The gates of Haa ground open in front of them -- the massive slabs of stone scraped against the walls of the cave with a bone shaking rumble. Pure light spilled from the freehold. A tingle danced along Rham's nerves and a smile spread across the warrior's face. He followed Qoh into the light -- the priest was already talking with the two brawny acolytes that handled the gates. One of the men nodded and pointed across the cavern.
#
"The amenities of Haa are at your disposal for the length of your stay brother," the senior priest said.
"I and Rham thank you, but we will only impose for the night. One night of fine food and rest in a bed will do wonders. But we must keep going."
The priest raised his bushy eyebrows. "Why? What drives you? You're so far from Avis Abeh as it is."
Qoh smiled. "I believe I know the location of the Library of Aurnaa."
"That is news indeed -- if its true."
"Our brothers at the Moraih had the same doubt, Kaphiri." Qoh took a drink from his glass and contemplated the verdant orchards and fields that quilted the cavern's floor. The senior priest of Haa glanced at Rham, but the man's eyes only retold the many battle's he'd witnessed and his face was expressionless.
"I'm sorry Qoh, but I'm sure you understand our doubt."
The man shrugged. "I don't ask for your acceptance. It's enough that I have Rham at my side, and for that I thank the Child. All I ask is the hospitality you'd provide a visiting brother, and that you've given."
Kaphiri sighed. "Of course. Well, where do your travels take you next?"
Qoh popped a grape into his mouth. "First we will stop in Jongkhar and then travel into the Shadow beyond the Light. We hope to make for Gitega to take on supplies before we approach the Twelve Pillars to ask permission to enter and stay in their lands." The senior priest's eyes grew as large as the apricots on the table and his gaze darted back and forth between the two of them. Qoh couldn't stifle the chuckle that spilled from his lips.
