Deneve and Saya’s laughter rang outside the tent as they held their sides in a poor attempt to compose themselves.

“Then he pirouetted away from me with the skewered, grilled scorpion in his mouth like a rose,” Saya said, finishing her story as she giggled uncontrollably.

Deneve chuckled, “Who does that?”

“Lord Oman, when he is drunk apparently,” Saya answered, laughing harder as she wiped her eyes before handing the half-full bottle of Date Palm Wine to Deneve.

She took a healthy swig before a smirk crossed her face. “Well, if that didn’t impress you, I don’t know what would.” She teased.

“I’m not so sure that was the impression he intended to make,” Saya retorted, her cheeks rosy with wine and humor. “Anyway, I do have a serious matter to discuss with you.”

Immediately Deneve’s demeanor changed from playful to thoughtful. “What’s up?”

Saya pulled something out of her waist pouch, holding her hand out to Deneve. Deneve cupped her hand under Saya’s as she dropped the Symbol-Engraved black bead into her hand.

“Saya, why?” Deneve asked curiously.

“Barhan and I discussed it. The only person we trust with this power is you.” She explained. “You refused it before, which tells me that you don’t thirst for power.”

“Did Barhan tell you the dangers of it?” Deneve queried, narrowing her eyes.

Saya nodded, “Yes, which is why I know that you wouldn’t jump into anything recklessly.”

“I ran into Lord Red on my way here,” Deneve said, shaking her head. “He may realize you have the bead. Or it may be a coincidence. I don’t know.”

Saya’s face fell. “I know you don’t want to take this. But please, Deneve, we fear that it will fall into the hands of Kzarka cultists again or worse.”

Seeing the worry on her Saya’s face, she decided, “Fine, it will take me a few days to put together the summoning and complete the ritual.”

“Thanks, Deneve. I knew you would help.” Saya’s worry diminished slightly. “I’ll stay with you during the ritual if you need me to.”

“Right now, I think we just need to finish this wine,” Deneve said, gulping handing it to Saya.

She laughed. “I think you may be right.