Lion Head Mesa incassum

Arsenio’s gaze snapped to the man, wondering if he believed his words. Tamar could leave any time. Was this true? He thought to their conversations, and she had never truly admitted that she was stuck there. She spoke in ways that always brushed this aside, out of their reach. He let it happen. Still, he would not allow himself to believe that she would remain willingly, not when he promised her things beyond the mesa.

Germanicus then stated that he was building his station in the mountains, that Arsenio should join him there when it was completed. The Greek man eyed the soldier carefully. What had he meant in that? Akashingo was not a place that the guard wished to remain, but he did not want to be a servant to a branch of the Pharaoh’s rule, either.

To be a soldier for the Pharaoh? Or you have a new task for me?

Arsenio sought to clarify.

I will not forget the first, Germanikos. The task for which I have not yet been paid. When I speak to Tamar, I will return to you. I am growing tired of this place. What is your purpose in the mountain?