The Steppe Nomads

Located in the Old Temple District of Rhydin City.

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Azjah von Drachen Walde
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The Steppe Nomads

Post by Azjah von Drachen Walde »

He fell sound asleep upon reaching the Palazzo, and while I wanted to remain curled into his arms, I could not sleep. Pain gnawed at my insides, and so I slid from our bed and wandered the Palazzo alone for a while. Until Gabriel came soundlessly into the room.

We talked for some time, and at length he agreed to escort me into RhyDin. We arrived at the Arena, and I made my way carefully and with deliberation to an empty chair near the stairs. Topaz and Rab both waved simultaneously, and as Gabriel took a position against the wall, Topaz rose and took her coffee with her to go speak to him.

I sent Hubie for a glass of sparkling water as Gnimish tossed a wave my direction, which I returned as Hubie brought the water. I removed the stilettos and curled up. Wrapping one arm around my expanding waistline, and taking the glass in the other hand, I enjoyed a moment to myself as Gabriel’s attention was diverted by Topaz.

Xenograg walked into the Arena shortly thereafter, and I was reminded of the discussion the other evening with Anjolie and Cassius. I invited him to have a seat if he had the time to discuss ponies with me. He agreed and walked over, taking the offered seat.

He smiled and opened with the usual light banter, inquiring after my health, which I announced that I was getting fat, and he laughed, telling me he was fighting the same fight that I was. I smiled and told him I had a question if he did not mind.

He gave me an enigmatic smile, “You can ask.” He sat back and set the scabbard across his lap.

“I thought that I remembered that you had steppe pony or two, did my memory fail me?” I was fairly certain he had steppe ponies, but needed him to verify that before we went any further.

He nodded, “you are correct, I own both horses and ponies.”

Then I began to tell him about the discussion a few evenings prior, “We were having an interesting discussion the other evening about ponies, and Cassius suggested I send a negotiator into the steppes to try to obtain a steppe pony.... what do you think of such animals for children?”

He seemed to ponder that a moment, “Ponies do have advantages where children are concerned.... Stallions are stallions, so I suggest a gelding either way.”

I nodded, “Yes, a gelding is best, mares and their heat cycles are trouble too.”

He then wanted to know how old the child in question was and I told him about 3 to 4 years of age.
Azjah Telyria Danaan
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Post by Azjah von Drachen Walde »

I asked him if he believed the nomads could be safely dealt with, and that earned a pained expression from Cicero. It seems the Romans shared a view of the nomads.

Xeno smiled, “but then, I am a lord of such nomads.” He felt they could be safely dealt with, but he had an inside track.

I chuckled, “Cassius felt it would not be safe for me to go to do the negotiating.” There was a short, soft gasp and I glanced at Cicero, but he looked away and I could not catch his attention.

Xeno shrugged, “Perhaps, but perhaps no more than any other strange land or culture.” He did not seem overly worried about the prospect.

“So this would not be as risky as Cassius thought?” I pressed him slightly.

He smiled, “Now that I know of your interest, no.”

I gave him an answering smile, “I do not believe Anjolie likes the idea, but the nomads have bred the steppe ponies for centuries.”

He nodded his agreement, and then brightened, “Oh, are you aware of the steppe saddles? They are short-stirrupped. This will help with a child of age 4. The downside is you cannot use them to step up into the saddle.”

“Not really, I do not know much about the steppe ponies other than that they are hardy, and resilient.” I knew next to nothing about the steppe peoples, but I would have to remedy that weakness.

Cicero spoke up about then, “Longer than that.”

I turned my gaze back to Cicero, “Indeed? I suspect Arturo will be helping the child mount the pony anyway,” I was curious how Cicero know about horses. I had always believed that the majority of Romans were not horsemen, that such was reserved for the commanders and charioteers. But perhaps I am mistaken in their history.

Cicero continued, “thousands of years have passed, I am told.” And then he offered no more.

“have they kept breeding records?” My question was directed at both Xenograg and Cicero.

Xenograg told me to be certain to include a saddle in the negotiations, and that reminded me to inquire about a bridle, but he felt a modern bridle would be just fine. Then he answered my question about breeding records, “Such records are oral but surprisingly informed. Breeding is a matter of prestige amongst the clans.”

I considered his recommendations, “So I would like to make arrangements to see these nomads about negotiating for a pony. Any suggestions how best to open negotiations?”
Azjah Telyria Danaan
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Post by Azjah von Drachen Walde »

Xenograg nodded, “I can arrange access, security, and introduction to a reputable -- and suitable -- breeder.”

He could open the pathway for me, and that was most helpful of him. He then wanted to know if I had a suitable groom, and I told him about Arturo, who is my very capable Master of Horse. I repeated my query, “Any hints how to best open these discussions? I know next to nothing about the Steppe people.”

But he sidestepped my question again, “If you are not too choosy about bloodlines, you and Arturo could look over my small herd.”

I thanked him, “We are looking for the right animal, the blood lines only need to be sound of temperament and conformation. I do not plan to begin breeding ponies.”

He smiled, “I have been buying with my own children in mind, so temperament has been paramount. What transport do you have for a trip to Xenodar?”

I thought about it a moment, “I had thought to take the McLaren. How will they feel about technology?”

He frowned slightly, “Would likely scare them greatly. We can arrange for a landing area away from any active pastures. Many of my retainers have been here in the City, and have seen some tech.”

“I see. So an alternative as we get closer would be in order?” It would not be much longer and I would no longer be able to ride a horse, but if I went sooner rather than later, perhaps I could weather a couple of hours in the saddle still.

He chuckled softly, “There are always alternatives.” He adjusted the lay of the wood scabbard for his comfort. “I would offer you the hospitality of Xenodar, but my manor is unfinished.”

I leaned back in the chair, closing my eyes tightly for a moment as a flash of pain tore through my stomach again. I would not remain in Xenodar any longer than necessary, but there was no point in risking an insult to him. “I should be going, I thank you for your information General.”

He stood then, “My pleasure Azjah.”

Gabriel was instantly at my side, offering his arm to me as support. I thanked Xeno and took Gabriel’s arm.
Azjah Telyria Danaan
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