"They are wolves."
"... I see. What else do you know?"
"They are from the Oasis Pack apparently."
"What the hell is 'apparently' supposed to mean? Are they or are they not? By Calla, you are such an imbecile! Sometimes I wonder why I let you and your raggedy group of pussies live on my land. Find out what I want to know and stall them. I'll be there in three days to take care of it."
***
"Diplomat Jena, a group approaches!" Alastair says, and the wolves immediately fall into formation around her.
"It is our Beta and three of the warriors. They will escort you the rest of the way in as we need to resume our patrol. It has been an honor to be of service," one of the scouts salutes and all four of them turn in the direction they had come from.
The new group stops a few feet away, and one person steps forward.
"Diplomat Jena, it is an honor to make your acquaintance. I am Beta Nazih of the Eastern Savannah Pride," he says with a slight bow. "Allow me to welcome you to our lands," and he gestures around him with both of his hands.
Almost blocked from view, Jena places one hand on Alastair's shoulder.
"There is clearly no danger here so with your job done, please step aside and allow me to do mine," Jena tells him in an even tone.
Alastair does as instructed, allowing the pride members their first look at the Diplomat they were about to escort to their settlement.
Nazih can't help noticing how young the Diplomat is, especially since most Diplomats he meets or has heard of are Elders. The young woman in front of him has a tan, though it could be her natural skin color, blonde wavy hair that could easily be either curled or straightened and dark green eyes with a drop of brown at the center. She is wearing a simple white ceremonial robe, typical for diplomats, with patterns suggesting sand, water, and greenery, probably representative of her pack, but obviously adapted for desert travel.
"Wow! She's hmph..." one of the warriors gasps but is quickly silenced by an elbow to the ribs from the only warrior female in the pride group, followed by his muffled grunt from the sudden pain.
Jena notices and her eyes smile, but not much else. Her wolves, however, are not as composed and seem pleased with both the amount of respect their Diplomat is shown, as well as the appreciative looks and the awkward grunt from the opposite group.
"Thank you for meeting us, and we appreciate the escort! The Journey through the desert is, as you know, long and tiresome, and I am not accustomed to such harsh conditions. I hope we reach your home soon, so we can freshen up and rest," Jena says, relaying delicacy and exhaustion at the same time.
"Of course! Accommodations are being prepared as we speak, though we did not expect such a large group. We will, of course, have room for your warriors in the barracks, but the Diplomatic accommodations only allow room for you and a party of three. If you will follow me," Nazih says and steps forward, presenting his arm.
He is quickly blocked from view as Alastair steps in front of him.
"Relax my friend; we are among friendlies here. Is that not so, Beta Nazih?" Jena asks.
"I assure you these are my most trusted warriors and no one here means you or your party any harm," says the Beta.
Moving once again to the side, Alastair allows her to take Nazih's arm, but follows close, almost within an arm's length of his charge.
"My overprotective friend behind us is Alastair, my Personal Guard."
"I figured as much," Nazih says, glancing back and receiving a nod from Alastair.
"He will be handling all the necessary logistics for both me and the rest of the warriors that are accompanying us," says Jena.
"About that, isn't it a little too much to have so many people for a simple escort detail? If I didn't know better, I'd think this was a raiding party," Nazih says, half asking, half demanding an explanation.
"Nothing like that," Jena laughs as if to defuse the tension.
"My father is just as overprotective, if not more so than Alastair here and he wanted to make sure I was safe."
"I'm guessing he is of a higher status in your pack?"
"The Alpha."
"And he allowed you to leave the territory? I'm not sure I'd let my son out of my sight without an entire escort detail before he becomes an experienced warrior himself. Can't even imagine having a daughter out and about."
"Hence the large party meant for protection. As I understand, it's a little more than double of what it should be."
"Indeed. While I do understand the extra protection, I still do not understand why he would allow you to become a Diplomat. It may not be as dangerous as other assignments, but still, there are dangers. Brigands and rogues and desperate types hoping for a quick fill of their water or other supplies they may need."
"Short of an elaborate attack from a cohesive pack, we can eliminate any potential threat to our Diplomat's life before it can become an issue. And you did imply we are among friends here," Alastair speaks for the first time.
"Of course. You have nothing to worry about," says Nazih, flashing a reassuring smile at Alastair.
"If you will allow me a few moments, I will let the Alpha know we are coming so everything will be ready by the time we arrive," Nazih continues.
"Do what you need; I'm sure I can entertain myself by admiring your beautiful savanna. I've never seen so much green that doesn't require a nearby oasis to exist," Jena answers him.
"Alpha Mahli, I've made contact with the diplomatic party. Diplomat Jena is the daughter of the Oasis Pack's Alpha. Following her is her Personal Guard and an escort detail of 12 wolf warriors. I've made arrangements for 10 of the warriors to be housed in the barracks."
"I see. Any personal impressions, Nazih?"
"The wolf warriors look fierce, her guard - well he is a Personal Guard for a reason. She is young and very beautiful. Does not have a mating-band on, though I doubt any mate would let his partner travel the world even escorted. By her words, she is exhausted and unused to traveling. I would say she is almost delicate, but there is no doubt in my mind she is a proper Diplomat. I'm suggesting a brief introduction when we arrive then letting her rest until tomorrow at least."
"Very good. Make the proposal. You've helped me more than you know Nazih. I'll be sure to reward you when the time comes."
"Yes, Alpha."
What was that supposed to mean? Nazih wonders since he is just doing his duty to his pride and his Alpha.
***
As the person acquainted with everyone present, the Beta cat begins the introductions:
"Alpha Mahli," Nazih says and bows his head in respect, then continues:
"This is Diplomat Jena of the Oasis Pack. Honored Diplomat, this is Alpha Mahli of the Southern Savanna Pride and its territories, and you are here in our central Den.
Although not an actual Den, this natural canyon we are in makes it easily defendable, with only two ways in and out. It would be easy for us to defend even against a superior force since the narrowness of the canyon valley would negate their superior numbers."
"What about from above," Alastair asks.
"Forgive my error Alpha. The warrior that has spoken is Master Alastair, Diplomat Jena's Protector Guard," Nazih says.
Mahli is in agreement with his Beta, the Diplomat is indeed a beautiful woman, and he might even consider buying her from her father, if not for her Diplomatic status. But only if the price is right, of course. His wife might not agree, but she is in no position to argue anyway.
"I see no master here Nazih, only a young pup speaking out of turn and an even greener female that fancies herself a Diplomat.
The only thing keeping me from refusing your entry into my lands was the parchment of official inscriptions you have with you. I pity the fools that give such power to children such as you; they must truly be desperate.
But the law is the law, and as such, Nazih will guide you and three of yours to the guest house. The rest can find their way to the barracks and settle in w
ith the warriors there.
Tomorrow we will meet at lunch and discuss whatever it is you have come here to say and beg for," Mahli finishes in a superior tone.
Alastair does not react to the Alpha picking on him but moves closer to Jena, even before she is called a green female. As he was getting within striking range of the Alpha, one of the Diplomat's hands finds its way onto his shoulder.
"I assure you Alpha, that my protector was only considering how to best defend me, even from above, and he meant no disrespect.
As for both our inexperience and begging, we will have to see about that tomorrow, when we will arduously and no doubt successfully work towards finding something worth trading for the precious pure water the Oasis Pack provides your warriors and high ranking wolves, as we are no longer interested in trading for horses, and as such the old agreement is henceforth null and void. Lead the way, Nazih. Have a pleasant evening, Alpha!"
Just who the hell does this girl thinks she is? Coming here with such an attitude, and voiding an agreement that has been in place for two generations! I think not. Especially since pretty soon nobody will be hearing from her anymore.
I wonder how you're going to enjoy your new life as the slave of Otaktay's minions, Jena. Let's see how your big mouth helps you then since I doubt you will be doing any talking.
"You are dismissed," Alpha Mahli says after a couple of seconds of thought.
Jena bows gracefully then follows after Nazih who has moved away only moments before, probably towards their guest house.
"I apologize for my Alpha's behavior, Diplomat Jena. We've had frequent raids from the North, and people go missing almost every month. But no matter how much we look, our parties find no traces to follow. The stress must be getting over his good senses," Nazih says as he goes along.
"Your concerns are appreciated, Nazih, but it still doesn't excuse your Alpha's behavior. I am, however, more inclined to accept his apologies now that you have explained the situation."
Nazih looks back at Jena without saying anything, but she can read it in his eyes that the Alpha would never apologize, even if he were in the wrong.
After the Beta leaves, Alastair checks the house they were assigned. Conveniently though, the house has a basement, which is under the house. The air is damp and chill but not stale since an air current can be felt.
"Take the rest of the things inside, the Diplomat's chest in the basement and shut the blinds of the house. Then stand guard outside the entrance until either myself or the Diplomat tells you otherwise," Alastair says to one of the warriors who nods and immediately starts doing as asked.
When left alone in the House, Alastair addresses her charge:
"Your chest with the training gear is being taken to the basement, and we can begin whenever you are ready."
"Thank you, my friend; I'll be down in a moment."
Chapter 5 - Negotiations
The next morning Jena and her entire party are escorted into a common dining area where apparently they are alone with exactly 14 seats arranged around a long table with food served on it.
The segregation between her pack and the pride members could not be more obvious. Not only that, but the quantity of food is lacking and the quality even more so.
Jena feels that maybe the pride leader is trying to intentionally offend them, probably to elicit a response, but she decides to avoid the trap. Impulsiveness has no room in the actions repertoire of a Diplomat.
"This is outrageous!" One of the warriors exclaims.
"I've seen better food offered from the desert nomads. And they don't even have their own territories," another says.
"This is no way to treat a diplomatic envoy," says a third.
"My friends, keep your reactions down and your minds clear. Something is amiss here, but please allow me to deal with it," Jena says to her party.
"We could organize a hunt and get our own food," the second outspoken warrior says.
"We will do no such thing! Mark my words: you will never go hunting on foreign land without the express permission of the Alpha of that territory! Or you will have to deal with me, and subsequently with your Alpha again once we are on Oasis Pack lands," Jena says in turn.
"Yes, Diplomat Jena," two of the vocal wolves say as one while the other simply nods and she can read both acknowledgment and acceptance on the faces of her pack members while they start eating.
"If any of you are still hungry, feel free to use some of our travel rations and I will work on this issue with Alpha Mahli later today," Jena says after finishing her sham of a breakfast and rises from the table, swiftly followed by Alastair and the two other warriors on duty for that part of the day.
"Something is off here, Alastair. I know it, but I can't quite put my finger on it."
"Perhaps you should think more about what Nazih said yesterday regarding the pride's current predicament. I'll have the boys ask around the warriors of the pride, maybe they get more information that way; you know, as one warrior to another," Alastair says, and without any form of command one of the warriors with them turns around and heads back towards the dining area in a hurry.
***
"I hope your accommodations have been pleasing you, Diplomat Jena," Alpha Mahli says with a barely perceptible smirk, but it is not lost on her.
"The accommodations have been... adequate. As for the food, we can, of course, understand that not all territories are as rich and abundant as the Oasis Pack lands.
And in your current strife-ridden period with all the trouble you are having, one would naturally prioritize his own warriors to keep them fit and able to protect the pack. Or pride in your case.
We are honored to have received what we have, and I would gladly contribute four of my warriors to start a hunt and help restock your food supplies," Jena finishes emotionless, but Alastair doesn't manage to stop the half-smirk that starts forming on his face in time, and the Alpha notices.
Damn insolent pup! Now she is implying we are poor and can't properly feed ourselves and our guests. AND she wants to hunt in our place as if we can't do it ourselves!
Nazih, present at the entire exchange, and knowing the way his Alpha thinks, can only hope things don't escalate further.
"I assure you we do not lack food or anything else for that matter. Nazih!"
"Alpha, I suspect there was a misunderstanding at the kitchens, probably due to the large party Diplomat Jena arrived with. I will personally make sure this does not happen again and if needed take disciplinary actions against those responsible for this affair," Nazih says quickly, wishing his Alpha would choose to go with his suggestion.
"Very good, see to it right now, and be back as soon as you are done! As you can see, Diplomat, that was a simple misunderstanding."
I think his Beta is smarter then he is. Certainly better at maintaining relations with foreign delegations, Jena thinks.
"The rumors of our strife are nothing more than exaggerations. Just some rogue elements poking at our patrols and looting the occasional trader that doesn't have an adequate protection group with him," Mahli continues.
"What about the missing people?" Jena asks.
How the hell does the bitch know about that?!? Someone has been talking behind my back! I'm surrounded by traitors and useless imbeciles! No matter, I can work this out.
"I thank you for your offer, young Diplomat. My hunters are doing well enough providing us with food. We should move to discuss our current trade agreement..."
And just like that, he dodges the question. Does he really expect me not to notice? Jena thinks but says nothing about it.
"May I remind you Alpha, that as of yesterday, there is no trade agreement between our people," Jena says again keeping her tone emotionless.
Insolent misbehaved bitch! Who the fcuk asked this pup to come and make a mockery of me? I'm going to enjoy snapping your neck myself, Jena!
"Yes, yes, I know that! Yet, I'm sure you want our people to keep cooperating. After all, isn't the wh
ole point of being a Diplomat to establish, maintain and improve relations between parties?"
So, in the end, you are not a total idiot, Alpha Mahli. I feel a but coming. Let's see how you play that hand.
"Indeed, Alpha. You have spoken most eloquently! What would you suggest?"
"Well, in a way you have already suggested it yourself. Everyone knows that you wolves are some of the best trackers on Calla and though my warriors are faster than your wolves by a huge margin, we just can't seem to catch wind of where those rogue raiding parties go or where their hiding place is. So instead of a hunting party for food, which is obviously not needed, how about you have your wolves along with Nazih and some of his warriors go and see if you can find more at the place of their last attack," Mahli says, looking serious. "At least with that problem solved, I could be a more dedicated host, and I'm sure we would find common ground for a mutually beneficial future relationship," he continues.
OK, that actually sounds pertinent, respectful and even diplomatic. I can't deny that such an act of cooperation would bring our people closer together. And yet... What are you really up to, Alpha Mahli?
"I will have Alastair choose four of our warriors with the best tracking skills and assign them to your rogue hunting party," Jena says.
"Ah, Nazih, there you are. I hope the kitchen fiasco is taken care of?"
"Of course, Alpha."
"Good! Now Diplomat Jena has agreed for some of her warriors to form a party with you and yours. So gather your 10 best that are not on defense duty. Now, Diplomat Jena, I know you offered four of your warrior trackers, and I deeply appreciate it but I'm putting forth my Beta and 10 of his best warriors, and I'm sure you could do the same. Your protector is undeniably your best and as such should be equivalent in rank with Nazih for this event, and since you have so many warriors with you, there would be no problem in you matching my 10 warriors with 10 of yours, right?"
"That will not happen. I am to stay by the Diplomat's side at all times. It is my duty," Alastair interrupts.
Rise of an Alpha Female (Two Moons Book 1) Page 5
