Desert Siren

Nine

The Raptors stood in a loose circle in front of Tavan, smiles sneaking across their faces. The smiles widened as they listened, jostling each other and whispering under their breath. Normally, he would not tolerate this type of behavior but his conversation with Jayza was fresh in his mind, and he was willing to allow them a little latitude this once. As with every other suggestion, Tavan didn't tell his men it had been Jayza's idea, instead letting them believe he had thought long and hard before making his decision. He made very sure they completely understood that those who occupied his tent had to be on best behavior, that there would be no fighting over who ended up there, and that as soon as they were completely outfitted again, discipline would be reinstated. The men, happy with the idea of finally getting out of the cold, even for a little while, happily agreed.

Jayza didn't care that she wasn't getting any credit. She hadn't been happy with the idea of having a dozen or so men sleeping so close to her. But what she had said about Tavan being all that stood between her and them was the truth. The alternative could end up being much, much worse. As much as she hated to admit it, she needed his protection and right now, that meant continuing to sleep in the same bed as him.

When he announced he was going to implement her recommendations, she had requested he leave her in his tent while he spoke to his men, claiming she might be a distraction. That and she had no desire to be the object of leers and unspoken lewd comments. But her real reason for remaining behind was so she could look through his papers. When he refused, claiming he wanted to make sure she was always within his sight, she hid her disappointment, agreeing quietly and following meekly as he called his men together. Worn down from the constant riding and lack of adequate food or water, she had sunk to her knees at his feet. Something had been niggling at her brain since the Kimsan and she tuned Tavan out, idly picking up handfuls of sand and letting it slide through her slightly open fingers as she chased it down.

Suddenly straightening, she scooped some sand into her hand and ran a finger through it as she inspected it intently. Dumping it back onto the ground, she began digging small holes, carefully laying bits of debris to the side. Several men watched curiously, nudging each other with knowing smiles. Seeing his men's attention being diverted, he called to them sharply, then looked down at Jayza when instead of obeying, every man looked at her instead.

"Jayza," he said sharply. "What are you doing?"

"Finish with your men," she replied absently, continuing to dig. Her pile had grown, an odd assortment of twigs, dried plant matter, dead insects, and a desiccated animal that might have been a mouse at one point. "I'll explain later."

Tavan frowned, then turned back to his men, ordering them to ignore her or forfeit their nightly rations. That got their attention and they turned away, leaving Jayza to her labors. Eventually, she stopped, inspecting her pile as her brows lowered slightly in confusion. Rising, she stood quietly, waiting for him to finish.

"I hope you find my offer acceptable. If you do not, it will be rescinded, and you will be forced to remain sleeping two to a tent" Tavan was almost done and Jayza was pleased to see their faces were more relaxed. Most were smiling broadly and while attentive, it was obvious their love for their Commander had returned. "And Raptors, I mean it when I say no fighting. Half the winners of Pinchka will be allowed in my tent for First Watch, the second half for Second Watch. Anyone who cheats to win or fights over the results will forfeit their slot. To make sure the games are fairly played, the Commanders will observe them as they take place. One Commander will join the winners in my tent, rotating with the other three over two nights. Any questions?" When no one spoke up, he dismissed them, clutching his right fist to his chest.

"Consalto, Golden Eagle!" they cried in unison, raising their right hands in a fisted salute and thumping it on their chests. They then hurried away, eager to receive their assigned opponents and begin the games. Tavan turned to Jayza with an annoyed look.