The chatbox has been hidden for this page. It will reopen upon refresh. To hide the CBox permanently, select "Permanently Toggle Cbox" in your profile User Settings.
This chatbox is hidden. To reopen, edit your User Settings.
Once, the house of H'Haikaddad was a powerful name. Once, they'd given the great Amenhotep of the Tempest of Set the small fortune needed to bring rise to his ambitions. But, now? It was a shell of its former self, a skeleton without meat or muscle to move it to the course of the greatness the Heis of Egypt deserved. It could be called a tragedy, the fate that they suffered. But, to Nem, tragedy was an opportunity.
Agreements made in the past are a powerful bind that entrap entities together. However, history is not so easily kept. Debts that Somgi of Cairo amassed to H'Haikaddad may not be recalled by the new heir.
It was Amenemhat's prerogative to investigate this matter. After all, the bond between house and business could be deeper than blood, or a gash that sought to fester infection within the whole. Amenemhat relished in the idea of causing duress to an heir intent on keeping his bearings. The fact that he was an Egyptian general, in truth, seemed irrelevant to him. Fear and anxiety were the pitfalls of lesser men attempting to preserve what they had. Amenemhat sought for more, and in the place of fear, ambition took its root.
The path that Amenemhat tread was a solitary one. He left the duties of supervision to the madame, Layla, quite confident that his mother was capable of leading in the day's absence. The performances for the evening were left over to Kesi, just a sliver of doubt. The need for control was heavy within Amenemhat's line, but his dealings needed to take precedence over a single night, a single series of performances So, as the sun set over the city of Cairo, he made his ascent in confidence.
"Who's there?" came a voice in the distance, a pair of men in uniforms that were perhaps, a shade towards ill-maintained. How far the house had fallen. Were they sharing armour? Was this the sort of travesty brought to the mighty as they fell from the heavens? Amenemhat chuckled, soft enough that the sound did not travel to those distant ears. He lifted his gaze to meet the one who posed his question, a flourish of a hand that sought to curl about his abdomen as he inclined his head just enough to show a modicum of respect.
"I am Amenemhat of Alexandria, ringmaster of the Tempest of Set. Bring me to Narmer H'Haikaddad, if you please. Surely, he will be expecting me."
At least, he hoped that the head of the hei read his letter. It wouldn't do for Amenemhat to have abandoned his own duties if the respect was not reciprocated in kind. The other guard left the two of them, the former keeping a sharp gaze upon the ringmaster. Nem did not stray his gaze, but found his lips lifted to a curl as he resumed his straightened posture. He kept a hand behind his back, intent upon giving the signal for his company to join him. He'd brought a pair of women from the second tier of his clique, more than willing to provide the Head of Hei a show if he was inclined to have it. If not, he'd send them away.
It's the thought that counts, he mused as he waited with naught a sign of impatience or frustration at being made to wait outside like some scullery maid.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
H'Haikaddad.
Once, the house of H'Haikaddad was a powerful name. Once, they'd given the great Amenhotep of the Tempest of Set the small fortune needed to bring rise to his ambitions. But, now? It was a shell of its former self, a skeleton without meat or muscle to move it to the course of the greatness the Heis of Egypt deserved. It could be called a tragedy, the fate that they suffered. But, to Nem, tragedy was an opportunity.
Agreements made in the past are a powerful bind that entrap entities together. However, history is not so easily kept. Debts that Somgi of Cairo amassed to H'Haikaddad may not be recalled by the new heir.
It was Amenemhat's prerogative to investigate this matter. After all, the bond between house and business could be deeper than blood, or a gash that sought to fester infection within the whole. Amenemhat relished in the idea of causing duress to an heir intent on keeping his bearings. The fact that he was an Egyptian general, in truth, seemed irrelevant to him. Fear and anxiety were the pitfalls of lesser men attempting to preserve what they had. Amenemhat sought for more, and in the place of fear, ambition took its root.
The path that Amenemhat tread was a solitary one. He left the duties of supervision to the madame, Layla, quite confident that his mother was capable of leading in the day's absence. The performances for the evening were left over to Kesi, just a sliver of doubt. The need for control was heavy within Amenemhat's line, but his dealings needed to take precedence over a single night, a single series of performances So, as the sun set over the city of Cairo, he made his ascent in confidence.
"Who's there?" came a voice in the distance, a pair of men in uniforms that were perhaps, a shade towards ill-maintained. How far the house had fallen. Were they sharing armour? Was this the sort of travesty brought to the mighty as they fell from the heavens? Amenemhat chuckled, soft enough that the sound did not travel to those distant ears. He lifted his gaze to meet the one who posed his question, a flourish of a hand that sought to curl about his abdomen as he inclined his head just enough to show a modicum of respect.
"I am Amenemhat of Alexandria, ringmaster of the Tempest of Set. Bring me to Narmer H'Haikaddad, if you please. Surely, he will be expecting me."
At least, he hoped that the head of the hei read his letter. It wouldn't do for Amenemhat to have abandoned his own duties if the respect was not reciprocated in kind. The other guard left the two of them, the former keeping a sharp gaze upon the ringmaster. Nem did not stray his gaze, but found his lips lifted to a curl as he resumed his straightened posture. He kept a hand behind his back, intent upon giving the signal for his company to join him. He'd brought a pair of women from the second tier of his clique, more than willing to provide the Head of Hei a show if he was inclined to have it. If not, he'd send them away.
It's the thought that counts, he mused as he waited with naught a sign of impatience or frustration at being made to wait outside like some scullery maid.
H'Haikaddad.
Once, the house of H'Haikaddad was a powerful name. Once, they'd given the great Amenhotep of the Tempest of Set the small fortune needed to bring rise to his ambitions. But, now? It was a shell of its former self, a skeleton without meat or muscle to move it to the course of the greatness the Heis of Egypt deserved. It could be called a tragedy, the fate that they suffered. But, to Nem, tragedy was an opportunity.
Agreements made in the past are a powerful bind that entrap entities together. However, history is not so easily kept. Debts that Somgi of Cairo amassed to H'Haikaddad may not be recalled by the new heir.
It was Amenemhat's prerogative to investigate this matter. After all, the bond between house and business could be deeper than blood, or a gash that sought to fester infection within the whole. Amenemhat relished in the idea of causing duress to an heir intent on keeping his bearings. The fact that he was an Egyptian general, in truth, seemed irrelevant to him. Fear and anxiety were the pitfalls of lesser men attempting to preserve what they had. Amenemhat sought for more, and in the place of fear, ambition took its root.
The path that Amenemhat tread was a solitary one. He left the duties of supervision to the madame, Layla, quite confident that his mother was capable of leading in the day's absence. The performances for the evening were left over to Kesi, just a sliver of doubt. The need for control was heavy within Amenemhat's line, but his dealings needed to take precedence over a single night, a single series of performances So, as the sun set over the city of Cairo, he made his ascent in confidence.
"Who's there?" came a voice in the distance, a pair of men in uniforms that were perhaps, a shade towards ill-maintained. How far the house had fallen. Were they sharing armour? Was this the sort of travesty brought to the mighty as they fell from the heavens? Amenemhat chuckled, soft enough that the sound did not travel to those distant ears. He lifted his gaze to meet the one who posed his question, a flourish of a hand that sought to curl about his abdomen as he inclined his head just enough to show a modicum of respect.
"I am Amenemhat of Alexandria, ringmaster of the Tempest of Set. Bring me to Narmer H'Haikaddad, if you please. Surely, he will be expecting me."
At least, he hoped that the head of the hei read his letter. It wouldn't do for Amenemhat to have abandoned his own duties if the respect was not reciprocated in kind. The other guard left the two of them, the former keeping a sharp gaze upon the ringmaster. Nem did not stray his gaze, but found his lips lifted to a curl as he resumed his straightened posture. He kept a hand behind his back, intent upon giving the signal for his company to join him. He'd brought a pair of women from the second tier of his clique, more than willing to provide the Head of Hei a show if he was inclined to have it. If not, he'd send them away.
It's the thought that counts, he mused as he waited with naught a sign of impatience or frustration at being made to wait outside like some scullery maid.
Sometimes when Narmer wanted, he would review the old ledgers that his father and brother used to have under their rule. Narutt and Nakht had been generous, back when the Hei flourished under their supervision. Known for being kind and generous leaders, the people which Hei Haikaddad led loved their leadership, and loved them as leaders even more. And better yet, they often gave large amounts of money to certain organizations in which they saw promise in.
Organizations that Narmer wished would help them now that he was stuck with the memories of his family and a dying Hei with no gold.
But people tended to be overjoyed when you gave, yet hide when you wanted something. Despite all of Narmer's good natured cajoling, unsubtle hints, and even flat out asking, none of them had even tried to help, or offer any form of monetary assistance. And then Narmer had tried to turn to find debts formerly owed to his Hei - only to come up short. Either that, or he simply did not know how to read his own family's ledgers. What did half the columns and the number's mean? And how did his addition go so horribly wrong in just a month? If he couldn't figure out he purchase, expenses and income in a month, Narmer was going to be hopeless figuring it out for the future.
Sitting in his study, he was once again, poring and failing to make sense of all the numbers and transactions written in his brother's neat scrawl when a knock on his door knocked him out of his downward spiral. The man looked up in surprise, as if he had forgotten other beings existed in this falling-apart saraaya, before snapping out of it and waving the errand boy in.
The message had the man frowning however, a furrow in his brow. Amenemhat? Ringmaster? The name rang a bell, but Narmer frowned for a moment longer - before his eyes widened, and in a split second the man dived into the mess that was his table, and started scrambling. He remembered seeing a missive addressed to him with that name, but he had also tossed it aside as more pressing matters reared it's head, he didn't even get a chance to read the missive.
Hurriedly finding it and tearing it apart in haste, his hazel eyes quickly scanned the content, but the missive only gave him further questions. The name was familiar, but where had he read it before?
With a quick murmur at the boy to run to the kitchen and grab some refreshments from the kitchen maids, Narmer straightened his beige kalasiri's, running a hand through his short cropped hair, before hurrying down the stairwell to the waiting foyer with what he hoped was a friendly smile pasted upon his lips as he greeted the man once he entered. "Welcome to my humble abode, ringmaster." he murmured, waving a guiding them to a sitting room just off the hallway. The room was one of the more well-furnished ones Narmer kept - had Amenemhat went down further, he would see some rooms closed, other's bare due to the lack of funds he had to upkeep them - but the sitting room was the one where most guests would be brought to, so in that respect Narmer funneled most of his funds available to furnishing it. But even then, a finer eye would see the carpet which had seen better days, along with the less-then-polished copper and gold decorations in sight.
Gesturing at the man to sit as Narmer gave a sideway glance to the two women who came with him, the man chose to ignore it as his servant's entered with honeyed cider with small copper plates of dates, almonds, pistachio's and grapes, placing it on the table between them before the man finally addressed the newcomer again. "I must confess, I am unsure of your visit today." he finally mentioned, once the man's had a chance to partake in the offered refreshments.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Sometimes when Narmer wanted, he would review the old ledgers that his father and brother used to have under their rule. Narutt and Nakht had been generous, back when the Hei flourished under their supervision. Known for being kind and generous leaders, the people which Hei Haikaddad led loved their leadership, and loved them as leaders even more. And better yet, they often gave large amounts of money to certain organizations in which they saw promise in.
Organizations that Narmer wished would help them now that he was stuck with the memories of his family and a dying Hei with no gold.
But people tended to be overjoyed when you gave, yet hide when you wanted something. Despite all of Narmer's good natured cajoling, unsubtle hints, and even flat out asking, none of them had even tried to help, or offer any form of monetary assistance. And then Narmer had tried to turn to find debts formerly owed to his Hei - only to come up short. Either that, or he simply did not know how to read his own family's ledgers. What did half the columns and the number's mean? And how did his addition go so horribly wrong in just a month? If he couldn't figure out he purchase, expenses and income in a month, Narmer was going to be hopeless figuring it out for the future.
Sitting in his study, he was once again, poring and failing to make sense of all the numbers and transactions written in his brother's neat scrawl when a knock on his door knocked him out of his downward spiral. The man looked up in surprise, as if he had forgotten other beings existed in this falling-apart saraaya, before snapping out of it and waving the errand boy in.
The message had the man frowning however, a furrow in his brow. Amenemhat? Ringmaster? The name rang a bell, but Narmer frowned for a moment longer - before his eyes widened, and in a split second the man dived into the mess that was his table, and started scrambling. He remembered seeing a missive addressed to him with that name, but he had also tossed it aside as more pressing matters reared it's head, he didn't even get a chance to read the missive.
Hurriedly finding it and tearing it apart in haste, his hazel eyes quickly scanned the content, but the missive only gave him further questions. The name was familiar, but where had he read it before?
With a quick murmur at the boy to run to the kitchen and grab some refreshments from the kitchen maids, Narmer straightened his beige kalasiri's, running a hand through his short cropped hair, before hurrying down the stairwell to the waiting foyer with what he hoped was a friendly smile pasted upon his lips as he greeted the man once he entered. "Welcome to my humble abode, ringmaster." he murmured, waving a guiding them to a sitting room just off the hallway. The room was one of the more well-furnished ones Narmer kept - had Amenemhat went down further, he would see some rooms closed, other's bare due to the lack of funds he had to upkeep them - but the sitting room was the one where most guests would be brought to, so in that respect Narmer funneled most of his funds available to furnishing it. But even then, a finer eye would see the carpet which had seen better days, along with the less-then-polished copper and gold decorations in sight.
Gesturing at the man to sit as Narmer gave a sideway glance to the two women who came with him, the man chose to ignore it as his servant's entered with honeyed cider with small copper plates of dates, almonds, pistachio's and grapes, placing it on the table between them before the man finally addressed the newcomer again. "I must confess, I am unsure of your visit today." he finally mentioned, once the man's had a chance to partake in the offered refreshments.
Sometimes when Narmer wanted, he would review the old ledgers that his father and brother used to have under their rule. Narutt and Nakht had been generous, back when the Hei flourished under their supervision. Known for being kind and generous leaders, the people which Hei Haikaddad led loved their leadership, and loved them as leaders even more. And better yet, they often gave large amounts of money to certain organizations in which they saw promise in.
Organizations that Narmer wished would help them now that he was stuck with the memories of his family and a dying Hei with no gold.
But people tended to be overjoyed when you gave, yet hide when you wanted something. Despite all of Narmer's good natured cajoling, unsubtle hints, and even flat out asking, none of them had even tried to help, or offer any form of monetary assistance. And then Narmer had tried to turn to find debts formerly owed to his Hei - only to come up short. Either that, or he simply did not know how to read his own family's ledgers. What did half the columns and the number's mean? And how did his addition go so horribly wrong in just a month? If he couldn't figure out he purchase, expenses and income in a month, Narmer was going to be hopeless figuring it out for the future.
Sitting in his study, he was once again, poring and failing to make sense of all the numbers and transactions written in his brother's neat scrawl when a knock on his door knocked him out of his downward spiral. The man looked up in surprise, as if he had forgotten other beings existed in this falling-apart saraaya, before snapping out of it and waving the errand boy in.
The message had the man frowning however, a furrow in his brow. Amenemhat? Ringmaster? The name rang a bell, but Narmer frowned for a moment longer - before his eyes widened, and in a split second the man dived into the mess that was his table, and started scrambling. He remembered seeing a missive addressed to him with that name, but he had also tossed it aside as more pressing matters reared it's head, he didn't even get a chance to read the missive.
Hurriedly finding it and tearing it apart in haste, his hazel eyes quickly scanned the content, but the missive only gave him further questions. The name was familiar, but where had he read it before?
With a quick murmur at the boy to run to the kitchen and grab some refreshments from the kitchen maids, Narmer straightened his beige kalasiri's, running a hand through his short cropped hair, before hurrying down the stairwell to the waiting foyer with what he hoped was a friendly smile pasted upon his lips as he greeted the man once he entered. "Welcome to my humble abode, ringmaster." he murmured, waving a guiding them to a sitting room just off the hallway. The room was one of the more well-furnished ones Narmer kept - had Amenemhat went down further, he would see some rooms closed, other's bare due to the lack of funds he had to upkeep them - but the sitting room was the one where most guests would be brought to, so in that respect Narmer funneled most of his funds available to furnishing it. But even then, a finer eye would see the carpet which had seen better days, along with the less-then-polished copper and gold decorations in sight.
Gesturing at the man to sit as Narmer gave a sideway glance to the two women who came with him, the man chose to ignore it as his servant's entered with honeyed cider with small copper plates of dates, almonds, pistachio's and grapes, placing it on the table between them before the man finally addressed the newcomer again. "I must confess, I am unsure of your visit today." he finally mentioned, once the man's had a chance to partake in the offered refreshments.
"Welcome to my humble abode, ringmaster."
It was a show of respect, to address a man by his title rather than by his name. A custom all too familiar, but not entirely expected from the sirdar of one of Egypt's eldest heis. Indeed, the classes of Egypt were not separated by contempt, and he'd been reminded of this ever since he could walk. The wealth that the Tempest of Set commanded, their renown throughout the realm of Africa, all of this gave to them a sort of status that commanded it. Amenemhat would not allow the disease of arrogance to be is fault, and as he was welcomed into the saraaya, he motioned for his performers to follow. He did not notice their approach lag when they brushed their fingers along the arms of the manor guards, nor the distance with which their footsteps trailed after his.
The moment required his full attention, as did Narmer H'Haikaddad. He studied his surroundings, and couldn't help but notice how barren the place was. Rooms shut to entry that implied their lack of use, others still with a bare glimpse of nothingness available within. It was a sorry state, one that he'd expected upon entry but the reality of it was so...
Amusing.
Amenemhat wondered how it must feel, to be the cause of the fall of an empire. How was it, to be so irresponsible with one's charge that they allowed their grandeur to fall into such disrepair? Amenemhat could almost chuckle at it, but he kept himself quiet, already anticipating the reality that Narmer H'Haikaddad would have nothing but ill news and lacking contribution to his family's legacy of generosity to the Tempest of Set. Could Amenemhat assist him? Of course he could, but those that could not find their right path did not deserve to be shown the way. All of the resources of his well-known name, and it seemed that Narmer was unable to do anything about it.
Pathetic.
"Your hospitality is much appreciated, sirdar," he answered at last, once the pair was well out of sight of the guards and the ringmaster was led into a sitting room that at least managed to preserve some of the proper signs of care. Even then, a keen eye could see the poor carper, the neglect towards the copper and gold decorations. But, the ringmaster wasn't here to enjoy this. He did, but he let it remain unknown, an expression of practiced intrigue kept as he was given cider and the assortment of refreshments were allotted for the guests of the sirdar. The performers looked to Nem before falling to their knees beside the two men.
"I've brought entertainment, sirdar, if you wish for it. The Tempest of Set has had a long and fruitful relationship with Hei Haikaddad and I wouldn't dream of coming here just for a talk."
A flourish of his hand pointed to the pair of performers, dressed in a violet shawl that covered their shoulders and breasts in a fabric just sheer enough to add colour to their milky skin. Hazel and emerald eyes looked over the lord as they remained on their knees nearby him, pleated skirts hanging over their legs and splayed across the floor as petals to a flower.
So, he didn't read my letter. Disappointing, but expected.
"I've come to remind Hei Haikaddad that your patronage of my circus is not forgotten. But, perhaps you've forgotten us?" he mused aloud, at last allowing himself to come to the nature of their discussion. With another flourish, the performers rose to their feet, their shawls a blur of colour as they began their dance in unison, intent upon catching the sirdar's eye. Slow, sensuous movement was accompanied by easy shifts in balance, and the dancers found themselves shifting between their hands and feet on the floor in drawn out cartwheels that sought to illustrate the flexibility of their bodies and the skill with which the Tempest of Set was so famed for.
"I imagine, lord sirdar, that there must be a reason for such an unintentional slight. But, perhaps, we can come to an accord?"
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
"Welcome to my humble abode, ringmaster."
It was a show of respect, to address a man by his title rather than by his name. A custom all too familiar, but not entirely expected from the sirdar of one of Egypt's eldest heis. Indeed, the classes of Egypt were not separated by contempt, and he'd been reminded of this ever since he could walk. The wealth that the Tempest of Set commanded, their renown throughout the realm of Africa, all of this gave to them a sort of status that commanded it. Amenemhat would not allow the disease of arrogance to be is fault, and as he was welcomed into the saraaya, he motioned for his performers to follow. He did not notice their approach lag when they brushed their fingers along the arms of the manor guards, nor the distance with which their footsteps trailed after his.
The moment required his full attention, as did Narmer H'Haikaddad. He studied his surroundings, and couldn't help but notice how barren the place was. Rooms shut to entry that implied their lack of use, others still with a bare glimpse of nothingness available within. It was a sorry state, one that he'd expected upon entry but the reality of it was so...
Amusing.
Amenemhat wondered how it must feel, to be the cause of the fall of an empire. How was it, to be so irresponsible with one's charge that they allowed their grandeur to fall into such disrepair? Amenemhat could almost chuckle at it, but he kept himself quiet, already anticipating the reality that Narmer H'Haikaddad would have nothing but ill news and lacking contribution to his family's legacy of generosity to the Tempest of Set. Could Amenemhat assist him? Of course he could, but those that could not find their right path did not deserve to be shown the way. All of the resources of his well-known name, and it seemed that Narmer was unable to do anything about it.
Pathetic.
"Your hospitality is much appreciated, sirdar," he answered at last, once the pair was well out of sight of the guards and the ringmaster was led into a sitting room that at least managed to preserve some of the proper signs of care. Even then, a keen eye could see the poor carper, the neglect towards the copper and gold decorations. But, the ringmaster wasn't here to enjoy this. He did, but he let it remain unknown, an expression of practiced intrigue kept as he was given cider and the assortment of refreshments were allotted for the guests of the sirdar. The performers looked to Nem before falling to their knees beside the two men.
"I've brought entertainment, sirdar, if you wish for it. The Tempest of Set has had a long and fruitful relationship with Hei Haikaddad and I wouldn't dream of coming here just for a talk."
A flourish of his hand pointed to the pair of performers, dressed in a violet shawl that covered their shoulders and breasts in a fabric just sheer enough to add colour to their milky skin. Hazel and emerald eyes looked over the lord as they remained on their knees nearby him, pleated skirts hanging over their legs and splayed across the floor as petals to a flower.
So, he didn't read my letter. Disappointing, but expected.
"I've come to remind Hei Haikaddad that your patronage of my circus is not forgotten. But, perhaps you've forgotten us?" he mused aloud, at last allowing himself to come to the nature of their discussion. With another flourish, the performers rose to their feet, their shawls a blur of colour as they began their dance in unison, intent upon catching the sirdar's eye. Slow, sensuous movement was accompanied by easy shifts in balance, and the dancers found themselves shifting between their hands and feet on the floor in drawn out cartwheels that sought to illustrate the flexibility of their bodies and the skill with which the Tempest of Set was so famed for.
"I imagine, lord sirdar, that there must be a reason for such an unintentional slight. But, perhaps, we can come to an accord?"
"Welcome to my humble abode, ringmaster."
It was a show of respect, to address a man by his title rather than by his name. A custom all too familiar, but not entirely expected from the sirdar of one of Egypt's eldest heis. Indeed, the classes of Egypt were not separated by contempt, and he'd been reminded of this ever since he could walk. The wealth that the Tempest of Set commanded, their renown throughout the realm of Africa, all of this gave to them a sort of status that commanded it. Amenemhat would not allow the disease of arrogance to be is fault, and as he was welcomed into the saraaya, he motioned for his performers to follow. He did not notice their approach lag when they brushed their fingers along the arms of the manor guards, nor the distance with which their footsteps trailed after his.
The moment required his full attention, as did Narmer H'Haikaddad. He studied his surroundings, and couldn't help but notice how barren the place was. Rooms shut to entry that implied their lack of use, others still with a bare glimpse of nothingness available within. It was a sorry state, one that he'd expected upon entry but the reality of it was so...
Amusing.
Amenemhat wondered how it must feel, to be the cause of the fall of an empire. How was it, to be so irresponsible with one's charge that they allowed their grandeur to fall into such disrepair? Amenemhat could almost chuckle at it, but he kept himself quiet, already anticipating the reality that Narmer H'Haikaddad would have nothing but ill news and lacking contribution to his family's legacy of generosity to the Tempest of Set. Could Amenemhat assist him? Of course he could, but those that could not find their right path did not deserve to be shown the way. All of the resources of his well-known name, and it seemed that Narmer was unable to do anything about it.
Pathetic.
"Your hospitality is much appreciated, sirdar," he answered at last, once the pair was well out of sight of the guards and the ringmaster was led into a sitting room that at least managed to preserve some of the proper signs of care. Even then, a keen eye could see the poor carper, the neglect towards the copper and gold decorations. But, the ringmaster wasn't here to enjoy this. He did, but he let it remain unknown, an expression of practiced intrigue kept as he was given cider and the assortment of refreshments were allotted for the guests of the sirdar. The performers looked to Nem before falling to their knees beside the two men.
"I've brought entertainment, sirdar, if you wish for it. The Tempest of Set has had a long and fruitful relationship with Hei Haikaddad and I wouldn't dream of coming here just for a talk."
A flourish of his hand pointed to the pair of performers, dressed in a violet shawl that covered their shoulders and breasts in a fabric just sheer enough to add colour to their milky skin. Hazel and emerald eyes looked over the lord as they remained on their knees nearby him, pleated skirts hanging over their legs and splayed across the floor as petals to a flower.
So, he didn't read my letter. Disappointing, but expected.
"I've come to remind Hei Haikaddad that your patronage of my circus is not forgotten. But, perhaps you've forgotten us?" he mused aloud, at last allowing himself to come to the nature of their discussion. With another flourish, the performers rose to their feet, their shawls a blur of colour as they began their dance in unison, intent upon catching the sirdar's eye. Slow, sensuous movement was accompanied by easy shifts in balance, and the dancers found themselves shifting between their hands and feet on the floor in drawn out cartwheels that sought to illustrate the flexibility of their bodies and the skill with which the Tempest of Set was so famed for.
"I imagine, lord sirdar, that there must be a reason for such an unintentional slight. But, perhaps, we can come to an accord?"
Despite being a sirdar of an old and respect Hei within Egypt, Narmer had always been taught to treat others with the same respect he would wish upon himself, regardless of the rank of the other. It was something Nakht had impressed upon both his sons at a very young age, and it had stuck with Narmer for a long time. Even among military ranks, despite holding the title of General, he would share meals with his men, and sit around campfire as they exchanged stories. It was the sort of easygoing camraderie between men that Narmer missed the most with the death and departure of Narutt.
But now wasn't the time to dwell upon that.
Still curious as to why the man had came to visit, Narmer faintly remembered his father's scrawl that had money directed to the circus, a long time ago. Had it been that long? Sometimes as he thought, it almost felt like yesterday - yet, it had been so long he could barely recall the deep timbre of his father's voice, or the day Nakht would laugh with his wife. Still, the last time he had seen the scrawl of 'Tempest of Set' within the ledgers of the household would be at least the year after Narutt had died, in the handwriting of the steward he had long since fired once he noticed the gaping hole in the household financial records.
He wore a slightly wry smile when he watched the performers on their knees next to them, along with the words of the other man, but in turn, Narmer merely shook his head. While he would've enjoyed such entertainment just a few years prior, ever since his return to his family household, he hadn't been able to properly enjoy such matters with the more serious cloud of debts and the lack of finances to properly run a Hei hanging over his head. "I appreciate it ringmaster, but with my nieces and my nephew within the household, I would have to gratefully decline. Perhaps I could visit you at a future time, however." he murmured in return, not wanting to offend. It wasn't that he wasn't tempted - the sheer shawl that did nothing to cover their full breasts and milky skin was definitely tempting, but he had no wish to expose his nieces to such a spectacle, especially.
Sure enough, the moment Amenemhat spoke next, Narmer inwardly blanched. He should've known it was coming, but in the depths of his mind, he had somehow still hoped it wouldn't be that matter that had brought the man to the steps of his saraaya. Slowly swallowing what he hoped was a bundle of nerves that had clogged his throat, his eyes darted to the slow movements of the dancers, momentarily distracted before he quickly dragged his attention back to the man who sat opposite him, an awkward smile on his lips.
"Of course, ringmaster. The thing is my Hei has... had more responsibilities. My father and brother were great appreciators of the arts, and I assure you I am the same. I would love to continue our patronage, however our Hei has had quite some stressful times along with the death of my father and brother, and I'm afraid such matters have gone... unnoticed, over the running of the Hei." Of course, he didn't mention the fact that he had been the one who hadn't even been around to run the Hei over the 5 or so years after his brother's death, and had only recently returned over the last two years. He hadn't even got to that part of the ledgers to review yet. "Perhaps, in due time, we would be able to continue such patronage? I've had my hands full trying to pick up where my brother has left off." Internally, he hoped the man did not know he had been the one who had poofed in the years following Narutt's funeral.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Despite being a sirdar of an old and respect Hei within Egypt, Narmer had always been taught to treat others with the same respect he would wish upon himself, regardless of the rank of the other. It was something Nakht had impressed upon both his sons at a very young age, and it had stuck with Narmer for a long time. Even among military ranks, despite holding the title of General, he would share meals with his men, and sit around campfire as they exchanged stories. It was the sort of easygoing camraderie between men that Narmer missed the most with the death and departure of Narutt.
But now wasn't the time to dwell upon that.
Still curious as to why the man had came to visit, Narmer faintly remembered his father's scrawl that had money directed to the circus, a long time ago. Had it been that long? Sometimes as he thought, it almost felt like yesterday - yet, it had been so long he could barely recall the deep timbre of his father's voice, or the day Nakht would laugh with his wife. Still, the last time he had seen the scrawl of 'Tempest of Set' within the ledgers of the household would be at least the year after Narutt had died, in the handwriting of the steward he had long since fired once he noticed the gaping hole in the household financial records.
He wore a slightly wry smile when he watched the performers on their knees next to them, along with the words of the other man, but in turn, Narmer merely shook his head. While he would've enjoyed such entertainment just a few years prior, ever since his return to his family household, he hadn't been able to properly enjoy such matters with the more serious cloud of debts and the lack of finances to properly run a Hei hanging over his head. "I appreciate it ringmaster, but with my nieces and my nephew within the household, I would have to gratefully decline. Perhaps I could visit you at a future time, however." he murmured in return, not wanting to offend. It wasn't that he wasn't tempted - the sheer shawl that did nothing to cover their full breasts and milky skin was definitely tempting, but he had no wish to expose his nieces to such a spectacle, especially.
Sure enough, the moment Amenemhat spoke next, Narmer inwardly blanched. He should've known it was coming, but in the depths of his mind, he had somehow still hoped it wouldn't be that matter that had brought the man to the steps of his saraaya. Slowly swallowing what he hoped was a bundle of nerves that had clogged his throat, his eyes darted to the slow movements of the dancers, momentarily distracted before he quickly dragged his attention back to the man who sat opposite him, an awkward smile on his lips.
"Of course, ringmaster. The thing is my Hei has... had more responsibilities. My father and brother were great appreciators of the arts, and I assure you I am the same. I would love to continue our patronage, however our Hei has had quite some stressful times along with the death of my father and brother, and I'm afraid such matters have gone... unnoticed, over the running of the Hei." Of course, he didn't mention the fact that he had been the one who hadn't even been around to run the Hei over the 5 or so years after his brother's death, and had only recently returned over the last two years. He hadn't even got to that part of the ledgers to review yet. "Perhaps, in due time, we would be able to continue such patronage? I've had my hands full trying to pick up where my brother has left off." Internally, he hoped the man did not know he had been the one who had poofed in the years following Narutt's funeral.
Despite being a sirdar of an old and respect Hei within Egypt, Narmer had always been taught to treat others with the same respect he would wish upon himself, regardless of the rank of the other. It was something Nakht had impressed upon both his sons at a very young age, and it had stuck with Narmer for a long time. Even among military ranks, despite holding the title of General, he would share meals with his men, and sit around campfire as they exchanged stories. It was the sort of easygoing camraderie between men that Narmer missed the most with the death and departure of Narutt.
But now wasn't the time to dwell upon that.
Still curious as to why the man had came to visit, Narmer faintly remembered his father's scrawl that had money directed to the circus, a long time ago. Had it been that long? Sometimes as he thought, it almost felt like yesterday - yet, it had been so long he could barely recall the deep timbre of his father's voice, or the day Nakht would laugh with his wife. Still, the last time he had seen the scrawl of 'Tempest of Set' within the ledgers of the household would be at least the year after Narutt had died, in the handwriting of the steward he had long since fired once he noticed the gaping hole in the household financial records.
He wore a slightly wry smile when he watched the performers on their knees next to them, along with the words of the other man, but in turn, Narmer merely shook his head. While he would've enjoyed such entertainment just a few years prior, ever since his return to his family household, he hadn't been able to properly enjoy such matters with the more serious cloud of debts and the lack of finances to properly run a Hei hanging over his head. "I appreciate it ringmaster, but with my nieces and my nephew within the household, I would have to gratefully decline. Perhaps I could visit you at a future time, however." he murmured in return, not wanting to offend. It wasn't that he wasn't tempted - the sheer shawl that did nothing to cover their full breasts and milky skin was definitely tempting, but he had no wish to expose his nieces to such a spectacle, especially.
Sure enough, the moment Amenemhat spoke next, Narmer inwardly blanched. He should've known it was coming, but in the depths of his mind, he had somehow still hoped it wouldn't be that matter that had brought the man to the steps of his saraaya. Slowly swallowing what he hoped was a bundle of nerves that had clogged his throat, his eyes darted to the slow movements of the dancers, momentarily distracted before he quickly dragged his attention back to the man who sat opposite him, an awkward smile on his lips.
"Of course, ringmaster. The thing is my Hei has... had more responsibilities. My father and brother were great appreciators of the arts, and I assure you I am the same. I would love to continue our patronage, however our Hei has had quite some stressful times along with the death of my father and brother, and I'm afraid such matters have gone... unnoticed, over the running of the Hei." Of course, he didn't mention the fact that he had been the one who hadn't even been around to run the Hei over the 5 or so years after his brother's death, and had only recently returned over the last two years. He hadn't even got to that part of the ledgers to review yet. "Perhaps, in due time, we would be able to continue such patronage? I've had my hands full trying to pick up where my brother has left off." Internally, he hoped the man did not know he had been the one who had poofed in the years following Narutt's funeral.
Weakness.
The tension that emananted from Narmer H'Haikaddad as the mention of patronage was at last brought up was an amusing thing, indeed. Where years ago, before he took the mantle of ringmaster, he might've missed the subtle turn of expression, he didn't now. Narmer's eyes moved away from Nem himself, allowing himself to be drawn in momentarily by the same sort of entertainment he'd just refused. Of course, Amenemhat didn't know what opinion the sirdar held so as to refuse his offering in such a way. Did he think that he was being offered sex? That he and Narmer would begin an orgy in the halls of his sirdar in the middle of the day?
Amenemhat wasn't such a man. He had business to conduct and while pleasure and business often mingled in the profession he was in, this moment wasn't one of those times. At least, for Narmer. For Amenemhat himself, watching the man several years his senior semingly squirm and offer that awkward smile of his was a sort of pleasure that wouldn't be denied. He held back his chuckle, listening with polite interest as he plucked several almonds from the offered plate. He crushed them between his teeth, quite pleased to find them fresh. At the very least, H'Haikaddad wasn't so near fallen as to offer their guests stale refreshments.
His explanation was, of course, inadequate. Did Narmer neglect his responsibilities so that several years of business were left to crumble away? Did he overlook the circus on purpose? It was almost an insult, but one that might come in handy. If the sirdar overlooked his ledgers, then he would have missed the part where debts owed by the circus hadn't been paid. Nem could convince him that he was owed the debt and use it as leverage. Where H'Haikaddad left their associates and their ledgers in neglect, the Tempest of Set had not, and the knowledge of it all was a powerful tool that the ringmaster kept close to his chest.
Narmer let out excuse after excuse, blaming the death of his family for the fall into ruin. Was Somgi of Cairo not dead? Was the Tempest of Set falling into disrepair without him? It is the prerogative of a successor to build upon their forebearers, even when that forebearer was utter trash that deserved that demise. Amenemhat persevered with his grandfather's dream and took it upon himself that the people beholden to him were taken care of. Narmer? He seemed an incompetent, coming too late to his succession and made all the more foolish for it. Amenemhat had to stop himself from venturing too far into mentally berating the man, lest it bleed into his words.
Rather, he motioned for one of his dancers to circle around the sirdar. She placed gentle palms along his shoulders, soothing her touch into his flesh in the effort to further disarm the man as the other continued to sway and shift with elegant poses that did nothing to hide her full figure. Amenemhat didn't need to do anything to comfort him, but it was the prerogative to push his advantage by seeming merciful in his actions. His words could act as the knife that opened his wounds. But, not yet. Despite the man's obvious faults, he was still a noble. And surely, the name Haikaddas wasn't going to vanish into the dust so soon.
"It is my deepest regret to tell you, lord sirdar, that this isn't enough. Is the legacy of your hei's due patronage to the circus so unimportant, that you'd throw it away? How poor it would appear, for H'Haikaddad to withdraw its patronage and that information be known publically. After all, the Tempest of Set is vocal in its acknowledgement of its benefactors. We thank them at the end of every night. Those that visit often would surely tell the difference of Hei Haikaddad's name no longer being mentioned."
His lips curved into a slight smile as he tilted his head, perusing the selection of dates before taking hold of a particularly succulent piece. He turned the fruit in his hand as he offered,
"However, I think there's a solution. The circus performs in Rofah several times per year. We have an allotment of space outside of town, but it is dangerous. We have our means of wrangling the vile hippopotamuses away, but it diverts resources away from the shows. If you can arrange a venue inside of the township for us to keep in perpetuity, then your monetary contribution will be less necessary."
As he finished speaking, Amenemhat leaned back in his seat, placing the date between his lips to hide the smirk that threatened to catch his features.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Weakness.
The tension that emananted from Narmer H'Haikaddad as the mention of patronage was at last brought up was an amusing thing, indeed. Where years ago, before he took the mantle of ringmaster, he might've missed the subtle turn of expression, he didn't now. Narmer's eyes moved away from Nem himself, allowing himself to be drawn in momentarily by the same sort of entertainment he'd just refused. Of course, Amenemhat didn't know what opinion the sirdar held so as to refuse his offering in such a way. Did he think that he was being offered sex? That he and Narmer would begin an orgy in the halls of his sirdar in the middle of the day?
Amenemhat wasn't such a man. He had business to conduct and while pleasure and business often mingled in the profession he was in, this moment wasn't one of those times. At least, for Narmer. For Amenemhat himself, watching the man several years his senior semingly squirm and offer that awkward smile of his was a sort of pleasure that wouldn't be denied. He held back his chuckle, listening with polite interest as he plucked several almonds from the offered plate. He crushed them between his teeth, quite pleased to find them fresh. At the very least, H'Haikaddad wasn't so near fallen as to offer their guests stale refreshments.
His explanation was, of course, inadequate. Did Narmer neglect his responsibilities so that several years of business were left to crumble away? Did he overlook the circus on purpose? It was almost an insult, but one that might come in handy. If the sirdar overlooked his ledgers, then he would have missed the part where debts owed by the circus hadn't been paid. Nem could convince him that he was owed the debt and use it as leverage. Where H'Haikaddad left their associates and their ledgers in neglect, the Tempest of Set had not, and the knowledge of it all was a powerful tool that the ringmaster kept close to his chest.
Narmer let out excuse after excuse, blaming the death of his family for the fall into ruin. Was Somgi of Cairo not dead? Was the Tempest of Set falling into disrepair without him? It is the prerogative of a successor to build upon their forebearers, even when that forebearer was utter trash that deserved that demise. Amenemhat persevered with his grandfather's dream and took it upon himself that the people beholden to him were taken care of. Narmer? He seemed an incompetent, coming too late to his succession and made all the more foolish for it. Amenemhat had to stop himself from venturing too far into mentally berating the man, lest it bleed into his words.
Rather, he motioned for one of his dancers to circle around the sirdar. She placed gentle palms along his shoulders, soothing her touch into his flesh in the effort to further disarm the man as the other continued to sway and shift with elegant poses that did nothing to hide her full figure. Amenemhat didn't need to do anything to comfort him, but it was the prerogative to push his advantage by seeming merciful in his actions. His words could act as the knife that opened his wounds. But, not yet. Despite the man's obvious faults, he was still a noble. And surely, the name Haikaddas wasn't going to vanish into the dust so soon.
"It is my deepest regret to tell you, lord sirdar, that this isn't enough. Is the legacy of your hei's due patronage to the circus so unimportant, that you'd throw it away? How poor it would appear, for H'Haikaddad to withdraw its patronage and that information be known publically. After all, the Tempest of Set is vocal in its acknowledgement of its benefactors. We thank them at the end of every night. Those that visit often would surely tell the difference of Hei Haikaddad's name no longer being mentioned."
His lips curved into a slight smile as he tilted his head, perusing the selection of dates before taking hold of a particularly succulent piece. He turned the fruit in his hand as he offered,
"However, I think there's a solution. The circus performs in Rofah several times per year. We have an allotment of space outside of town, but it is dangerous. We have our means of wrangling the vile hippopotamuses away, but it diverts resources away from the shows. If you can arrange a venue inside of the township for us to keep in perpetuity, then your monetary contribution will be less necessary."
As he finished speaking, Amenemhat leaned back in his seat, placing the date between his lips to hide the smirk that threatened to catch his features.
Weakness.
The tension that emananted from Narmer H'Haikaddad as the mention of patronage was at last brought up was an amusing thing, indeed. Where years ago, before he took the mantle of ringmaster, he might've missed the subtle turn of expression, he didn't now. Narmer's eyes moved away from Nem himself, allowing himself to be drawn in momentarily by the same sort of entertainment he'd just refused. Of course, Amenemhat didn't know what opinion the sirdar held so as to refuse his offering in such a way. Did he think that he was being offered sex? That he and Narmer would begin an orgy in the halls of his sirdar in the middle of the day?
Amenemhat wasn't such a man. He had business to conduct and while pleasure and business often mingled in the profession he was in, this moment wasn't one of those times. At least, for Narmer. For Amenemhat himself, watching the man several years his senior semingly squirm and offer that awkward smile of his was a sort of pleasure that wouldn't be denied. He held back his chuckle, listening with polite interest as he plucked several almonds from the offered plate. He crushed them between his teeth, quite pleased to find them fresh. At the very least, H'Haikaddad wasn't so near fallen as to offer their guests stale refreshments.
His explanation was, of course, inadequate. Did Narmer neglect his responsibilities so that several years of business were left to crumble away? Did he overlook the circus on purpose? It was almost an insult, but one that might come in handy. If the sirdar overlooked his ledgers, then he would have missed the part where debts owed by the circus hadn't been paid. Nem could convince him that he was owed the debt and use it as leverage. Where H'Haikaddad left their associates and their ledgers in neglect, the Tempest of Set had not, and the knowledge of it all was a powerful tool that the ringmaster kept close to his chest.
Narmer let out excuse after excuse, blaming the death of his family for the fall into ruin. Was Somgi of Cairo not dead? Was the Tempest of Set falling into disrepair without him? It is the prerogative of a successor to build upon their forebearers, even when that forebearer was utter trash that deserved that demise. Amenemhat persevered with his grandfather's dream and took it upon himself that the people beholden to him were taken care of. Narmer? He seemed an incompetent, coming too late to his succession and made all the more foolish for it. Amenemhat had to stop himself from venturing too far into mentally berating the man, lest it bleed into his words.
Rather, he motioned for one of his dancers to circle around the sirdar. She placed gentle palms along his shoulders, soothing her touch into his flesh in the effort to further disarm the man as the other continued to sway and shift with elegant poses that did nothing to hide her full figure. Amenemhat didn't need to do anything to comfort him, but it was the prerogative to push his advantage by seeming merciful in his actions. His words could act as the knife that opened his wounds. But, not yet. Despite the man's obvious faults, he was still a noble. And surely, the name Haikaddas wasn't going to vanish into the dust so soon.
"It is my deepest regret to tell you, lord sirdar, that this isn't enough. Is the legacy of your hei's due patronage to the circus so unimportant, that you'd throw it away? How poor it would appear, for H'Haikaddad to withdraw its patronage and that information be known publically. After all, the Tempest of Set is vocal in its acknowledgement of its benefactors. We thank them at the end of every night. Those that visit often would surely tell the difference of Hei Haikaddad's name no longer being mentioned."
His lips curved into a slight smile as he tilted his head, perusing the selection of dates before taking hold of a particularly succulent piece. He turned the fruit in his hand as he offered,
"However, I think there's a solution. The circus performs in Rofah several times per year. We have an allotment of space outside of town, but it is dangerous. We have our means of wrangling the vile hippopotamuses away, but it diverts resources away from the shows. If you can arrange a venue inside of the township for us to keep in perpetuity, then your monetary contribution will be less necessary."
As he finished speaking, Amenemhat leaned back in his seat, placing the date between his lips to hide the smirk that threatened to catch his features.
Of course, Narmer was someone who wished to continue all payments his brother and father had started in their time as Head. However, his circumstances were far different then those times, where Hei Haikaddad made enough money off the residents of their land, their sales and the ownership of several ship, as well as the payments from their people in their estate. Unlike those times, now Narmer barely scraped by every month with his payment for victuals and necessities, that he could not even afford a regular donation to the priests and priestesses Ptah, much less ensure his two nieces had an acceptable dowry.
Wincing as the dancer's soft hands brushed his flesh, the man shied away, unlike before where he would melt into the buttery skin of a performer. Narmer had spent the past few years losing himself in the pleasures of flesh and women, but when reality slapped him in the face, now the pleasures of women merely reminded him of how childish he had been when he had escaped upon Narutt's death. If he had remained, would he have been able to prevent the financial ruin it was in currently?
The many if's plagued his mind, but as the ringmaster spoke, Narmer did his best to prevent the flinch on his face, as he took a gulp of the cider offered before he replied. "I must apologize, ringmaster, for no matter how vocal or how much the Tempest of Set wishes to be, the Hei Haikaddad would be unable to source out the gold as you would want." Could he risk it? Even if he couldn't, he had no choice. His stomach churned at the idea of Egypt hearing the Haikaddad's name dropped from the list of patronage of the circus, but he internally crossed his fingers that they wouldn't notice.
The suggestion by the ringmaster did halt his words as he wanted to continue however, for Amenemhat's suggestion had it's merits. The area of which the ringmaster spoke of was rife with hippo's, and his residents were fearful of even going near. But should the circus perform in Rofah, the people would spend money - and perhaps even visitors to the area? Could he then, get more money from taxes should his merchants in Rofah earn more?
Immediately, interest sparked in his eyes, as he seemed to give it some thought, and then nodded. "I would omit the taxes the circus would need to pay if they wish to perform in Rofah. However... perhaps the wrangling of the creatures could be an external show in itself, ringmaster?" the man suggested with interest, wondering if it could be turned into a spectacle which to draw more crowds and gold. Afterall, the people of Rofah lived in fear and horror of the terrifying beasts, and Narmer wondered if it would give them some measure of comfort to see the hippotamuses being given the same treatment they had given the humans in their territory.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Of course, Narmer was someone who wished to continue all payments his brother and father had started in their time as Head. However, his circumstances were far different then those times, where Hei Haikaddad made enough money off the residents of their land, their sales and the ownership of several ship, as well as the payments from their people in their estate. Unlike those times, now Narmer barely scraped by every month with his payment for victuals and necessities, that he could not even afford a regular donation to the priests and priestesses Ptah, much less ensure his two nieces had an acceptable dowry.
Wincing as the dancer's soft hands brushed his flesh, the man shied away, unlike before where he would melt into the buttery skin of a performer. Narmer had spent the past few years losing himself in the pleasures of flesh and women, but when reality slapped him in the face, now the pleasures of women merely reminded him of how childish he had been when he had escaped upon Narutt's death. If he had remained, would he have been able to prevent the financial ruin it was in currently?
The many if's plagued his mind, but as the ringmaster spoke, Narmer did his best to prevent the flinch on his face, as he took a gulp of the cider offered before he replied. "I must apologize, ringmaster, for no matter how vocal or how much the Tempest of Set wishes to be, the Hei Haikaddad would be unable to source out the gold as you would want." Could he risk it? Even if he couldn't, he had no choice. His stomach churned at the idea of Egypt hearing the Haikaddad's name dropped from the list of patronage of the circus, but he internally crossed his fingers that they wouldn't notice.
The suggestion by the ringmaster did halt his words as he wanted to continue however, for Amenemhat's suggestion had it's merits. The area of which the ringmaster spoke of was rife with hippo's, and his residents were fearful of even going near. But should the circus perform in Rofah, the people would spend money - and perhaps even visitors to the area? Could he then, get more money from taxes should his merchants in Rofah earn more?
Immediately, interest sparked in his eyes, as he seemed to give it some thought, and then nodded. "I would omit the taxes the circus would need to pay if they wish to perform in Rofah. However... perhaps the wrangling of the creatures could be an external show in itself, ringmaster?" the man suggested with interest, wondering if it could be turned into a spectacle which to draw more crowds and gold. Afterall, the people of Rofah lived in fear and horror of the terrifying beasts, and Narmer wondered if it would give them some measure of comfort to see the hippotamuses being given the same treatment they had given the humans in their territory.
Of course, Narmer was someone who wished to continue all payments his brother and father had started in their time as Head. However, his circumstances were far different then those times, where Hei Haikaddad made enough money off the residents of their land, their sales and the ownership of several ship, as well as the payments from their people in their estate. Unlike those times, now Narmer barely scraped by every month with his payment for victuals and necessities, that he could not even afford a regular donation to the priests and priestesses Ptah, much less ensure his two nieces had an acceptable dowry.
Wincing as the dancer's soft hands brushed his flesh, the man shied away, unlike before where he would melt into the buttery skin of a performer. Narmer had spent the past few years losing himself in the pleasures of flesh and women, but when reality slapped him in the face, now the pleasures of women merely reminded him of how childish he had been when he had escaped upon Narutt's death. If he had remained, would he have been able to prevent the financial ruin it was in currently?
The many if's plagued his mind, but as the ringmaster spoke, Narmer did his best to prevent the flinch on his face, as he took a gulp of the cider offered before he replied. "I must apologize, ringmaster, for no matter how vocal or how much the Tempest of Set wishes to be, the Hei Haikaddad would be unable to source out the gold as you would want." Could he risk it? Even if he couldn't, he had no choice. His stomach churned at the idea of Egypt hearing the Haikaddad's name dropped from the list of patronage of the circus, but he internally crossed his fingers that they wouldn't notice.
The suggestion by the ringmaster did halt his words as he wanted to continue however, for Amenemhat's suggestion had it's merits. The area of which the ringmaster spoke of was rife with hippo's, and his residents were fearful of even going near. But should the circus perform in Rofah, the people would spend money - and perhaps even visitors to the area? Could he then, get more money from taxes should his merchants in Rofah earn more?
Immediately, interest sparked in his eyes, as he seemed to give it some thought, and then nodded. "I would omit the taxes the circus would need to pay if they wish to perform in Rofah. However... perhaps the wrangling of the creatures could be an external show in itself, ringmaster?" the man suggested with interest, wondering if it could be turned into a spectacle which to draw more crowds and gold. Afterall, the people of Rofah lived in fear and horror of the terrifying beasts, and Narmer wondered if it would give them some measure of comfort to see the hippotamuses being given the same treatment they had given the humans in their territory.
What was it that was so amusing about watching Narmer H'Haikaddad shy away from the soothing hands of a performer? He wanted to laugh at the man for his inability to stand up for himself, for how his features seemed to spell out his moment's discomfort and it stayed there, exclusively. Narmer was weak, the prime example of a man stuck out of his element and unable to adapt to the responsibilities shoved on him. It was pathetic, but also something that Amenemhat wanted to take advantage of. H'Haikaddad would not be allowed to fall so easily. History would not yet destroy this house and the power of association went a long way, even in the midst of the chaos that brewed within the house itself. Brought to the brink of ruin and teetering over the edge to failure, Amenemehat of the Tempest of Set wanted a front row seat to it all.
So, that's what Amenemhat did. He couldn't quite hide his smirk, electing to disguise it through the consumption of another triad of almonds, eager to partake in the snacks laid out to him by a house that could scarcely keep itself afloat. It could be considered gracious, to offer such nourishment, but in the midst of it all, Narmer H'Haikaddad failed to offer the same to the circus itself. It was a slap in the face and further refusal would certainly earn the same sort of disrespect from Amenemhat. It was impossible, for Narmer to be so impassive in the face of such a well-disguised threat to his house's reputation. Surely, the cogs in the sirdar's head were working, and then... Amenemhat gave him a lifeline.
He found the 'ah' of intrigue escape his lips as he saw the interest spark within the sirdar's eyes. Then, he brought the point of conversation back to what Amenemhat wanted, and while it wasn't enough, it was a start. but Nem made sure to keep the focus on the failures of the house Haikaddad to pay its bills, and little by little, the debts the circus itself owned became but a vestige of memory.
Giving this fool my money would be a waste of it. Let him forget. Allow him to be distracted by spectacle and parlour tricks. He's worth nothing more than the wave of my hand and the touch of my dancers.
Nem arched his eyebrows at the suggestion, his eyebrows furling as a hand rose to to brush along his own cheek. It wasn't a poor idea, but... there was something missing to it. A further advantage for Nem himself to push for. Narmer wanted something that could draw crowds, but the Tempest of Set did that without effort. To risk his people for a service like that... it was simply impossible without further incentive. However, rather than outright refuse this suggestion, Amenemhat had other ideas. He nodded in agreement before he added,
"Why, yes. Of course it could, sirdar. I assume, given the suggestion, that you would send men out for my beast tamers to utilize in the effort?"
He wanted to hide the grin as he uttered what followed. He was right to come here this day. Making house calls was exactly what Nem enjoyed. Brewing conflict, sowing the seeds of helplessness while, all the while, seeking to further his position. There was only so much that obvious pandemonium could do. Making a person uncomfortable in their own skin... it was an altogether more satisfying way to create the chaos he so worshiped.
"I would be happy to offer some compensation for their time. However, I cannot place my slaves in such a position. Hamidi and his subordinates are happy to entertain, but this is not work for a coupling of men. This is a task that requires a number of strong arms. Would you agree, sirdar, that this is too great of a task to place entirely on the shoulders of my people? Give me what I ask for, sirdar," he continued. As he spoke, those soft hands returned to the sirdar's shoulders, trailing downward along the path of his arms as the dancer bent forward. Her breasts pressed between his neck and back, at the cusp of his shoulders, a sensuous display as Amenemhat sought to ensnare prey.
Use every resource, every opportunity to bring rise to the point. Negotiations when one has the advantage are the perfect opportunity to strong arm it. There is no need for flowery words and supplication when the other side has so much at risk.
"And our patrons in Rofah will know again the greatest show the world has ever seen."
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
What was it that was so amusing about watching Narmer H'Haikaddad shy away from the soothing hands of a performer? He wanted to laugh at the man for his inability to stand up for himself, for how his features seemed to spell out his moment's discomfort and it stayed there, exclusively. Narmer was weak, the prime example of a man stuck out of his element and unable to adapt to the responsibilities shoved on him. It was pathetic, but also something that Amenemhat wanted to take advantage of. H'Haikaddad would not be allowed to fall so easily. History would not yet destroy this house and the power of association went a long way, even in the midst of the chaos that brewed within the house itself. Brought to the brink of ruin and teetering over the edge to failure, Amenemehat of the Tempest of Set wanted a front row seat to it all.
So, that's what Amenemhat did. He couldn't quite hide his smirk, electing to disguise it through the consumption of another triad of almonds, eager to partake in the snacks laid out to him by a house that could scarcely keep itself afloat. It could be considered gracious, to offer such nourishment, but in the midst of it all, Narmer H'Haikaddad failed to offer the same to the circus itself. It was a slap in the face and further refusal would certainly earn the same sort of disrespect from Amenemhat. It was impossible, for Narmer to be so impassive in the face of such a well-disguised threat to his house's reputation. Surely, the cogs in the sirdar's head were working, and then... Amenemhat gave him a lifeline.
He found the 'ah' of intrigue escape his lips as he saw the interest spark within the sirdar's eyes. Then, he brought the point of conversation back to what Amenemhat wanted, and while it wasn't enough, it was a start. but Nem made sure to keep the focus on the failures of the house Haikaddad to pay its bills, and little by little, the debts the circus itself owned became but a vestige of memory.
Giving this fool my money would be a waste of it. Let him forget. Allow him to be distracted by spectacle and parlour tricks. He's worth nothing more than the wave of my hand and the touch of my dancers.
Nem arched his eyebrows at the suggestion, his eyebrows furling as a hand rose to to brush along his own cheek. It wasn't a poor idea, but... there was something missing to it. A further advantage for Nem himself to push for. Narmer wanted something that could draw crowds, but the Tempest of Set did that without effort. To risk his people for a service like that... it was simply impossible without further incentive. However, rather than outright refuse this suggestion, Amenemhat had other ideas. He nodded in agreement before he added,
"Why, yes. Of course it could, sirdar. I assume, given the suggestion, that you would send men out for my beast tamers to utilize in the effort?"
He wanted to hide the grin as he uttered what followed. He was right to come here this day. Making house calls was exactly what Nem enjoyed. Brewing conflict, sowing the seeds of helplessness while, all the while, seeking to further his position. There was only so much that obvious pandemonium could do. Making a person uncomfortable in their own skin... it was an altogether more satisfying way to create the chaos he so worshiped.
"I would be happy to offer some compensation for their time. However, I cannot place my slaves in such a position. Hamidi and his subordinates are happy to entertain, but this is not work for a coupling of men. This is a task that requires a number of strong arms. Would you agree, sirdar, that this is too great of a task to place entirely on the shoulders of my people? Give me what I ask for, sirdar," he continued. As he spoke, those soft hands returned to the sirdar's shoulders, trailing downward along the path of his arms as the dancer bent forward. Her breasts pressed between his neck and back, at the cusp of his shoulders, a sensuous display as Amenemhat sought to ensnare prey.
Use every resource, every opportunity to bring rise to the point. Negotiations when one has the advantage are the perfect opportunity to strong arm it. There is no need for flowery words and supplication when the other side has so much at risk.
"And our patrons in Rofah will know again the greatest show the world has ever seen."
What was it that was so amusing about watching Narmer H'Haikaddad shy away from the soothing hands of a performer? He wanted to laugh at the man for his inability to stand up for himself, for how his features seemed to spell out his moment's discomfort and it stayed there, exclusively. Narmer was weak, the prime example of a man stuck out of his element and unable to adapt to the responsibilities shoved on him. It was pathetic, but also something that Amenemhat wanted to take advantage of. H'Haikaddad would not be allowed to fall so easily. History would not yet destroy this house and the power of association went a long way, even in the midst of the chaos that brewed within the house itself. Brought to the brink of ruin and teetering over the edge to failure, Amenemehat of the Tempest of Set wanted a front row seat to it all.
So, that's what Amenemhat did. He couldn't quite hide his smirk, electing to disguise it through the consumption of another triad of almonds, eager to partake in the snacks laid out to him by a house that could scarcely keep itself afloat. It could be considered gracious, to offer such nourishment, but in the midst of it all, Narmer H'Haikaddad failed to offer the same to the circus itself. It was a slap in the face and further refusal would certainly earn the same sort of disrespect from Amenemhat. It was impossible, for Narmer to be so impassive in the face of such a well-disguised threat to his house's reputation. Surely, the cogs in the sirdar's head were working, and then... Amenemhat gave him a lifeline.
He found the 'ah' of intrigue escape his lips as he saw the interest spark within the sirdar's eyes. Then, he brought the point of conversation back to what Amenemhat wanted, and while it wasn't enough, it was a start. but Nem made sure to keep the focus on the failures of the house Haikaddad to pay its bills, and little by little, the debts the circus itself owned became but a vestige of memory.
Giving this fool my money would be a waste of it. Let him forget. Allow him to be distracted by spectacle and parlour tricks. He's worth nothing more than the wave of my hand and the touch of my dancers.
Nem arched his eyebrows at the suggestion, his eyebrows furling as a hand rose to to brush along his own cheek. It wasn't a poor idea, but... there was something missing to it. A further advantage for Nem himself to push for. Narmer wanted something that could draw crowds, but the Tempest of Set did that without effort. To risk his people for a service like that... it was simply impossible without further incentive. However, rather than outright refuse this suggestion, Amenemhat had other ideas. He nodded in agreement before he added,
"Why, yes. Of course it could, sirdar. I assume, given the suggestion, that you would send men out for my beast tamers to utilize in the effort?"
He wanted to hide the grin as he uttered what followed. He was right to come here this day. Making house calls was exactly what Nem enjoyed. Brewing conflict, sowing the seeds of helplessness while, all the while, seeking to further his position. There was only so much that obvious pandemonium could do. Making a person uncomfortable in their own skin... it was an altogether more satisfying way to create the chaos he so worshiped.
"I would be happy to offer some compensation for their time. However, I cannot place my slaves in such a position. Hamidi and his subordinates are happy to entertain, but this is not work for a coupling of men. This is a task that requires a number of strong arms. Would you agree, sirdar, that this is too great of a task to place entirely on the shoulders of my people? Give me what I ask for, sirdar," he continued. As he spoke, those soft hands returned to the sirdar's shoulders, trailing downward along the path of his arms as the dancer bent forward. Her breasts pressed between his neck and back, at the cusp of his shoulders, a sensuous display as Amenemhat sought to ensnare prey.
Use every resource, every opportunity to bring rise to the point. Negotiations when one has the advantage are the perfect opportunity to strong arm it. There is no need for flowery words and supplication when the other side has so much at risk.
"And our patrons in Rofah will know again the greatest show the world has ever seen."
Perhaps if his father and brother could see him, Narutt would ask him to man up. But really, the man had! In the prime of his life, when he had all the confidence in the world doing what he was good at, Narmer had been gregarious and full of life, easily attractive to any amount of ladies. But it was surprising how far a man could fall when they were taken out of their element and unceremoniously dumped into the one place they had never wanted to be, and would likely never feel comfortable in.
That, in essence was Narmer's life, like perpetually wearing shoes of the wrong size, and he was constantly shifting uncomfortably to get them to sit properly.
When the other male seemed to come to an agreement with his suggestion, internally Narmer almost wanted to jump for joy - had he done right for once? He could only faintly remember Narutt's lessons that he now wished he had paid more attention to when his brother had tried to educate him. What was it about money? Get more to earn more? He was trying to get more, but the circus just didn't seem like something he needed to pay the gold to right about now.
But if he could still find someway to keep up with the patronage his father had started... somehow, stopping it entirely seemed to be a desecration to his father's memory.
Yet, where would he find the men? Narmer's staff was skeletal at best, unable to hire much to spare. He had a handful to care for the famed gardens of the Hei Haikaddad saraaya, a gardener to assist in such care, and a few female servants to handle the general housekeep... who would he send? He wouldn't send his nephew, images of hippopotamuses taking off Kissan's arm stopping him from doing that entirely. So caught was he in his thoughts, he barely noticed the hands caressing him until a pair of breasts pressed themselves against his back.
As if startled, Narmer jumped, and then gave an awkward smile as he pushed the dancers away again, and looked warily at Amnemhat. "I'm afraid I have no men to spare then, ringmaster. You may have the communal area in the middle of the Rofah township for your performance and length of stay, but that is all I can offer you, I am afraid." he murmured, no longer wanting to hedge on the matter. There was only so much he could offer, without completely throwing his Hei into the hole of poverty.
Standing up to show his finality on such a matter, he extended a hand in agreement, before gesturing at his servants to come forward and escort the ringmaster out. "I apologize, but hope the area would satisfy the show - the people of Rofah have always enjoyed it when the circus comes around."
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Perhaps if his father and brother could see him, Narutt would ask him to man up. But really, the man had! In the prime of his life, when he had all the confidence in the world doing what he was good at, Narmer had been gregarious and full of life, easily attractive to any amount of ladies. But it was surprising how far a man could fall when they were taken out of their element and unceremoniously dumped into the one place they had never wanted to be, and would likely never feel comfortable in.
That, in essence was Narmer's life, like perpetually wearing shoes of the wrong size, and he was constantly shifting uncomfortably to get them to sit properly.
When the other male seemed to come to an agreement with his suggestion, internally Narmer almost wanted to jump for joy - had he done right for once? He could only faintly remember Narutt's lessons that he now wished he had paid more attention to when his brother had tried to educate him. What was it about money? Get more to earn more? He was trying to get more, but the circus just didn't seem like something he needed to pay the gold to right about now.
But if he could still find someway to keep up with the patronage his father had started... somehow, stopping it entirely seemed to be a desecration to his father's memory.
Yet, where would he find the men? Narmer's staff was skeletal at best, unable to hire much to spare. He had a handful to care for the famed gardens of the Hei Haikaddad saraaya, a gardener to assist in such care, and a few female servants to handle the general housekeep... who would he send? He wouldn't send his nephew, images of hippopotamuses taking off Kissan's arm stopping him from doing that entirely. So caught was he in his thoughts, he barely noticed the hands caressing him until a pair of breasts pressed themselves against his back.
As if startled, Narmer jumped, and then gave an awkward smile as he pushed the dancers away again, and looked warily at Amnemhat. "I'm afraid I have no men to spare then, ringmaster. You may have the communal area in the middle of the Rofah township for your performance and length of stay, but that is all I can offer you, I am afraid." he murmured, no longer wanting to hedge on the matter. There was only so much he could offer, without completely throwing his Hei into the hole of poverty.
Standing up to show his finality on such a matter, he extended a hand in agreement, before gesturing at his servants to come forward and escort the ringmaster out. "I apologize, but hope the area would satisfy the show - the people of Rofah have always enjoyed it when the circus comes around."
Perhaps if his father and brother could see him, Narutt would ask him to man up. But really, the man had! In the prime of his life, when he had all the confidence in the world doing what he was good at, Narmer had been gregarious and full of life, easily attractive to any amount of ladies. But it was surprising how far a man could fall when they were taken out of their element and unceremoniously dumped into the one place they had never wanted to be, and would likely never feel comfortable in.
That, in essence was Narmer's life, like perpetually wearing shoes of the wrong size, and he was constantly shifting uncomfortably to get them to sit properly.
When the other male seemed to come to an agreement with his suggestion, internally Narmer almost wanted to jump for joy - had he done right for once? He could only faintly remember Narutt's lessons that he now wished he had paid more attention to when his brother had tried to educate him. What was it about money? Get more to earn more? He was trying to get more, but the circus just didn't seem like something he needed to pay the gold to right about now.
But if he could still find someway to keep up with the patronage his father had started... somehow, stopping it entirely seemed to be a desecration to his father's memory.
Yet, where would he find the men? Narmer's staff was skeletal at best, unable to hire much to spare. He had a handful to care for the famed gardens of the Hei Haikaddad saraaya, a gardener to assist in such care, and a few female servants to handle the general housekeep... who would he send? He wouldn't send his nephew, images of hippopotamuses taking off Kissan's arm stopping him from doing that entirely. So caught was he in his thoughts, he barely noticed the hands caressing him until a pair of breasts pressed themselves against his back.
As if startled, Narmer jumped, and then gave an awkward smile as he pushed the dancers away again, and looked warily at Amnemhat. "I'm afraid I have no men to spare then, ringmaster. You may have the communal area in the middle of the Rofah township for your performance and length of stay, but that is all I can offer you, I am afraid." he murmured, no longer wanting to hedge on the matter. There was only so much he could offer, without completely throwing his Hei into the hole of poverty.
Standing up to show his finality on such a matter, he extended a hand in agreement, before gesturing at his servants to come forward and escort the ringmaster out. "I apologize, but hope the area would satisfy the show - the people of Rofah have always enjoyed it when the circus comes around."
Amenemhat was reaching.
Truly, he was. He wanted to coerce Narmer for the sake of it, choosing to twist the man's arm in order to save the ringmaster a great deal of money and increase his profits in Rofah. Truthfully, he'd accomplished a great deal more than he'd expected, given the flailing nature of H'Haikaddad, and should be satisfied at that. But, he wasn't. If Nem had a vice, it was his greed. He always hungered for more, sought after more and damned be it to those beneath him, the insects that might be quashed beneath his foot as he chased after his fortunes. Never was his success enough for him, never were his victories truly satisfying to him. Rather, the obstacles in his way were the amusement he took in it all, the twisting of Narmer's body and the continued discomfort he senses in him providing to him the constant desire to laugh.
But, he wouldn't. Amenemhat had a greater sense of self-control than that. As the ringmaster held Narmer's gaze, he could see the man's brain working, struggling to find a way to appease Amenemhat's requests. It was grand, truly, to see a sirdar laid so low, pushed so easily and placed under pressure. He had the man under his thumb and he could almost lick his lips with the pleasure that manifested because of it. Then, the sirdar jumped as the dancer pressed her breasts to his back, smiling so nervously at them before pushing them away and looking to Nem with a wariness that wasn't present before.
Unfortunate. She pushed too hard.
But, it was fine. This dancer would suffer for her poor action by being relegated to the back of her troupe, a supporting cast member in a group of second-rate (as far as the circus was concerned) misfits. She'd have to climb her way back up to his good graces. To him, that was enough. Alienating his dancers was simply unwise. Having nubile women to influence the opinions of men, much like he sought for them to do now... was infinitely useful. But also not in their agreed upon job description. So, having them open to the idea meant that his cruelty to the performers was limited.
When Narmer spoke, Amenemhat nodded in understanding, tilting his head at the offering. That was good enough for him. The centre could be turned to his intentions and he needn't risk so many of his people warding off the hippos. The smile that cast upon Amenemhat's lips was almost genuine, though for opposite reasons. He sought to appear understanding, nodding his head slowly at the sirdar's words of compliment towards the circus. Pleased with the overall results of his visit, there was little need to venture deeper into this. Besides, it looked like he was being kicked out. Amenemhat beckoned for his dancers to rejoin him before he answered the sirdar,
"There is no need to apologize, my friend. I can call you... my friend, can't I?" he asked, brandishing a wide, winning smile before winking at the sirdar. He rose to his feet, turning and taking a number of steps before he let himself have the final word.
"Of course they do, lord sirdar. I do my utmost to ensure the satisfaction of all of my obligations. It was a pleasure to meet you, Sirdar H'Haikaddad. I hope to see you again very soon," he offered before he made his way out. Once he was well out of earshot, the laughter spilled from his lips at last, the geyser erupting. The dancers around Amenemhat exchanged awkward glances before hesitantly joining along with him in the chorus.
Perfect.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Amenemhat was reaching.
Truly, he was. He wanted to coerce Narmer for the sake of it, choosing to twist the man's arm in order to save the ringmaster a great deal of money and increase his profits in Rofah. Truthfully, he'd accomplished a great deal more than he'd expected, given the flailing nature of H'Haikaddad, and should be satisfied at that. But, he wasn't. If Nem had a vice, it was his greed. He always hungered for more, sought after more and damned be it to those beneath him, the insects that might be quashed beneath his foot as he chased after his fortunes. Never was his success enough for him, never were his victories truly satisfying to him. Rather, the obstacles in his way were the amusement he took in it all, the twisting of Narmer's body and the continued discomfort he senses in him providing to him the constant desire to laugh.
But, he wouldn't. Amenemhat had a greater sense of self-control than that. As the ringmaster held Narmer's gaze, he could see the man's brain working, struggling to find a way to appease Amenemhat's requests. It was grand, truly, to see a sirdar laid so low, pushed so easily and placed under pressure. He had the man under his thumb and he could almost lick his lips with the pleasure that manifested because of it. Then, the sirdar jumped as the dancer pressed her breasts to his back, smiling so nervously at them before pushing them away and looking to Nem with a wariness that wasn't present before.
Unfortunate. She pushed too hard.
But, it was fine. This dancer would suffer for her poor action by being relegated to the back of her troupe, a supporting cast member in a group of second-rate (as far as the circus was concerned) misfits. She'd have to climb her way back up to his good graces. To him, that was enough. Alienating his dancers was simply unwise. Having nubile women to influence the opinions of men, much like he sought for them to do now... was infinitely useful. But also not in their agreed upon job description. So, having them open to the idea meant that his cruelty to the performers was limited.
When Narmer spoke, Amenemhat nodded in understanding, tilting his head at the offering. That was good enough for him. The centre could be turned to his intentions and he needn't risk so many of his people warding off the hippos. The smile that cast upon Amenemhat's lips was almost genuine, though for opposite reasons. He sought to appear understanding, nodding his head slowly at the sirdar's words of compliment towards the circus. Pleased with the overall results of his visit, there was little need to venture deeper into this. Besides, it looked like he was being kicked out. Amenemhat beckoned for his dancers to rejoin him before he answered the sirdar,
"There is no need to apologize, my friend. I can call you... my friend, can't I?" he asked, brandishing a wide, winning smile before winking at the sirdar. He rose to his feet, turning and taking a number of steps before he let himself have the final word.
"Of course they do, lord sirdar. I do my utmost to ensure the satisfaction of all of my obligations. It was a pleasure to meet you, Sirdar H'Haikaddad. I hope to see you again very soon," he offered before he made his way out. Once he was well out of earshot, the laughter spilled from his lips at last, the geyser erupting. The dancers around Amenemhat exchanged awkward glances before hesitantly joining along with him in the chorus.
Perfect.
Amenemhat was reaching.
Truly, he was. He wanted to coerce Narmer for the sake of it, choosing to twist the man's arm in order to save the ringmaster a great deal of money and increase his profits in Rofah. Truthfully, he'd accomplished a great deal more than he'd expected, given the flailing nature of H'Haikaddad, and should be satisfied at that. But, he wasn't. If Nem had a vice, it was his greed. He always hungered for more, sought after more and damned be it to those beneath him, the insects that might be quashed beneath his foot as he chased after his fortunes. Never was his success enough for him, never were his victories truly satisfying to him. Rather, the obstacles in his way were the amusement he took in it all, the twisting of Narmer's body and the continued discomfort he senses in him providing to him the constant desire to laugh.
But, he wouldn't. Amenemhat had a greater sense of self-control than that. As the ringmaster held Narmer's gaze, he could see the man's brain working, struggling to find a way to appease Amenemhat's requests. It was grand, truly, to see a sirdar laid so low, pushed so easily and placed under pressure. He had the man under his thumb and he could almost lick his lips with the pleasure that manifested because of it. Then, the sirdar jumped as the dancer pressed her breasts to his back, smiling so nervously at them before pushing them away and looking to Nem with a wariness that wasn't present before.
Unfortunate. She pushed too hard.
But, it was fine. This dancer would suffer for her poor action by being relegated to the back of her troupe, a supporting cast member in a group of second-rate (as far as the circus was concerned) misfits. She'd have to climb her way back up to his good graces. To him, that was enough. Alienating his dancers was simply unwise. Having nubile women to influence the opinions of men, much like he sought for them to do now... was infinitely useful. But also not in their agreed upon job description. So, having them open to the idea meant that his cruelty to the performers was limited.
When Narmer spoke, Amenemhat nodded in understanding, tilting his head at the offering. That was good enough for him. The centre could be turned to his intentions and he needn't risk so many of his people warding off the hippos. The smile that cast upon Amenemhat's lips was almost genuine, though for opposite reasons. He sought to appear understanding, nodding his head slowly at the sirdar's words of compliment towards the circus. Pleased with the overall results of his visit, there was little need to venture deeper into this. Besides, it looked like he was being kicked out. Amenemhat beckoned for his dancers to rejoin him before he answered the sirdar,
"There is no need to apologize, my friend. I can call you... my friend, can't I?" he asked, brandishing a wide, winning smile before winking at the sirdar. He rose to his feet, turning and taking a number of steps before he let himself have the final word.
"Of course they do, lord sirdar. I do my utmost to ensure the satisfaction of all of my obligations. It was a pleasure to meet you, Sirdar H'Haikaddad. I hope to see you again very soon," he offered before he made his way out. Once he was well out of earshot, the laughter spilled from his lips at last, the geyser erupting. The dancers around Amenemhat exchanged awkward glances before hesitantly joining along with him in the chorus.