Lion Head Mesa There is an elephant on my chest

what had hardened this young warrior? silvertongue had never asked; it was not her right as fellahin to question, but to accept. yet she was curious all the same. "do you want to talk about it, safiya?" at last came her soft inquiry. "we can speak in whatever language you like," sweetened offer with a practiced smile, though its shine was genuine in concern and perhaps mild admiration for the youthful mazoi who had proven herself already.