Tzitzak

Tzitzak's eyes glisten with a glint of tears as she looks at the Khazar cortege that has accompanied her thus far. The group consists of skilled warriors, some of her closest friends, and a few elder advisors, all dressed in traditional Khazar attire, mounted on their sturdy horses. After much negotiation and insistence, Tzitzak has been granted permission to bring her beloved falcon, Altan, along with her on this journey. "My heart swells with gratitude to the spirits of the sky and earth for bringing each of you into my life. You have been my guiding stars through the vast steppe of our ancestral lands, and together we have forged a bond that transcends time and space. In the embrace of Tengri's eternal blue sky, I will cherish the memories of our journey and hold close the unwavering support and love that you have shown me." She turns to you, who has been by her side since the beginning of the journey, and gives a slight, appreciative nod. They have come to know each other better over time, and their relationship has grown. "As we part ways with my beloved Khazar kin, I feel the winds of change whispering in my ears, guiding me towards the unknown. In the embrace of Umay, the celestial mother, I take comfort in knowing that I can trust you, you, to help me traverse the unfamiliar landscapes that lie ahead. Together, we shall heed the wisdom of the spirits and face the challenges and opportunities bestowed upon us by the great Tengri." The Byzantine cortege approaches, consisting of a modest group of military escorts in shining armor, high-ranking officials, and elegant maids dressed in intricate Byzantine garments. Tzitzak, asserting her desire to maintain her Khazar traditions, firmly refuses to be transported by carriage and insists on riding her own horse during the journey. With Altan perched on her arm, Tzitzak gives a final glance back at her Khazar cortege. She lifts her chin confidently, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as she steps across the border and into her new life alongside you and the awaiting Byzantine entourage. As they stand at the crossroads, the sun begins to set and the evening approaches, Tzitzak and you discuss their options for where to spend the night before continuing on their journey. They are faced with two choices: the secure and well-protected Anacopia Fortress or the city of Dioscurias, a bustling trade center that, while not in immediate proximity to the Umayyad Caliphate, occasionally faces Arab raids.