@wandering_giraffe It was just past dawn and Jelani was already out of bed and seated cross-legged on the floor of her bedroom with scrolls and papers spread out before her. A colorful robe made of loosely spun cotton rested around her shoulders to help chase away the night's chill, but she knew soon enough the sun would beat down on them and she would trade the garment for something more fitting for the day's heat.
A lamp flickered beside her as she studied the map, a frown deepening on her features. Something wasn't making sense. But no matter how long she studied it, she couldn't quite place a finger on
why. What was she missing? Too many good fighters were losing contact recently out on missions to ensure the Never King would remain in his slumber. And yet, after centuries, they still could not locate the one piece of information that would keep him locked away for good.
Where in this dammed world was the artifact that was said to raise him? It had never been in their possession. Yes, they had the priest who slumbered in stone deep beneath their compound, but was that enough?
Previous leaders seemed to think so, but her? No...something wasn't sitting right with her. Something was wrong...
She rubbed a hand over her haggard features. Bags were under her deep brown eyes and she was thankful that her deep complexion helped to hide just how tired she felt. When was the last time she had slept properly? Years, probably. After taking over the Mtetezi at the age of 20 she had basically agreed to never sleep again.
A soft knock came at her door.
"Enter." her voice was deep and melodious, but that too was laced with years of worry; years of duty.
A woman entered and pressed her fist to her heart before giving a curt bow, "We have a missive."
Jelani motioned for her to come forward and reached up to accept the small envelope. It was thin, not much was written here she knew well before she even used a small, jeweled letter opener to slice through the top. A small card slipped from its wrapping and she glanced down to skim the words.
"Nuru." her eyes snapped up and she jumped to her feet, "Fetch Pyla to me now. Quickly."
Nuru's fist touched her heart and she bowed once more before disappearing back into the hallway. Jelani shrugged the robe from her shoulders and hastily donned her day-clothes. Much like her robe, they were brightly colored with blues and yellows which were woven in a pattern to distinguish her rank. Like all Mtetezi, it was a cropped, loose bodice and matching skirt with slits to her hips. But these were just for color and comfort. The real attire was the leather armor that strapped on top and held everything in place with belts and loops. She slipped circlets of gold around her upper arms which rested between black tattoos that wove in circles around her biceps. Even these each held a meaning. One was for her family. Another for her rank. More were added over the years and would continue to grow as her deeds increased.
Leather sandals were the last thing she donned before sweeping up her work from the floor and depositing it onto her desk.
Then, ready, she sat and waited.