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Chief Kothis reels back, stunned, and the hunters and net-makers listen in horror to your recitation.

But when you mention the bravery of the warriors, Kothis seems to regain his poise and his regal bearing. He describes raids upriver by ophidians and feathered apes, and a shadowy figure that aided them in picking targets. Now they know who it was. To the River People, Keimia is no longer the chieftain's daughter but another enemy, another savage beast to be fought and destroyed.

"Why are we telling them everything?" Stralchus asks you, drumming his fingers on his rifle. "Who knows how many more spies like Keimia the False Icon has here? These people are poisoned, and this place is poisoned. Do you think you can raise these savages up to some level of civilization here?"

The mystic isn't looking at you, but at some of the people behind Kothis, including Vecla's assistant, Losh. A few River warriors nod knowingly, though Stralchus is speaking Koiné.

Kothis, still grieving the news of his daughter, just shakes his head and waves for you and Vecla to follow him as the controllers finish securing the boat.

A few warriors have surrounded Therko, keeping an eye on the last Painted Guardian without getting too close. Others surround Stralchus, who speaks to them in the River Language. His facility with the tongue is improving.

Standing near the warriors lodge where Keimia had imprisoned Control, the chief wastes no time. He wants advice for what to do with Therko. The River People are not particularly superstitious, but they hold the Painted Guardians in awe. Therko's presence may prove destabilizing, especially mixed with the fear and loss everyone already feels. On the other hand, with Keimia…gone…a warrior with invincible skin is useful. And before her corruption, Keimia spoke highly of the young man's courage and decency. Kothis absolutely wants Therko to stay but isn't sure if he can simply add a "holy warrior" (his words) to his retinue.