The flicker of a flame fueled by oil, cast out the darkness of a mudbrick room. The orange ember revealing a dark tanned girl, and her dark tanned mother. Dressed in drab brown tunics, and skirts. The mother drew out a slew of characters on a puddle of sand on the ground, before bringing her hands to her sides and facing her daughter. Alright Inna, now tell me… what does this say?

Inna flicked her hazel eyes over to the string of characters, the gears in her head spinning to life. Steam chugged out of her ears as meaning manifested for each symbol, until a clear picture came into being. A very funny picture.

A slew of chuckles escaped Inna's lips, Mother, I do not think that priestess Ninara would like being called a donkey's behind.

Not even if it's true?

Even if it's true Inna affirmed before adding but that was easy. Give me something that is actually hard.

Inna's mother scrunched up her lips and nodded wearing a playful smirk, Alright. If you want a challenge, then I shall give you a challenge.

The symbols in the sand puddle were scattered amidst the timeless grains, before being replaced with a string of new ones. Here, tell me what this says.

Inna's eyes focused on the new challenge before her, a longer string than before with characters old and new. Melding together to form something new that Inna hadn't seen before.

Her face contorted unknowingly as the gears in her head struggled to turn, her mother watching with intrigue at the expressions that flashed onto her daughter's face. Curiosity, surprise, anger, frustration – it was a never-ending circle that was admittedly fun for her to watch.

The cogs in Inna's mind struggled, and struggled. Blowing out steam just trying to make sense of the characters as presented. Trying to derive meaning from what lay etched into the sand, her veins popping up on her forehead as frustration pounded in her mind. All up to a point until the gears clicked, and the sentence made sense.

They filled her with emotion, and without haste Inna jumped to her feet and lunged at her mother. Tackling her into a sweeping hug, and whispering into her mother's ear I love you too.

Inna's mother smiled as her daughter pulled back, and the girl's mother replied I know.

Inna's gaze lingering on her mother's supple cheeks, and ancient eyes. Eyes that she could get lost in, a veritable sea of knowledge and experience. All the things she had seen, and done that those eyes conveyed.

The escape of a yawn from her lips prompted her mother to say, Alright. That's enough practicing for now. It's time for bed.

But mom Inna protested but a second far louder yawn put a stop that. Given the insistent, and knowing look that her mother gave her, Inna relented and moved over to her reed mat.

Fine, but I want a bed time to story, Inna slid herself onto her flat woven bedding, and swung her legs onto the handmade covering.

Alright, deal, Inna's mother scooted closer to her daughter who looked at her with large expectant doe eyes.

Which one do you want to hear tonight?

The Great Journey.

Inna's mother's shoulders lapsed, Really? But I have already told you that many times now… How about some other story?

But I love that one.

The matriarch rolled her eyes but relented to her daughter's pleading gaze, Alright, so…

The dimly lit browns of the ceiling sank into the shadows, and was replaced with a vast land of dunes, cracked Earth, trees and bushes.

In the beginning our ancestors lived in a vast land of endless desert, a lavish land of fruitful soil, crystalline rivers, and the hardiest plants ever known.

The scene above Inna unfolded with a crashing wave of darkness, unveiling a stretch of rugged sandy hills, littered with plants that sprouted out of the ground. Bursting from green buds, and flourishing into spiky cacti, and leafy trees. Towering over the ground, and piercing the cosmic veil above, past a blanket of stars and a white shining moon.

Inna watched with awe as her mother continued, They lived off the land, like they always had, but it was far from an easy life.

The scene above shifted to a land filled with turmoil, a litany of faceless men and women weathered storms, droughts, and famines galore. Echoing sadness in Inna's heart as she reached out to try, and pull them towards her. Pull them into a better life, but her hand was forever out of reach.

Through hardship they sought solace in their gods, looking to them in trying times for comfort. They never stepped in, but always watched – until one day they finally came down with a proposition.

The heavens split open above Inna, an iridescent doorway that opened in the middle of a pointed column overlooking Inna's ancestors.

From the Anuskal they emerged, and they offered to guide our ancestors to a faraway place, and give them a better life. One free of suffering.

From the ethereal doorway came several titans who towered over the meager mortals, and one of them, an armored man with white heavenly eyes, and a beard made of storms, reach out a hand. Gesturing for the people to follow as lightning cracked across the sky like a whip.

And so they accepted, and went with the gods. Moving through the Anuskal, and being taken to far off lands in search of the blessed lands that were promised.

Inna's eyes briefly moved over to her mother's face, but saw a somber smile on her face. Not one of happiness or wonder, betraying the awe-inspiring tone of her voice.

But before Inna could say something her mother continued, Many followed the different gods through the Anushkal, but our ancestors followed Enlil. And he brought us here, to this land where rivers of iron flow beneath our feet, forests nestle rivers in a bountiful cradle. Keeping our people fed, warmed by the two suns that race across the sky".

The shadows washed out the sight above, and brought forth Enlil's emergence through the Anushkal, with Inna's ancestors emerging behind him. Amazed, and in awe at the vast land before them. Forests in the distance that were boundless, woven with rivers threaded across the land, and cutting through the desert.

And so, ever since. The Anushkal became the center of a shrine built to commemorate our beginnings, and the blessing granted to us by lord Enlil. For bringing us from Kiengir, and all its hardships.

Inna's mother leaned closer and bopped her on the nose, And that's why we priestesses undertake the Great Journey to the Anushkal with offerings to Enlil to show our appreciation for what he has done for us – his humble followers.

Inna giggled as her mother planted a kiss on her forehead and pulled back, Now go to sleep, okay?

Inna nodded before cracking a yawn, Okay…

Her eyes felt heavy, and with no motion to keep them open. She let sleep pull her into the sea of darkness, sinking deeper and deeper into a nice cooling ocean…

…until an ear piercing scream yanked her out.

Inna's eyes darted open, bloodshot as she found herself in a vast crowd. Chaotic murmurs rippling throughout the air with a tangle of arms and legs brushing against her. The smell of sweat, and their slimy skin unbearable.

But even more unbearable was the sight that lay in front of her, far away yet clear as day, was her mother bound to two wooden poles in the heart of the inner circle. The Grand temple behind her, and two royal guards standing on either side. Metal masks of expressionless men with bodies adorned in lustrous silver, and steel carrying staffs with white crystalline point.

This one has committed the cardinal sin! roared the all too familiar voice of their lord, who stood behind Inna's mother like a mountain.

Inna's heart froze, she could feel her blood run cold as Enlil's word cut through the air like a knife through skin.

She stole knowledge from Anu, sacred knowledge not meant for her, and now she must be punished.

A whip of fire was drawn, its flames singing the ground with every minor motion. Inna's heart pounded, her legs pushed forward. Forcing past all the people, and the dense crowd to get to her mother. Nothing else mattered, everyone disappeared leaving only her and her mother in view.

Enlil cast the whip into the air as Inna moved with haste, making long strides with tears welling up. Each step sent a shockwave throughout the ground, a small earthquake as she barreled closer and closer to her mother.

But she wasn't fast enough, and right as she reached for her – the whip came down and struck the matriarch's back. Igniting her body in an explosion of fire, and agony.

Her harrowing scream ripped through the air, and shattered the sky. Splitting the land, and plunging her into darkness.

Ah! Inna exclaimed as she rose up, and was met with a rush of pain as her forehead slammed into the underside of an overhead shelf.

Ow, ow, ow my head Inna bemoaned as she clutched her forehead, and instinctively rolled to the side. Before being met with the cold hard, stony floor.

Inna's groan echoed throughout the air as she rolled around for a bit, before reaching up for leverage and finding the edge of a waist height chest. Inna pulled herself up, and weighed down both arms on the surface. Blowing out a puff of air, and sending the stray locks of black hair skyward.

The room was only slightly dark, thanks to the muffled light that seeped through the seams of the cotton blinds. A cramped space filled with reed baskets, chests often stacked, with shelves carved into the exposed walls. All of which were filled to the brim with fabrics of various kinds.

The tension in her chest dissolved, and Inna let out a sigh now that she could finally be at ease.

'And here I thought I was done with all that' Inna thought as she hung her head low, and wiped away the moisture that clung to the edges of her eyes. A lingering dampness from the night, along with the sweat that trailed from the tangle of vines that was her hair.

After wiping off a splash of sweat from her slightly glossy forehead, the girl sniffed it and winced. The stench smacked her nose, and threatened to strangle it if she didn't pull back her hand.

Note to self, visit the bathhouse when I have time Inna said to herself as she walked over to the one and only window that the room had. It was right next to her bed, a reed mat sitting on a chest nestled between a column of wall shelves and a stack of chests.

Parting the blinds, Inna banished the darkness into the room's corners and took in the sight of a vast stretch of buildings that went on forever. The furthest edge consisting of a faint line that curved from side to side – the large wall which kept the city safe from the dangers that lay beyond.

In the violet sky that bled into blue as the first sun burned through the sky, while the second sun merely poked its head out from the horizon. Two brothers caught in a never ending race to bring about the day.

The distance between them meant that her day was about to start, and that meant going through a monotonous laundry list of chores as per usual. I cannot wait… Inna muttered before letting out a sigh, and rubbing one of her eyes.

The door to the room pounded, hammered away by someone who Inna recognized from the grating voice that echoed through the wood. Inna wake up! I need some red wool so wake up!

Inna sighed and snapped her head towards the door, I am awake Ninesh!

Her words failed to persist in the face of Ninesh's intense door pounding, Wake up you sleeping ox! I need some red wool, and I need it now!

Inna glared at the door, I ALREADY TOLD YOU THAT I AM AW- Nevermind…

Inna rubbed her temples before making a beeline towards the door, deciding that trying to be heard through Ninesh's knocking would have been pointless.

The whole room was built like a maze, not by design but by happenstance. Navigating was easy when she first moved in, her tiny form made it a breeze to slip past the narrow gaps. But now it seems that time has made that increasingly difficult, requiring some finessing in order to slide her lanky yet taller frame through the spaces.

The knocking was beginning to rattle Inna's ears as she reached the door, and opened it. Catching Ninesh mid-knock, About time you woke up.

The taller girl looked down at Inna as she brought down her hand, dressed in a colorful shirt and knee-length skirt. Each ruffle a wonderful tapestry of blue waves, and black ox horns repeating all around.

I was awake when you first started knocking Inna said with her teeth clenched while wearing a smile.

Ninesh scoffed, I think I would know if you were awake.

'Somehow I really doubt it' Inna thought.

So, red wool?

Inna raised up an index finger, Give me a second. She dipped back into the room slipping through the tiny pathways with mild difficulty before reaching the column of wall shelves where the red wool was kept. All the way on the top shelf.

Inna sighed as she got to work climbing up to the top, one hand after the other she scaled the shelves like a monkey. Reaching the last shelf, and plucking out the roll of red wool before climbing back down and returning to Ninesh.

Here Inna said as she offered the red wool which Ninesh swiped out of her hand, and clutched within her grasp.

Hmph. Did you get this from the top shelf? Ninesh asked as she eyed the wool roll judgmentally.

Where else?

You got it really fast, it has to have been on one of the bottom shelves. You probably moved it to make it easy – if Lady Nisaba found out that you did that…

What can I say? I am really good at climbing, but I guess that might be hard for someone who sits on her butt all day doing nothing to understand, Inna shrugged with a blasé expression.

Ninesh glowered at Inna, looking down with her arms by her side, stretched to their limits, digging her fingers into the red wool roll. In response, Inna grinned and made sure that Ninesh saw every inch of it.

Seeing as Ninesh's angry eyes were having zero effect on Inna, the taller girl straightened up and huffed. I guess I shouldn't be surprised, must be the benefits of being cursed.

Inna's left eye twitched as Ninesh took off, she watched the taller more colorful girl walk away. Her infernal gaze not once wavering from Ninesh as she turned right.

Inna closed her eyes and sighed, letting go of the frustration. It was an exercise in futility anyway, and so Inna stepped out of the storage closet that had been her home since she was 7.

But before she could take her next few steps, Inna heard the aggravating voice of Ninesh call from the distance saying Oh and you might want to take a bath – you smell like a dead dog.

The scurrying of feet scuttled beneath her, alongside the distant cacophony of voices that so often bounced around in the rooms where the seamstresses worked. The walls were far from thin, but the sheer volume of the rowdy girls below made the thickness of the walls a moot point.

After rolling up a large clump of blue fabric around a wooden dowel, and placing it next to several others just like it. Inna decided to take it upon herself to have a tiny break, and plant her ears on the ground. Sneaking a glance into a world she was never privy to.

It was a sea of shifting voices, words crashing into one another leaving a lot up to the imagination. But by closing her eyes, Inna could start to hear droplets of words that managed to stay intact – surviving the chaotic symphony and making their way into her ears.

There was mention of something yet to happen, something involving movement, and Inna latched on like a leech. Pressing her head even harder against the ground, as if that would somehow improve her hearing. But try as she might, even after closing her eyes, she couldn't tease apart what it is that the weavers were on about.

Nevertheless, they were very excited about it – whatever it was.

Inna! exclaimed a voice from behind, startling the girl and sending her jumping onto her feet.

Lady Nisaba Inna replied as she spun on her heel, and stiffened to try and look composed and not at all suspicious.

Lady Nisaba, a tall but significantly older woman. Strikingly darker skinned, with her long hair tied back into a bun, she marched up to Inna with regal strides. Her long flowing skirt draping past her ankles, weaving a tapestry of purples and reds depicting a mystical desert. She towered over Inna, glowering at her with black coals for eyes, How many times have I told you not to eavesdrop!

She grabbed Inna's ear and yanked her forward, That it's a bad habit and I will be punished for it by the gods.

Exactly Lady Nisaba said as she let go of Inna's ear, allowing the girl to cup the aforementioned ear and reel in pain, flashing a look of annoyance at the older woman, who put her hands on her hips.

Now, I need you to go out and get some supplies. The kitchen is running low on supplies. I need you to go out and get two sac's of onions, four loaves of bread, and four legs of lamb Lady Nisaba said as she handed Inna a sack of coins.

Inna blinked, All of that, by myself?

The other servants are all busy with their own duties. So you'll need to pick up the pace.

Inna groaned while tucking the coin sack in-between the waist belt of her skirt as the lady of the house snapped, Do not take that tone with me young lady. Be thankful that you at least have a home in the inner circle.

Inna let out a sigh and nodded, before Nisab turned around and walked towards the door. But not before glancing back and saying, "And when you have time, go visit a bathhouse. You carry the smell of death.

Inna watched the woman leave, mouthing her last words in a mocking tone before scoffing.

Leaving the confines of the storage closet behind, Inna ran down the stone steps leading to the ground floor before making a beeline for the front door – when the door to the weaver's room passed on by. Glancing up, it was obvious that this was the room she was spying into earlier, and there was no one else around right now so…

'Just a quick eavesdrop and that's it' Inna thought before slinking over to the wooden door, and planting her ear on its surface.

The sounds were clearer, but they were still all jumbled up. More focus was needed, and so Inna closed her eyes to hone in on the words. Amidst the churning sea of noise, Inna found herself jumping from current to current in search of meaning within the discordant depths.

There were whispers between the crashing waves of an event, an arrival of some sort. But the question was, who? Who was coming, and why? Why was it so important that the sowing girls were all a buzz like lovesick puppies with their hearts a flutter over some boy?

She pressed her ear harder against the door, eyes squeezed even tighter as all other noises were drowned out. Bringing out the ones which mattered.

There was no specific mention of a person, or number of people. Just a group, that's it. A group of people, but nothing about who was in that group. Much less why they were important enough to be excited about.

'Maybe they're a bunch of nobles…' Inna mentally surmised, though that only served to stoke her confusion further. After all, why would cushy self-entitled nobles want to leave the comforts of their lavish life to go anywhere else? Much less in groups? It just didn't make much sense, no matter what way she spun it.

The quandaries swirled in her head like a puzzling twister, each mystery sparking new ones and pulling her along for the ride. Until the door slammed open, and sent Inna stumbling onto her rear.

Idyllic giggles cut short as Inna rubbed her butt, and winced in pain before coming face to face with a gaggle of quiet stares. Seamstresses, all of them echoing a vast set of colors from red to purple. Once Inna's face was chewed, and processed by the onlookers. Many began to shift towards mocking whispers with one of the girls casting a familiar and concerned expression onto Inna.

My, my… began the eldest of the group, walking over to Inna and towering over the fallen servant. A girl with long luscious black hair that draped gently past her shoulders, framing her supple light brown face and intricately woven shirt, and skirt. Where lions, and bulls danced across a dreamy land of jagged hills that stretched around the fabric from top to bottom.

'Oh great…' Inna thought as the raven haired girl looked down on her, an ivory crescent adorning her face.

Look girls, we have a filthy pig at our doorstep.

Nemru… Inna muttered under her breath as giggles echoed from behind Nemru.

'Why did this have to be the room she was in' Inna thought as she dusted off her skirt, and slowly got back onto her feet.

What did Lady Nisaba say about shoving your giant nose where it does not belong? Nemru asked playfully as she walked around Inna, circling her like a lion studying its prey.

I was just passing through when you opened the door. And by the way, if you open every door like that. You are bound to hurt someone, be glad that I was not Lady Nisaba because otherwise… Inna chuckled, I am sure she would have some choice words for you.

And just like that, Inna managed to poke the lion and the lion lashed out.

Nemru put her hands firmly on Inna's shoulders from behind, and leaned in close. Her head sitting on one of Inna's shoulders Nemru said, You know, I wonder why you keep trying to listen in on us, but maybe it's because… deep down, you wish you could sit with us and weave. Instead of running errands, and burning yourself out each and every day.

Nemru then slinked around to move in front of Inna, looking up in thought and saying flippantly Oh but, why can you not weave? Why be a servant?

She then turned her malevolent gaze onto Inna and grinned, The daughter of a priestess should have the luxury to right?

Inna's heart skipped a beat, tension burning in her hands as Nemru continued, Oh… that's right. She broke our one sacred law, and cursed your entire bloodline.

Nemru, that's enough said the concerned girl from before, moving out of the flock of likeminded weavers and in front of Nemru and Inna. She mirrored Inna's height, and age but had far longer hair.

'Nanesh…' Inna thought as she watched Nemru, and Nanesh engage in a fierce staring contest. Neither one backing down, stuck in a near eternal standstill until Nemru finally backed down.

Hmph, whatever Nemru said as she brushed past the two girls, but stopping to sniff the air and remark I would not want to deal with a dying oxen anyway…

Inna mockingly mouthed Nemru's last words as she walked away, while Nanesh closed the door to the weaving room.

She let out a sigh and said, You are welcome by the way. Turning around and planting her back against the door, hands crossed over her chest. Highlighting the face of a goat who's long, spiral horns stretched out across her chest becoming the branches of an extravagant tree.

Thanks… Inna replied meekly.

Inna, how many times do you plan on getting yelled at by Lady Nisaba for eavesdropping?

I have no idea what you are talking about, I was merely passing by.

Nanesh quirked a brow, Really? That is what you are going with?

Inna nodded, "Yup. That is my story, and I am sticking to it.

Nanesh sighed, Just… try not to get caught? I cannot keep bailing you out like this…

Inna smiled wryly, I can try.

Nanesh rolled her eyes, and opened the door behind her before slipping back into the room from which she'd emerged.

'At least not everyone in this place hates me' Inna thought before turning on her heel and getting on with her day.

The blistering heat hit Inna as she moved past crowds of people, not giving them the chance to linger on her form. For one, so she didn't have time to bathe in the heat that'd already taken its toll on her, and also to not give the people a chance to properly take the time to whisper indignant comments under the guise that she wouldn't know – when in fact she always knew. It was impossible not to, with how they'd huddle together, and turn their backs to her. As if not being able to see their faces made their deeds invisible to her, a profoundly stupid belief in Inna's eyes.

A couple sharp turns, and a brisk skip down a narrow alleyway and Inna arrived at a bevy of market stalls all lined up from one end to the other. Men, and women of various ages and heights all perusing and buying everything from fruits to ceramic bowls and reed baskets.

Inna slinked past several folks, and over to one particular stall near the left end of the market. A place that was lined with vegetables in baskets, and brown sacs all filled to the brim. Their smells stinging Inna's nose like usual, the onions in particular being a proverbial punch to the face.

The man behind the stall, a skinny elder who's more bone than muscle. Sat on a wooden stool, eating a whole onion as though it was an apple.

Hello Lugula Inna greeted as the man tore a chunk out of his onion, and looked at Inna with a smile.

Inna, good morning.

Inna glanced up at the sky, noticing the two suns further from the horizon, their distance between one another signaling that the afternoon was upon her.

The morning is long gone now, Lugula.

Lugula blinked before looking up at the sky and taking a contemplative bite out of his onion, So it is… Turning his attention back onto Inna, the old man asked so what does that old hag want from me this time?

Inna lightly chuckled, She is not a hag… not completely.

Of course she is Lugula began as he brought up his hand and listed out all the characters that defined a hag. She is old, annoying, and bossy. The definition of a hag.

Inna struggled to find a tangible defense against Lugula's points save for one, But she is not mean… or unnecessarily mean…

Lugula shrugged, Semantics. Anyways, whatcha need kid?

I need two whole sacs of onions.

Lugula blinked, Two whole sacs.

Inna nodded, Two whole sacs.

Lugula eyed Inna up and down, She expects you to carry them both by yourself?

Inna uttered a dry and drawn out laugh, Apparently…

Definitely a hag Lugula said before nodding resolutely, and standing up to get Inna what she asked for. Each bag was hefty, and kicked up loose grains of sand into the air when they were dropped onto the ground at Inna's feet.

They matched Inna's height, and Inna could already feel the exhaustion bearing down her shoulders.

Good luck Lugula said as Inna gave the man some coins for the onions, before turning towards the two large sacks with dower eyes.

She had no idea how she managed to carry both all the way to the bread stall, both slung over her shoulders, and pushing down with the weight of the world. She hunched her way over to where the plump, scraggly old woman sold her bread. A perpetual frown etched onto her face as she flicked a harsh gaze onto Inna.

Two loaves of bread Inna demanded strenuously while wearing a hard smile, her spine struggling to keep it together under the tremendous weight of the onions.

The woman picked up two loaves that were wrapped in large leaves, and handed them to Inna dismissively in exchange for coin. After that was the legs of lamb, and on the way back Inna looked more like a pack mule than a peasant girl. Though for most of the people around her, the distinction between the two was only skin deep.

'My legs are killing me' Inna thought as she trudge forward with each, and every step. The people around her, the looks, it all disappeared as she focused on getting back to Nisaba's house, and suppressing the symphony of pain that her muscles orchestrated.

So blinding was it that Inna didn't notice that someone was running in her direction. Someone who crashed head first into Inna, and sent her falling back first onto the ground.

She groaned and rolled onto the side, before slowly getting back up with one foot in front of the other.

Hey, watch where you are going! Inna exclaimed as she turned around and looked at all the things she had carried now laying on the ground. Dreading having to pick them up all over again.

Frustrated, Inna looked at the one who caused her all this grief, before coming face to face with a bright eyed dark skinned gal in a plain dress as plain as her own. She marched right into Inna's face, her eyes inches away from Inna's own – her abrupt appearance forcing Inna back.

'Ah!' Inna thought as the long haired girl, who looked about Inna's age, gasped and said, Oh gods, I am soooo sorry. Here, let me help.

Yeah, you better… Inna replied as she watched this other girl pick up the bread, and lamp off the ground.

Scrunching her lips, Inna walked over and swiped the bread and lamp from the girl and then gestured with a foot to the two sacks.

No way, I cannot lift that!

You want to help? Then pick those up.

The girl looked at the two sacks and frowned for a second, before gasping and saying fine. But only if you show me around the town afterwards.

Inna blinked, What?

Show me around town, and I will carry the… potatoes?

Onions.

Ew, fine. I will carry the sacks of… onions, if you show me around after.

Inna stared at the girl, all while wondering 'who the heck is she?'

Promise?

Inna glanced over at the onions, the pain of carrying them still fresh in her mind, and so she sighed and relented. Alright, fine. I will show you around, but only after you help me carry those.

The girl beamed with pride, rivalling the radiance of the twin suns. Deal she said as she walked over to one of the sacks, and hefted them onto one of her shoulders with great difficulty. Even more so than Inna ever did. The visible struggle, and strain made Inna briefly reconsider her proposition. But in the end she managed, perpetually teetering on the edge of collapse.

Gods these are heavy! How big are these onions?! she exclaimed as she hobbled over to Inna, before following her lead and helping her out.

"Regular sized.

Nope. No way, these have to be way larger…

Inna smirked slightly, looking down at the girl who shuffled beside her with her posture hunched over and her arms looped around the sacks.

By the way, my name is Nimena. What is yours?

Inna blinked before staring at Nimena with a quirked brow, studying her face to make sure that she was being serious. And given the confused, and expectant look she gave. Inna figured, that against all odds, her request was genuine.

My name is Inna.

Cool name, I like it. It's short, sweet, and rolls off the tongue.

'Who is this girl?' Inna thought a second time as she led Nimena over to Nisaba's house, a two story building with intricately carvings embedded into the exterior walls. Depicting oxen, and lions all bowing to the deplorable figure of their ruler, and god.

Nimena has beyond glad to finally relinquish the sacks onto the ground, right outside the kitchen which she tried to go into but was barred from by Inna. Something about only the weavers, and lady of the house being the only ones allowed in.

Something Nimena, much to Inna's deepening confusion, didn't understand.

That is stupid she bemoaned with her hands on her hips as Inna blinked, and sighed.

Well that is how it is… Inna said, while silently agreeing with the girl as she hollered into the kitchen, I have brought the onions, lamb and bread.

Not a second later, and the chef of the kitchen emerged. A tall, and burly woman with plain clothing worn out of necessity than style, older than Inna with enough age to rival the lady of the house. She didn't bat an eye at Inna as she scooped up all that she and Nimena brought, but after tossing the two sacks of onions over each shoulder. She cast a curious gaze onto Nimena who smiled sheepishly.

The chef retreated back into her kitchen, and got to work making lunch for the seamstresses.

So, how do you eat? Is there another place for the servants?

Inna's face contorted in confusion, What? No, we just… get called up to the kitchen entrance and given a plate each.

Nimena looked aghast, That is terrible.

Inna looked dumbfounded, requiring a good face rub to get rid of all the shock from the cheeks of her face.

Okay, who are you?

Nimena grinned toothily and grabbed Inna's hand, You want to find out? Then show me around.

Inna didn't have time to protest before being dragged out the door.

They charged past people, bobbing and weaving like a needle finely threaded across a soon-to-be skirt.

Okay, okay. Slow down, can we at least talk about where you want to go first?

Nimena screeched to a halt with Inna crashing into her back, before stumbling back while clutching her nose in pain.

Oh, sorry again.

Inna waved it off and uttered a muffled, It's fine.

Okay Nimena replied carelessly before spinning around, eyes scanning her surroundings thoughtfully.

Thanks for the concern… Inna muttered dryly before pulling her hands away from her nose, and watching Nimena glance around like a kid visiting an oasis for the first time.

An odd flower in a sea of sand.

Hmmm… Nimena began when her stomach growled and she grinned, I am hungry, let us go get something to eat!

Inna blinked, But I am out of coins…

Nimena's smile widened, pulled apart by invisible wicked hands, Who said anything about paying?

Inna blinked, but before she could respond. Nimena grabbed her, and pulled her along, all the way back to the market where food was always plenty. At the far end were the market stalls where food was cooked on fire pits, and served to anyone able to pay.

"Nimena", Inna tried to stop the bouncy girl but she was too slick for her to intercept. Leaving Inna behind to slink past a couple that were just about to exchange a handful of coins for two sticks of grilled pork…

…that wound up not in the couple's hands but Nimena's.

Oh gods… Inna muttered as Nimena ran off with the two pork sticks, the couple watching, pointing, and shaking their collective fists in anger.

Give that back you little demon!

Try and catch me you old fart, Nimena taunted as she took advantage of Inna's momentary daze and put a grilled pork stick in her hand.

Someone call the guards!

Those two stole our food!

Inna blinked, Wait, hold on I did not…

Nimena flashed Inna a smirk and said, I think we should run.

The man of the couple had managed to flag a city guard from the other end of the market and was explaining their situation, all while the wife pointed at Inna and Nimena, guiding the guardsmen's gaze over to the two girls.

Yeah, I think that would be a good idea right about now…

Nimena grabbed Inna's free hand, and grinned before taking off. Taking a bite out of her pork stick and hitting the road with Inna in tow.

The girls ran down busy streets, bobbing and weaving through crowds of people with a city guardsmen hot on their tail. But it quickly became apparent to Inna that Nimena didn't have a clue on where to go, because despite her insistent warnings, Nimena took them down a wrong turn and wound up facing a dead end.

I told you! Inna exclaimed as Nimena glanced around frantically for any means of escape. Panic coursing through her veins as her eyes flicked around from wall to wall, scanning the three buildings that boxed her into a corner.

I am sorry! I panicked.

Of course you did Inna muttered as she quickly processed her surroundings.

There were two buildings on either side, and only one of them had a door facing them. The windows were too small for Inna, and by the looks of it, too small for Nimena as well to crawl through. One of many moments when Inna cursed having a larger, older frame.

However, through one of the windows Inna could see several potted plants scattered about in bundles. Upon taking a closer look, and peering through Inna's nose was hit with a blend of strong spices that wrinkled her nose. The warm and nutty smell of Sibitum, the crisp scent of Korin, the sharp gut wrenching stench of Garra, the woody smells of Usu, Zur, and Kusu all blending into an acrid yet strangely pleasant concoction.

They were all plants that an apothecary would be known to carry, which then parked a realization. 'Wait a minute…' Inna thought as she scoured the building's interior and found a painting hanging against the wall, depicting a lion carrying a branch, from which grew an ornately branched tree.

It was a painting she'd seen many times before, and a quick glance at the twin suns above clarified that the woman who lived here was still inside her delightfully noxious abode.

They went this way! announced the distant voice of one of the guards as Nimena panicked.

We have to go, now! Nimena said as she grabbed onto Inna's hand and tried to pull her away only for Inna to not budge. But before Nimena could ask why, Inna moved to the door and began pounding on it – hard.

Healer Azuru! Healer Azuru! Its Inna, Lady Nisaba sent me its urgent!

Not a second later, the door swung open and facing Inna and Nimena was a tall, skeletal woman. Spindly arms and legs that were hidden behind a long tattered robe that touched the ground and hid her feet. A river of somber blue running from her shoulder to the ground, alongside were fish, dogs, and vines that followed the stream to whatever oasis lay ahead.

What is it child? Is the good lady sick or is it one of the other girls?

Inna heard the sound of approaching footsteps, and without further notice. Dashed into Azuru's home along with Nimena, and closed the door behind her.

Azuru simply watched Inna and Nimena come barging in, with Inna breathing out a sigh of relief. Nimena, meanwhile, took one sniff and covered her nose. The smells flying into her nose and attacking every inch with divine determination. She tried to go back outside on instinct, but Inna stopped her and glared into submission. Then they both tensed when they heard a knock on the door.

The antics of the two girls of comparable age brought a smirk onto the healer's face, the sea of wrinkles on around stretching apart to the whims of her mouth as she spied the pork sticks in the two girl's hands.

We are city guards and we demand that you open the door!

Inna looked pleadingly at Azuru, clasping her hands together with her pork stick in-between and taking the form of a beggar. Nimena joined in, mirroring Inna but with one arm wrapped perpetually around her nose.

Azuru let out a sigh and gestured for them to become scarce, which they did with Inna leading Nimena over to the kitchen where they hugged the wall on either side of the doorway.

Azuru went and opened the door, coming face to face with two guardsmen. Taller than her, and far stronger. Muscular, broad, men carved out of mountains and brought to life with the magic of the gods. They were clad in leather armor that poked out from between gaps in their sandy rags. Each one carrying a wooden staff with a pointed metal tip on one end.

No doubt the image of strength, yet they lacked the constitution to stomach the smells that churned inside. For one whiff and the both cringed. Taking a step back while covering their noses with the cloths they wore.

This is Azuru, and to what do I owe this visit?

The two guards blinked and glanced at one another, slightly tense as the one on the left faced the healer to say, I apologize for our earlier tone healer Azuru. But we were giving chase to two thieves who stole from a couple and we saw them last coming into this alley. You would not happen to have seen them have you?

Azuru creaked her head up to glance at the ceiling, and brushed the underside of her saggy chin with a bony finger. Hmmm… I am afraid I did not, she brought her eyes back onto the guards and smiled with a floral innocence.

The guards glanced at one another, conflicted on how to proceed, Azuru could tell they were debating whether to enter her home and brave the smells or take her word for it and walk away.

Feel free to come in if you would like, but I must warn you. I have some seeds in the kitchen I just brought back from being dried out and they have a… particularly rich scent.

The two guards finally sighed and relented, Sorry to bother you, healer Azuru. They both bowed, and made tracks. Leaving the healer as she closed the door.

Nimena came running out of the kitchen with Inna running behind her, Nimena wait!

Oh gods, I am not staying in there… What is even making that smell? Nimena asked as she turned to face Inna and added, And how are you so okay with all of this?

My, my… I did not think that you of all people would turn to thievery Inna, how very bold of you, Azura turned to face Inna and her new friend. Her smile unwavering as Inna looked at her sheepishly.

Thank you for covering for us.

Ah, it was nothing. After all, it is the duty of the elders to watch over the youth of tomorrow, Azura's eyes jumped to Nimena and her exuberant form trying to cover her nose and choke down her disgust.

And it seems that you made a friend… the source of your new boldness perhaps?

Inna sighed and said, Not by choice.

Can we go now? If I stay here any longer I am pretty sure I will pass out Nimena complained as Inna lightly glared at her.

Nimena! You can you not stand to be a little more respectful?

Nimena shrugged, It smells bad and that is the truth.

Inna sighed a second time and turned to face the healer, Please forgive her. She is… weird.

Nimena uttered a muffled huffed in response to Inna's words as Azura lightly chuckled, Its fine, you know I have never cared for saving face. She brandished her collection of faded whites, and missing teeth. Cheerful in demeanor, while her wide smile cast a creepy shadow with the disheveled state of her dental hygiene.

But I think its best if you two head on out, I think your new friend is on the verge of passing out Azura said as she opened the door and let the two girls out. Nimena ran out first followed by Inna, who stopped right by the door to tell the healer one final, Thank you.

Azura nodded and smiled softly before watching Inna head out. The door closed, Nimena gasped heavily and fell to her knees. Oh glorious air, how I missed you so! she proclaimed while gulping down massive amounts of air as though she'd been drowning before.

Talk about being dramatic Inna remarked as she walked up next to Nimena, finally deciding to take a bite out of her pork stick.

What is dramatic is you not being affected by all those smells, what do you not have a nose or something?

Inna smirked and shrugged, Maybe. Or maybe not.

Nimena sighed as she got back onto her feet, and dusting off the edges of her skirt.

Swallowing, and tearing out another chunk of her forcefully borrowed pork stick. Inna walked around to face Nimena and asked, Alright, I showed you around. Now I will go home, but it was nice meeting you… Inna thought otherwise as she spun around to march out of the alley when Nimena brought her to a stop by clinging to her arm.

No… There is still so much I have not seen yet!

Inna trudged forward for a bit before finally coming to a stop, Nimena weighed her down considerably and had held onto her with a tight grip. Ugh… you are not going to let me go until I say yes right?

Yup Nimena replied while popping the 'P'.

Inna let out a groan and sighed, Fine.

Nimena let go of Inna's arm an threw her arms into the air, Yay!

But… Inna began as she pointed her pork stick at Nimena who blinked, No more stealing or drawing unnecessary attention to ourselves. Got it?

Nimena nodded, You got it before taking a bite out of her pork stick. Ripping out a chunk of the pork that up until now, she hadn't had the chance to taste. Mmmm… this is really good…

Inna nodded in agreement before taking a bite out of hers as well, the blend of spices infused directly into the meat adding a delectable kick to the crunchy meat.

The two stood there, outside the healer's home, devouring their pork sticks in a mutually savored silence. Once the pork in their stolen sticks were gone, they were discarded as Nimena wiped her mouth using the collar of her tunic.

Alright, now where do you want to go next? Inna asked as she put her hands on her hips.

Nimena looked around while rubbing her hands off the sides of her skirt, just then the heat bearing down on her made itself known when she wiped a bead of sweat off her forehead and sniffed the back of her hand. It sent a shivers across her entire body as she yanked her hand away from her nose, Gods, I smell awful… and you probably do too.

Hey.

Nimena gasped, Oh, I know where we can go next! A bathhouse!

Really? A bathhouse?

Nimena nodded frivolously, I have never been in a bathhouse before, so I want to see what its like to be inside one!

Inna closed her eyes and nodded before darting them open, Wait, what?

Nimena grabbed Inna's arm, and like before she dragged her off. To the bathhouse!

Nimena dragged Inna out of the alley and off to the right, until Inna exclaimed that she was going the wrong way. At which point Nimena turned around and went in the opposite direction.

Hold on, what do you mean you had never been in a bathhouse before? How is that even possible? Inna questioned as Nimena kept quiet. Humming rather loudly so as to drown Inna's words in the drifting melody.

'And now she is avoiding the question' Inna thought as she was dragged along down the road all the way to the bathhouse.

One of many found all across the city behind its inner, and outer walls. A rectangular building with a flat roof like every other building. It was single story, but wider and longer than its neighbors.

There were men, and women heading inside and coming out. All drab, and dull like Inna and Nimena. Not a speck of color to be found. Outside stood two guards, holding their staffs to their side standing still. Unwavering against the blistering heat.

Nimena charged inside, pushing past a couple who were forced to move aside to make way. Annoyance flashing onto their faces as Inna offered them a fleeting sorry before disappearing inside.

Okay, now where? Nimena asked as she finally came to a stop and looked at Inna like a lost puppy.

There were two doorways that were covered up by curtains, and each one was watched over by a city guard. However, one was guarded by a man and the other a woman. Not slender and regal like the seamstresses, but large and powerful like all the other city guards.

This way Inna said as she led the way, guiding Nimena through the doorway guarded by the female guard and into a spacious area where they were greeted with the sight of shelves carved into mudbrick walls and women of varying ages in the process of disrobing.

And here we are. The bathhouse Inna said as she gestured to her surroundings with a bored cadence. So tell me, is it everything you… Inna began as she looked at Nimena and blinked, Nimena, what are you doing?

Nimena had covered her eyes with her hands, They are naked she loudly whispered.

Yeah, that is kind of the point… it's a bathhouse.

I know but…

Inna turned to face Nimena and tilted her head to the side, eyeing the girl with a curious smirk.

on second thought, maybe we could go somewhere el-"

Inna grabbed Nimena's hand and pulled it away from one of her eyes, forcing her to face her new reality as the servant girl dragged her deeper into the bathhouse. Flipping the script as she pulled Nimena over to one of the empty shelf's.

Inna, what are you doing?!

You were right earlier, I do smell awful Inna said as she came to a stop in front of a shelf and took off her shirt before stuffing it into the shelf. Nimena stiffened as though she'd seen a ghost as Inna slipped out of her skirt and threw it into the shelf next to her tunic.

Alright, now its your turn Inna said as she put her hands on her hips, and looked expectantly at Nimena.

"I uh… um… Nimena snapped her eyes to the ground, and started fiddling with her fingers.

Come on, we do not have all day.

Maybe I can go into the bath like this?

Inna chuckled before thinking 'she really has not been in a bathhouse before…' A feat that seemed virtually impossible for a girl as blandly dressed as Nimena.

Fine, suit yourself. I on the other hand, am going to go and wash up.

Nimena looked up and at Inna as she walked past her, Wait, you are just going to leave me?

If you do not want to come, then there is nothing I can do to make you.

That was a lie on Inna's part, but seeing how Nimena squirmed put a smile on her face. 'That's for putting me on the wrong side of the law' she thought while glancing back to the other girl. Standing halfway to the set of curtains that separated the bath proper from the changing area.

Nimena closed her eyes tight, and scrunched up her lips. Puffing her cheeks up like a balloon as Inna turned around to get a better look at what was going on. Tension welled up to Nimena's face, and for a second it looked like her head was about to explode when finally, with a great deal of effort. She pulled off her shirt, and skirt and shoved them into the same shelf where Inna's clothes were.

D-Do not leave me! I am coming too Nimena declared as she marched over to Inna, her form moving like a girl made out of sticks.

Inna grinned and nodded, Alright, let's go.

The bath portion of the bathhouse was a large pool with damp ledges, the water was a desirably cool shade of blue that sucked the heat from the moment Inna and Nimena stepped into its embrace. All around them were flocks of women, both young and old, chatting away, or simply relaxing and beating the heat. Nimena had loosened up since hitting the water, but there was still a tension that flowed beneath her skin. Inna could tell as much given how rigid she looked as she dumped a bowl of water onto her head. The water crashed down past her shoulders, and hair before some measure of life returned to Nimena's bones. Shuddering, and blinking as she gasped for air and brushed aside several strands of hair.

So, what did you mean earlier when you said that you had never been to a bathhouse before? Inna asked as she scooped up some water using the bowl.

Uh… well…, Nimena looked down at her own wavy reflection as Inna dumped water onto her head. Her entire body freezing as the water enveloped her for a moment.

Nimena perked up and turned around to face Inna sending tiny waves on all sides, What about you? Where do you live? Is it with your parents?

Inna flinched as her grip on the bowl tightened, I uh… I live with Lady Nisaba, the head seamstress at House Enam.

Ooh, how exciting. Is it exciting? I would not know, never lived in a house of weavers before.

It's mostly boring…

And your parents?

Inna frowned and looked away, They… are not with us anymore.

Oh…

A somber darkness befell the two girls as Nimena tried to think of something else to keep themselves distracted. But it was Inna who was able to dispel the growing gloom, What about your parents?

Nimena smiled sheepishly in response before swiping Inna's bowl, scooping up some water, and dumping it on her head. She then shook off the excess water that clung to her hair, and smirked before marching off to where the stone stairs rose out of the pool. Alright, I am cooled off now. Let's go somewhere else.

Inna pursed her lips, this was the second time that Nimena had decided to be deflective about her background. She was clearly hiding something, and Inna was going to get to the bottom of it.

Oh no, not yet, Inna latched onto Nimena's right hand, and held her back. Not until you tell me something about yourself.

What is there to tell? I think I made it pretty clear the kind of girl I am.

Yeah, the kind that steals food from people and ropes others into their schemes.

Exactly, so let us just…

But I know nothing about your life, who you are while you know a bit about mine. So, I am not letting you leave until you answer at least one question of mine.

A loud, and deeply frustrated growl squeezed out of Nimena's pinched lips. Alright, fine. But can we get out of here first? Once we are out, I will answer whatever questions you have.

Inna sighed, Fine, but you better.

Nimena nodded and the two left the bath. They dried off using the towels that were plentiful in the changing area, and after slipping back on their clothes and heading out. Inna had just turned to face Nimena to ask her one pressing question, when Nimena up and bolted.

Oh come on! Inna exclaimed as Nimena ran like the wind, with Inna hot on her trail. She bounded across the stone covered ground, bobbing past unsuspecting citizens without fail. As graceful as a deer, and as fast as a horse. For a while it seemed like Inna vanished to the crowds of people Nimena had glided past. She failed to catch a glimpse of the short haired servant girl, no matter where she looked.

Thank the gods, I finally lost her Nimena muttered when out of the stonework Inna emerged out of the blue. Her hand reaching forth, and grabbing Nimena's with a tight grip.

Ah! Nimena exclaimed as she snapped to Inna who grinned while panting.

You thought… you could run from me? Ha… I have been running from people… all my life… You are no different…

Nimena tried to break away from Inna's grip, trying to pry her hand free from Inna's clutches but she reinforced her tether by grabbing Nimena's remaining hand. Forcing her to be still, and staring her down.

You are really insistent on knowing me…

After getting me into trouble, and nagging me into showing you around… the least you could do is tell me a bit about yourself.

Nimena blew out a sigh from her nostrils and hung her head low, Alright, fine. You want to know? Then I will show you.

Inna blinked as her grip slackened on instinct, loosening just enough for Nimena to yank her hands free. Pivoting on her heel, Nimena marched forward with Inna following curiously behind.

Where are we-

Ssshhh! You will see soon enough.

Inna blinked as she silently followed Nimena to wherever the girl was taking her.

The hustle of crowded streets changed with each step to a series of roads where very few walked, and for good reason. The buildings all around sat in lofty idyllic lands far larger than the structures they contained. Lavish gardens out front, a tapestry of vivid green manicured to depict the beauty of the world and its bounty in full. Guards stood in front of the gates to each one, city guards assigned to keep their owners safe.

It was where all the wealthy lived, bloodlines blessed by the gods themselves with beauty, skill, and the right to power and rule. A place Inna despised, and in turn despised her.

Nimena, where are you-"

Nimena brought up a hand to silence Inna as she guided the two towards one particular building, a two story building of grand size, rival second only to the palace of the king. It was still under construction, there were builders and workers moving things inside. The gates were still being put up, and there were statues that were being hauled out of a wooden carriage, and moved with great effort into place in a garden that was slowly coming to life. It was one of many in the process of being built.

Outside, there were guards and they looked like they were on edge. Anxiously looking around as one guard ran over and whispered something urgently before being scolded at and sent away.

By this point, the gears in Inna's head had begun to turn. Pulling a stream of information that had been swirling in the back of her head, old and new coming together to form a complete picture. There excited talks by the weavers of something big involving movement happening today, and given the new buildings being set up – it was clear what got the colorful dressmakers all a flutter were newcomers moving into the city. Newcomers who were noble.

'Ah, of course. Why did I not see it sooner?!' Inna thought, mentally face palming at not having noticed it sooner.

Inna? Ninema asked as she stopped, and turned around to face the short haired girl.

My parents hail from Ereshu, my father is the brother to the king of Ereshu, and my mother is the head priestess of Ereshu's temple, with one hand she gestured to the building being built behind her, And that is my home. There was palpable disappointment in her tone as though her patronage was something to be ashamed of.

Wait… if you are royalty, then why are you running around in rags? Why not just ask one of the guards to show you around?

Ninema blinked, tilting her head to the side as Inna went onto ask, And for that matter, why not just tell the guards chasing us who you are?

Ninema scoffed and put one hand on her hip, And leave you hanging? No way, you do not deserve that.

Inna's mouth hung open slightly, bemused at Ninema's attitude. You barely know me.

I know enough.

Hey, I think I see Ninema! one of the guards called out, having spotted Ninema and Inna.

Well, I guess its time for me to go home Ninema said as she grabbed Inna's hands, and looked her in the eye while flashing her a smirk. Let's hang out again, okay?

Inna blinked, Uh… okay…

Ninema, there you are one of the guards said as he came up beside Ninema, and upon seeing Inna, he pushed her back.

Know your place peasant! the guard scolded at Inna who stumbled back, only to be glared into submission by Ninema.

Leave her be. She did nothing wrong.

But-

Ninema continued her icy stare, her hazel eyes burning a hole in the guard's mind. Ultimately he sighed and said, Fine. Now come, your mother has been worried sick. He grabbed her arm, but Ninema broke free and wrapped her other arm around it.

I bet she was Ninema muttered as she willingly left with the guard.

Inna stood there, watching Ninema leave. Taken through the gates that were yet to be built, she glanced back one last time before disappearing into a nearby tent that was protected by guards.

'I do not think we will' Inna thought as she turned around, and began to walk away. Drawing the ireful eyes of other girls her age, who played and talked behind the safety of their iron fences.

Hey look, it's the demon child! one of the other girls, rich in color and vibrance said. Pointing at Inna, and drawing a crowd as Inna hurried past. Their mocking laughter like pebbles slamming into her skin, long ago they were raindrops, but right now? After her run-in with Ninema, they battered her skin as she broke into a run.

She didn't know much about her now, but in time she will, and she too will join the others in her stoning. Such was her life, day in, day out. No rest for the girl who bore the lone sin of her mother, forever a flame drawing the vicious moths to her blinding light.