“Alani you are a fine cut, “she says in awe of what stood before her.

“I am not.”

“That dress compliments you well.”

“It does not, besides it is the only one coin could afford.”

“Have you glanced at yourself?”

“I have and while you appear impressed I do not.”

“You are a rare flower of beauty.”

“And you apparently have had one to many glasses of wine, “she says snatching the glass from her hand.

“I am many things cripple, disfigured, and drunk, “she says playfully snatching her glass back, “But what I am not is blind your beauty is striking.”

“You lie and not very well, “she says sarcastically.

“Why do you speak false words of yourself?”

“They are not false but the truth, “she says walking away into the main kitchen area.

“You do not see yourself as I do?”

“I do not, the Gods did not bless me with such a gift but my sisters were the epitome of beauty, “she says as she desperately fought back her tears. Sammaria immediately noticed she referred to her sisters in the past tense.

“Apologies for your loss you must miss them——-.”

“I am in the mood for some wine shall I refill your glass, “she says cutting her off hoping to change the subject.

“Of course, “she says raising her empty glass, “Then we shall indulge in the great Kaicus celebration!” After filling Sammarias glass then hers they shared more laughs before heading to the festival. Once they stepped outside the streets were completely empty not a single person could be found lingering. Music, laughter, and fun-filled celebration could be heard echoing throughout the air. As they drew closer to the festival they encountered more and more people. Sammaria completely filled with excitement failed to notice the stares upon them both however, Alani was very much aware. As they passed, conversations ceased, movement halted, as all attention was now on them both. At the entrance two massive wooden shaped arched tusk crossed diagonally at the tip. Young children could be seen playfully running around, individual groups gathered where joyous laughter could be heard, musicians provided music, and the air filled with the tantalizing smell of roasted meat. What Alani was witnessing she couldn’t help but to be in awe since the Kai women were not known for smiling she assumed they all were born with no teeth. Steeping inside the entrance Sammaria could barely contain her excitement.