Before I even thought about it, my hand flew out and I gently caught Kahira’s arm. I briefly saw a horrible scar knotted into the flesh on her upper arm before she tore herself loose from my grasp. The hardened gaze that fell on me when she turned around stopped every movement of my body, even the pull of air into my lungs. I swallowed, trying to rid myself of the frustration caused by the sudden development of a stutter. “I just… I wanted….” “Your overdeveloped manners will do you more harm on these roads than good if you offer a meal to everyone you come across.” Kahira’s eyes had softened, albeit slightly, and I noticed for the first time that her speech was slightly accented. Ori took a step to stand beside me, obviously unhappy with Kahira’s tone. “We are offering dinner to a woman who helped us, as is customary. Even people the likes of you should show some semblance of manners. Should that be above you, however, then continue on your way.” Kahira saw Ori’s hand resting on the pommel of his sword.
