Lion Head Mesa fear is the mind killer

curious. this man knew of ramesses and herself somehow, but not the claim upon which he stood. there were many of them now living upon the mesa — though as she thought about it, satsu wondered if the presence of the bear-wolves might confuse things.
the man introduces himself. he has a name that brings to mind jawahir, or tamar who loiters by her side now, the maiden having shrunken back as the man drew close. as if the queen ascendant could protect them both.
she does not trust him.
i am the samurai you speak of, which feels strange to say aloud, calling herself this thing that she is not, and never could be. her chin raises slightly but she falters when he makes motion to bow, surprised again.
akashingo needs warriors—but a man who claims a thirst for knowledge? that could be of use to her.
we are preparing to go to war. and the tone implied a further question: what use is your diplomacy then?