Yet the maps, the drawings, the landmarks, the strategic points that would be offered up by one of Ahmir's like, could be incredibly strategically valuable. So while his presence could be seen as harmless, it's outcomes could be far from it. "It may seem like a trivial piece of information considering everything....but I hope it may be a piece that increases the trust between us, so that at some point, so many secrets might not need to be kept." ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
Trust was the same as information; nothing ventured, nothing gained meant that both of them would be stuck in a holding pattern. As much as she detested intrigues the woman was not stupid enough to not know how they worked or understand that they would be the undoing of the realm if she did not seek to unravel or tie bonds first. While she waited for Ahmir to speak, she folded the long fingers of her hands by way of the left over the right with the arms coming to rest in the front of her abdomen as they were elongated. He could have killed her but didn't. He could try later - yet something told her he wasn't out for blood at all. "At least ye mention them. Tis a start, sir, n' there be hope tha' more will be later said." It meant that she would need to see agents sent out to borders and the continent at other courts to make sure the turn of eye was favorable. If it was malicious, at least the kingdom would have forewarning. Even to this man whom tried to earn her trust .No doubt they would follow one another's circle for circle. "Ye may have hope."
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
The days of yore and an unknown tomorrow hung with the air of unknown mystery numbing the tongue with tastes already experienced. If only one could graps the names, they'd know the thing, yet the ones who were supposed to know tasted only faint portions of an entire experience. Solid steps of a long, sure stride patterned the footfalls of the contemplative; Beathag was a woman of deep thought as her years increased. Nearly forty and one, the last few years had seen her accomplish an capable understanding of Latin so that she didn't need missives from across the sea translated in to either English or Gaelic. She read books on philisophy and history. Still, her tongue was numb with the flavor of foreign affairs, not developed from a mere fledgling tingle for one could only go so far. She wasn't omnipotent. She swore some expected it of her. One of the things she did do well as she came to one of the city's gardens, imparticular the entrance to the Hedge Gardens of Blue Castle, was hold an audience. Tonight she would be meeting with a figure she had not seen in some time (d)
Ahmir Miros
Time had seen the need to foray out through the world, searching over the islands that compromised the world of Skye. His presence and any news of him would find itself scarce, as a part of the reason that the Egyptian even walked the lands of this kingdom was to gather information. A feat that he found out often came by pursuing what was known by those considered the lower class to most nobles, before rising higher within the heirarchy to pick the brains of those beings who created the laws that govern the lands. Maps and landmarks had been sketched of the islands, for his own purposes at the moment. Little knowledge on the subjects he was researching had been found, yet a good deal more had come to him by ways of simply familiarizing himself with this consortium of islands that had found itself a major player in the affairs of the world at large. Finally though, his journeys brought the man of shadowy past and reputation to return to the capital, Turas Lan. Not much time was wasted once returning, before an audience was requested of the Queen, a woman who was quite the interesting person...and who so happened to be Ahmir Miros' greatest asset in this land. It seemed he had found at least enough favor within her eyes to gain the acceptance of such audience requests. As was his habit, Ahmir arrived at the assigned meeting area to case it out an hour before the appointed time. Such behavior held many reasons behind them, not the first of which being the knowledge of the area, and to plan out at least two escape routes should they be needed. The requirement of such was hardly thought to be necessary, given the person he was meeting, yet he preferred to be safe, rather than sorry. After that, it was simply a matter of time and patience. Patience that would eventually come to be rewarded as the figure of the Queen came to be recognized at that garden entrance. Ahmir's cloak would lay over his shoulders, hiding most of his form, as well as what weapons he had brought with him. He did not expect to use them, but once more, better safe, than sorry. Ahmir would not have been waiting by the entrance directly, but in a nice, cozy nook, with just enough cover to allow him to remain inconspicuous, and gave him a perfect field of view. Now though, it was his turn to make his appearance. Walking forward, it would almost appear to her that he had indeed, been waiting for her. "Good evening, My Lady." Offered out with a slight bowing of his head. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
What was it Ahmir sought to gain, what did he stand to lose? It was so strange a man of an ancient country with long standing dynasties,even now with some of it in the hands of Europeans should venture here. Why sacrifice warmth, why care for the tiny bit of Celt states unified in the cold throws of the sea? Did he enjoy being blown on by the North Wind? Beathag wondered these things now in so much as she balanced a sort of interesting appeal the man held. The service received by those whom the rest of Europe were busy in constant Crusade against had proven immense. This was what came with an open mind, religious tolerance, and value of worth not based on the appearance of face. It was not the easiest policy to always maintain, especially when one made Duchies of former enemies but it had been a token of state thus far. Purple, the shade of royalty, blended in well with the dark velvet of the autumn night. She met her person as awaiting in secrecy, as befits his trade. "Good evenin'," replied the subdued brogue for the purpose, "Ye summon me by messange n' continue with secrets. Wot have be been about lately, tis been some time since last we met." She would have looked as if she met a paramour were it not for the addition of trusted guard numbering three that haunted her steps like tall, brewding Norman-Scott ghosts. One was her brother, Caldean, another her nephew Brycean, of the Scotts, and the third was Brom, a norsemen. (d)
Ahmir Miros
For so long had Ahmir been travelling, with trips back to his own homeland being so rare, that the weather that plagued Europe and those countries north of his own, did not seem to bother him quite as much. His first time seeing snow had been interesting. He had gained many a laugh from natives for the layers upon layers he had thrown on. Yet there was always a part of him that would long for the heated sands. So often had he hated the sandstorms that would blow up every so often, and yet now, he would smile to experience one. Such were the longings of home no matter where your life took you. When she spoke, he would have to think that her words were indeed quite true. His life was full of secrets, many of which he would be unable to reveal currently. Though even in their long talks, Ahmir had failed to truly divulge much about himself, as their conversations had revolved around the values and government of Skye, or of religious beliefs and tolerance. He had managed to weave the conversations so thatit never felt as though he were prying, yet information came, even as their conversation remained interesting and varried. Still, his own reasons for being in Skye had been vague, at best when pressed on them. "Forgive such requirements, but I am sure you understand at times, the need for secrets." The presence of those guards would be expected, honestly...there would not be much doubt that a royal would keep an escort outside of the castle walls, unless they were begging to be assassinated that is. "I have been enjoying the great bounty that is Skye. Getting the lay of the land, as it were." He offered a small smile as he mentally weighed out the options on what he could, or should, tell her. After all, she may not like the idea that someone had sent him to her lands to infiltrate and gather information, while seeking out the reason for many the Scottish/Skye ships no longer making it to their destinations in Africa. Granted, he was there to help in that aspect, but it was all interconnected in a manner, which meant that it was also something he had to tip toe around. If not flat out lie. "I have heard rumors though, rumors that I thought perhaps to speak with you privately about." ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"Have ye enjoyed what ye have seen, experienced? Let's be plan sir, Ah'm nay a fool. Either ye are here tae gain fer yerself a place or fer another a word. Otherwise ye would seek me in the day, in the open places all know I keep. I dun nay think yer aggressive in wot ye desire.." The guards looked out towards the stone lions on the steps of Blue Castle just yon, eyes narrowing as if these dealings should be carved in stone for the truth to last all eternity. Fabric shifted around soft black boots as shemoved forward. Her guards remained four steps behind as part of her was half lit by the moon, half shroud in shadow. "Wot is it ye think I can give ye though is the question, n' I believe ye have things fer me as well. Sae let us discuss." With a hand's beckon the guards moved in to follow as she allowed the privelege of moving beside her to the Egyptian. The last trace of the sun was her gold head, a halo now of eerie countenance by shadow and moon. The lighs, like this meeting, were almost an eclipse. It had been hard until late for the ships of Scotland and Skye thus including such as English ships to move around Africa and towards the East through the Strait of Gibraltar. As things may be cooling conflict was still sure to arise. Piracy, privateering, competing interests wouldn't cool as quick as foreign canon fire.(d)
Ahmir Miros
"Indeed, I have." He gave a small smirk to himself when she spoke of not being a fool and wishing to speak plainly. Though as she asked him what it was he thought she could gain him, he let a brow quirk just slightly as he moved to walk in step beside the Queen as she allowed it. So, what did he want to say here, what would he ask for when she wanted to know what it was that he thought her capable of offering him. "True, though in the open places you keep, or in the receiving chamber of your castle, there are perhaps more ears than I prefer to have open to our conversation." He looked out to the sun as it's final rays came to cast their soft golden glow upon them, before the first ebbing of darkness came to take the place of such light. "I believe that there may be a place in Skye that a man such as myself might be beneficial in...and I believe you an intelligent queen, who could perhaps, suggest an area my talents may be best suited." He let that gaze of his shift over to rest upon her once again as he continued to speak. "And what is it you believe that I have to offer you? If we are speaking plainly, My Lady?" He was indeed curious to find out what it was she felt he could bring to the table. Negotiations...sometimes politics sucked, even when plainly spoken. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"Aye, but the walls o' m'castle n' places o' standin have ears, Gods willin' tha' serve their Queen. If nay they are cut down quickly. Sae far ye talents seem secretive n' such places ah would know tae use ye dependin on our conversation but first we must understand one another, fer ah shan't turn ye out tae those places. Secrets guarded,nay tae be gained." She turned a corner, looking at his face which seemed to wear an astute expression. He was by no means a stupid man. She had a feeling even with her guards there could be a substanial physical quarrel if he wished it, with them being a match for one another."Ye have news o' foreign lands tha' we deal with lest ye would nay be behind a quiet hedge maze, sir. Always lookin, always seekin, always with an weathered eye." Things to put on the table, points to consider as each moved their chess pieces around while shuffling feet over garden paths. "Yer either runnin' from somethin or full o' old habit." (d)
Ahmir Miros
He offered a nod of his head when she mentioned how she hoped the ears around her served her. Yet history seemed full of those empires and kingdoms crummbled from within by ears thought to be loyal, and found to serve other masters. It was the way of the world, and a precaution. The queen as intelligent on her own...and the verbal chess games they played were quite challenging enough, than to have another within her walls knowing what business he did lay out between them. While the two would walk, their words flowing, he offered a small smile as he heard her tell him that they would not even be walking those hedges had he not some form of information or such she desired. There was information that he could indeed offer her, and other bits that he would be unable to give quite yet. With the comment that he was either running, or his habits were simply those ingrained from so much time with them. "Perhaps it is a mixture of both." Indeed, there were those habits, which he still used, mainly because he was still doing those same things...yet at the same time, he knew he was trapped in his position. The protection his Order offered of his sisters was all keeping their lands from being attacked again...should he turn away from Egypt and what they wished for him, then his family would be in danger. It was a catch 22 for him. The only thing that would be a saving grace, would be the love of what he did. Assasinations, spying, covertly twisting the chords of power throughout the world...While he hoped and felt that what he did was for the greater good, he could not deny the thrill that came to him as a job was completed...though, there was something here, something about Skye that was different than anywhere else...and it was not only the fact that he'd come to find a personal connection to it through that Greek officer of theirs. "I was an officer in the Egyptian army at one point." In fact, Maahas had been under Ahmir's command for a short time, being brought into the young officer's specialized unit before Ahmir's own path had split away from the Army and led him into the shadows. "My past is very...complicated, as I'm sure most people's is. But my skills and the path the gods had set before me, began there, in explanation, perhaps, as to my habits." It was about the most he'd told of his past to her before now. No doubt though, with her insight and intelligence, she might have an inkling of the turn his life may have taken. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
Kingdoms rose and kingdoms fell, empires rose and empires fell. This was just how time worked and she wagered her own work would one day fall to the wayside save in history books or in Gods willing, the generations that ruled after her unto the end of their house. In the hedge maze worlds met as they spoke of how the world treated them. "An officer in the Egyptian army. I have had several in m'service from the African n' other desert parts o' the world. The King n' I have nary a bias on flesh or bias on culture sae tha' can nay be it or ye wouldn't be standin here. A past is complicated n' perhaps n' time ye will tell me as ye feel comfortable." Nothing ventured nothing gained, but then again if he offered too much he could gain less as was the same with her. It was all a very careful bit of coreography. She figured him for those that worked within her shade of Ebony Talon, the likes of intrigue artist, political masterminds, killers, masters of the social, academic, and miltiary graces. Every level of this had a place for even the lowest man knew something the highest didn't, and vice-a-versa. "Sae now I ask again, wot dae ye want from me? Dae ye wish a place in my service or knowledge as it would pertain tae a question from where ye are from? Perhaps both? Many dae nay come sae far without a question..or seek an audience without a question." She looked at him with a quiet smile, "We can nay dae this till all-hours, I'm nay only a queen, but a wife n' a mother. M'family will grow worried." (d)
Ahmir Miros
He looked forward as Beathag spoke of the diversity of Skye, then that she did not believe that had to do with why he was there. Then, as she mentioned that she would not be able to remain there for long, since she had many responsibilities that weighed upon her, personal as well as otherwise. "Very well. Indeed, there is a question I have. I have found a certain curiosity as to the reasons that so many ships from this set of Islands and Scotland, have been travelling so far as to Egypt. I had heard the issues and rumors of the problems being had with these ships as they tried to travel there." He followed along with her lead, taking the turns when she made them, and now, when he posed his inquiry, he would bring his gaze to her. "In regards to requesting to join your service...I would not be opposed to such, yet...I think we both may have more we would like to know and learn of each other beforehand." He did not know why he wasn't jumping at the possibility of gaining that infiltration position. then again...maybe it would have been too obvious. Or maybe that sense and feeling he had about this place just caused him to second guess himself and his intentions for even an instant. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"The Egyptians have been with their wars, as have other Berber countries at tha' the North o' Africa. I've heard now the wars have come tae a close, but tha does nay mean waters will settle. As before now after the risk o' piracy is high , risk o' e'en allies bein' exploited by alleged privateers with letters o' mark. Squabbles between merchants, these things afore n' after make movement through the strait slow n' the flow of goods delayed. We seek nay tae deprive our allies o' the sands anythin as they would nay seek us, but often times ye haven't a choice unless ye are a god." The answer came in earnest but didn't betray personal things such as ship names, captains, manifests, alliances with whom or how. She looked at him still with intense study. Indeed, many things to know of him. His intentions, for if he doubted she questioned double so came to a point, "If ye are found tae work against the nation's allies ,it could be treason, on two fronts. Hope tha' be nay the case, tis nay worth it. Does nay seem such..but seem n' are, these be two different states." She put her hands behind her back as they moved along (d)
Ahmir Miros
That information about the African countries being at war with one another was not unknown to him, and the rumors of the ships that were sent from here being attacked were believable, and confirmed somewhat by her answer. Of course, there was no detail that was truly offered, other than the fact that they wished to send their goods to their allies in those areas. She of course, continued on to speak, informing him that should he be working against them, he could be charged with treason, which in any country he'd ever been in, had meant death. But that was also something he knew very well, and risked often in his line of work. "Indeed...forgive the curiousity, yet I could not help but wonder...You all have seemed to become quite the focal point of Europe...No doubt many question such a rise...of course, I also can not help but admire what you all have done." He looked over to her, waiting until they would make eye contact, before he glanced back to her guards who tended to walk along within hearing distance, no doubt, just in case of any spoken threats...and because he remained standing so close to their queen. But that look would be a silent request for just a tad bit more privacy. He was about to take a very calculated risk, but one that he would only make to her, with no other's listening in. ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
"Aye, all eyes are turned on us...for admiration or disdain for tha' matter.." Wry smile lifted edges of lips and pulled at the only age sign she had, laugh lines in the corner of her eyes or a slight bit of worry on her brow. The information traded was the sort you could easily obtain at crossroads in any knowing kingdom. Tit-for-tat. A ha-penny for the news. Yet the art of his work and her own former knowledge was that webs were to be woven. Common information taken for exploit or retention for later purpose. At the very least she as honest: whatever agenda he had, if it proved false his head would pay forfeit. Whatever it was she hoped it was worth it. Whatever it was, she truly hoped it didn't work against them. Something told her that Ahmir was conflicted, but of what? He was skilled so she didn't expect him to surrender that without trust. No way each could trust the other beyond a basic. His eyes fell on her retinue to which green eyes followed the line of sight, thus his reasoning. She gave a silent sigh before acknowleding the obvious with a cant of her head to them. Her brother was not fond of this idea. No, none of them were. It wasn't that she couldn't take care of herself but that her guard were supposed to keep her in a position from ever having to. As they receded enough to be deaf, to be obscure, it would be only the pair of them. (d)
Ahmir Miros
He offered a nod as she mentioned the eyes that were upon Skye at the moment. When she came to the same conclusion of his request as was meant, and her guard did slip back just enough to leave them unable to listen in, another measure of trust for Beathag was founded from that particular Egyptian. With his skills, his job, and such distance presented between themselves and her guard, should he wish her harm with the greatest chance of escaping, this would be the moment in which he would have performed such deeds. As his profession, it was hard not to notice and note such things mentally, even when those actions, were not intended. Once their conversation would be unheard by any others, for the main fact that while part of him did trust the Queen, he was not yet to the point of offering up even the same measure of trust Beathag had, to even those of her personal guard, who she trusted with her own life. "Indeed, I can assure you, that there are many eyes set upon your lands. Some, set more closely than perhaps others. The reasons for this attention, in all honesty, I can not say...." Yet he would leave unsaid that often times, if he was sent there, it may not be for the best outcome. The things they wanted from him, the maps and such...they were the same things that could be garnered from any one of the traders as they sailed through. Yet the maps, the drawings, the landmarks, the strategic points that would be offered up by one of Ahmir's like, could be incredibly strategically valuable. So while his presence could be seen as harmless, it's outcomes could be far from it. "It may seem like a trivial piece of information considering everything....but I hope it may be a piece that increases the trust between us, so that at some point, so many secrets might not need to be kept." ~d~
Queen Beathag Aberdeen
Trust was the same as information; nothing ventured, nothing gained meant that both of them would be stuck in a holding pattern. As much as she detested intrigues the woman was not stupid enough to not know how they worked or understand that they would be the undoing of the realm if she did not seek to unravel or tie bonds first. While she waited for Ahmir to speak, she folded the long fingers of her hands by way of the left over the right with the arms coming to rest in the front of her abdomen as they were elongated. He could have killed her but didn't. He could try later - yet something told her he wasn't out for blood at all. "At least ye mention them. Tis a start, sir, n' there be hope tha' more will be later said." It meant that she would need to see agents sent out to borders and the continent at other courts to make sure the turn of eye was favorable. If it was malicious, at least the kingdom would have forewarning. Even to this man whom tried to earn her trust .No doubt they would follow one another's circle for circle. "Ye may have hope."