This man looked more like those he remembered from the Three-fold Land: tall and sandy-furred, with striking green eyes. Cúán met them with his own orange ones, his expression open and friendly. The familiarity put him at ease, even though he knew Ra could not be of the same desert he came from.

Still, he was glad to meet another; especially one who had the gait and manner of a warrior. Cúán could see the confidence and vigilance he carried himself with. It did not offend him; on the contrary, it only heightened his respect. You may call me Cúán, he said with a nod. I am a Nualláin of the Red Canyon Sept.

He doubted clan and sept names would mean anything to Ra, but it was a matter of politeness. You come from the desert as well?