(historian) Friend! Friend! Please. A moment, please.
*'''Historian:''' ''Friend! Friend! Please. A moment, please.''
Yes? How can I help you, old man?
*'''Basim:''' ''Yes? How can I help you, old man?''
Thank you for stopping, friend. I am a historian and teacher here from Baghdad on a mission of academic research.
*'''Historian:''' ''Thank you for stopping, friend. I am a historian and teacher here from Baghdad on a mission of academic research.''
I imagine there is much to study and explore here in AlUla.
*'''Basim:''' ''I imagine there is much to study and explore here in AlUla.''
Oh yes. The carvings in the rocks here at Jabal Ikmah date back many centuries. My students are examining them now.
*'''Historian:''' ''Oh yes. The carvings in the rocks here at Jabal Ikmah date back many centuries. My students are examining them now.''
Students? Where are they?
*'''Basim:''' ''Students? Where are they?''
That is the very reason I called to you. Three of them have been gone a very long time. I begin to worry.
*'''Historian:''' ''That is the very reason I called to you. Three of them have been gone a very long time. I begin to worry.''
I am sure they are in no danger.
*'''Basim:''' ''I am sure they are in no danger.''
Safe? Yes, of course. But doing their work? This is what concerns me. Would you mind checking on them? My legs do not do the work of a younger man any longer.
*'''Historian:''' ''Safe? Yes, of course. But doing their work? This is what concerns me. Would you mind checking on them? My legs do not do the work of a younger man any longer.''
Of course.
*'''Basim:''' ''Of course.''
[]
[]
Let us see what these students are up to.
*'''Basim:''' ''Let us see what these students are up to.''
[]
[]
Your interest in these carvings suggest you are a student of such artifacts. Is that correct?
*'''Basim:''' ''Your interest in these carvings suggest you are a student of such artifacts. Is that correct?''
(Student) Hello friend. Yes, I am considering their meaning. May I ask what you think of this one?
*'''Student:''' ''Hello friend. Yes, I am considering their meaning. May I ask what you think of this one?''
I am no scholar, but this looks to me like a hunting party of some sort. Though what they are after, I cannot say.
*'''Basim:''' ''I am no scholar, but this looks to me like a hunting party of some sort. Though what they are after, I cannot say.''
To a layman's eye perhaps, but if I pointed out that what you see are frogs celebrating the harvest, what do you see now?
*'''Student:''' ''To a layman's eye perhaps, but if I pointed out that what you see are frogs celebrating the harvest, what do you see now?''
Frogs?
*'''Basim:''' ''Frogs?''
A folk tale, my friend. Surely not true frogs. However, I enjoyed your dismay at my words. You see it now, of course.
*'''Student:''' ''A folk tale, my friend. Surely not true frogs. However, I enjoyed your dismay at my words. You see it now, of course.''
Oh, yes.
*'''Basim:''' ''Oh, yes.''
[]
[]
A student of old carvings, are you?
*'''Basim:''' ''A student of old carvings, are you?''
(Student 2) You have a keen eye. May I ask what you see in this relic of the past?
*'''Student 2:''' ''You have a keen eye. May I ask what you see in this relic of the past?''
To my reckoning, it resembles a field, one arrayed with a type of crop. But please, tell me what you see.
*'''Basim:''' ''To my reckoning, it resembles a field, one arrayed with a type of crop. But please, tell me what you see.''
I see your confusion. However, it is really a carving of a traditional flatbread covered with muhammara.
*'''Student 2:''' ''I see your confusion. However, it is really a carving of a traditional flatbread covered with muhammara.''
Ah, thank you for opening my eyes to these insights.
*'''Basim:''' ''Ah, thank you for opening my eyes to these insights.''
It is my duty and pleasure.
*'''Student 2:''' ''It is my duty and pleasure.''
[]
[]
Pardon my interruption, but are you a student of these works?
*'''Basim:''' ''Pardon my interruption, but are you a student of these works?''
(student 3) Yes, that is right! In fact, if I may trouble you momentarily, I would ask your view on this artifact.
*'''Student 3:''' ''Yes, that is right! In fact, if I may trouble you momentarily, I would ask your view on this artifact.''
I could only guess that it depicts an ancient deity of some sort. A creature invented in a legend.
*'''Basim:''' ''I could only guess that it depicts an ancient deity of some sort. A creature invented in a legend.''
Your attempt shows thoughtfulness. But we need not read so much into such things. Artists represent daily life too.
*'''Student 3:''' ''Your attempt shows thoughtfulness. But we need not read so much into such things. Artists represent daily life too.''
So they do. And what daily occurrence does this artwork represent to you?
*'''Basim:''' ''So they do. And what daily occurrence does this artwork represent to you?''
It merely record the birth of a five-legged cow to a village. Nothing more.
*'''Student 3:''' ''It merely record the birth of a five-legged cow to a village. Nothing more.''
Oh, yes of course. Thank you. I will be on my way now.
*'''Basim:''' ''Oh, yes of course. Thank you. I will be on my way now.''
[]
[]
(historian) Ah, by the look on your face I can see that at the very least my students have not been devoured by leopards.
*'''Historian:''' ''Ah, by the look on your face I can see that at the very least my students have not been devoured by leopards.''
I can tell you that their bodies do not appear damaged. Their eyes however...
*'''Basim:''' ''I can tell you that their bodies do not appear damaged. Their eyes however...''
I take it they shared with you some of their findings. Tell me, what have they surmised from the stone carvings?
*'''Historian:''' ''I take it they shared with you some of their findings. Tell me, what have they surmised from the stone carvings?''
<tabber>
<tabber>
|-|A hunting scene=
|-|A hunting scene=
|-|A frog dancing=
|-|A frog dancing=
One described a large frog that could have been dancing. Perhaps celebrating a bountiful harvest.
*'''Basim:''' ''One described a large frog that could have been dancing. Perhaps celebrating a bountiful harvest.''
A frog? And dancing no less! I already know the inattentive one who said this.
*'''Historian:''' ''A frog? And dancing no less! I already know the inattentive one who said this.''
</tabber>
</tabber>
Line 379:
Line 375:
|-|A field of crops=
|-|A field of crops=
|-|A piece of flatbread=
|-|A piece of flatbread=
A student said that one of the carvings looked like a piece of khubz'' (bread) ''with some muhammara on it.
*'''Basim:''' ''A student said that one of the carvings looked like a piece of khubz'' (bread) ''with some muhammara on it.''
They said this? What nonsense! Good for nothing rascal will never become a true historian if he keeps this up.
*'''Historian:''' ''They said this? What nonsense! Good for nothing rascal will never become a true historian if he keeps this up.''
</tabber>
</tabber>
Line 387:
Line 383:
|-|An animal deity=
|-|An animal deity=
|-|A five-legged cow=
|-|A five-legged cow=
Your student said the etching was of an animal giving birth. A cow, to a five-legged calf.
*'''Basim:''' ''Your student said the etching was of an animal giving birth. A cow, to a five-legged calf.''
Who said this? Which one? It was Yusuf, wasn't it? That son of a donkey! Back to being a stable boy for him!
*'''Historian:''' ''Who said this? Which one? It was Yusuf, wasn't it? That son of a donkey! Back to being a stable boy for him!''
I am certain his appreciation for the subtle beauty of those paintings will improve with your sage counsel.
*'''Basim:''' ''I am certain his appreciation for the subtle beauty of those paintings will improve with your sage counsel.''
</tabber>
</tabber>
You are most kind and generous with your words. Many thanks for your assistance. Be well in your journeys.
*'''Historian:''' ''You are most kind and generous with your words. Many thanks for your assistance. Be well in your journeys.''
You are doing good work here. Teaching young people about the region's heritage is a noble calling. Goodbye.
*'''Basim:''' ''You are doing good work here. Teaching young people about the region's heritage is a noble calling. Goodbye.''
===The Sand Artist===
===The Sand Artist===
(Artist) You, stranger! Over here!
*'''Artist:''' ''You, stranger! Over here!''
Well met. How may I help you?
*'''Basim:''' ''Well met. How may I help you?''
I have labored on this piece for many days.
*'''Artist:''' ''I have labored on this piece for many days.''
You have done excellent work.
*'''Basim:''' ''You have done excellent work.''
So it seems from where I stand. To be certain, I must see how it appears from above. Perhaps you could climb that rock formation and tell me how it looks from the summit? Or find any other way to view it from on high, whatever method you prefer.
*'''Artist:''' ''So it seems from where I stand. To be certain, I must see how it appears from above. Perhaps you could climb that rock formation and tell me how it looks from the summit? Or find any other way to view it from on high, whatever method you prefer.''
It will be done.
*'''Basim:''' ''It will be done.''
[using enkidu]
[using enkidu]
From a bird's-eye vantage, it appears all the more grand.
*'''Basim:''' ''From a bird's-eye vantage, it appears all the more grand.''
[]
[]
Help me! These leopards are upon me!
*'''Artist:''' ''Help me! These leopards are upon me!''
[kill]
[kill]
You are safe now.
*'''Basim:''' ''You are safe now.''
Thank you. I cherish my art, but I am glad I did not have to die for it.
*'''Artist:''' ''Thank you. I cherish my art, but I am glad I did not have to die for it.''
As am I. From what I have seen, the world would be a poorer place without more of your work. But I will not always be here. Next time you venture into the wild, it would be wise to bring a companion to watch your back.
*'''Basim:''' ''As am I. From what I have seen, the world would be a poorer place without more of your work. But I will not always be here. Next time you venture into the wild, it would be wise to bring a companion to watch your back.''
A sound counsel. I shall heed your advice.
*'''Artist:''' ''A sound counsel. I shall heed your advice.''
===Precious Bundle===
===Precious Bundle===
(merchant) Have you come to fulfil the contract?
*'''Merchant:''' ''Have you come to fulfil the contract?''
How may I aid you?
*'''Basim:''' ''How may I aid you?''
I am late with my delivery. One final bundle lies at the rear of the house, but it is heavy and I cannot lift it. Venture there and retrieve the goods for me.
*'''Merchant:''' ''I am late with my delivery. One final bundle lies at the rear of the house, but it is heavy and I cannot lift it. Venture there and retrieve the goods for me.''
I will do so without delay.
*'''Basim:''' ''I will do so without delay.''
The goods are inside a chest. Handle them gently, for their worth is great and they must not suffer damage.
*'''Merchant:''' ''The goods are inside a chest. Handle them gently, for their worth is great and they must not suffer damage.''
I will bear them as if they were my own.
*'''Basim:''' ''I will bear them as if they were my own.''
[]
[]
(Civilian) Help! Help!
*'''Civilian:''' ''Help! Help!''
[open door and helps person up]
[open door and helps person up]
Does any wound trouble you?
*'''Basim:''' ''Does any wound trouble you?''
I suffer no lasting injury, thank God! That merchant who sent you here is no honest trader but a robber in disguise. He lures workers with offers of coin, sedates them with foul fumes, and delivers them to his comrades for ransom.
*'''Civilian:''' ''I suffer no lasting injury, thank God! That merchant who sent you here is no honest trader but a robber in disguise. He lures workers with offers of coin, sedates them with foul fumes, and delivers them to his comrades for ransom.''
I will see this impostor dealt with.
*'''Basim:''' ''I will see this impostor dealt with.''
[]
[]
I must confront this merchant.
*'''Basim:''' ''I must confront this merchant.''
[]
[]
I found your last victim inside the house... He spoke freely.
*'''Basim:''' ''I found your last victim inside the house... He spoke freely.''
Victim? What victim? I know nothing of such a person.
*'''Merchant:''' ''Victim? What victim? I know nothing of such a person.''
Spare me the lies. The only reason you still draw breath is because your hand holds no weapon.
*'''Basim:''' ''Spare me the lies. The only reason you still draw breath is because your hand holds no weapon.''
(now his name is fake merchant) What do you intend to do with me?
*'''Fake Merchant:''' ''What do you intend to do with me?''
You shall learn in the moments to come...
*'''Basim:''' ''You shall learn in the moments to come...''
[assassination]
[assassination]
==Transcription==
*'''XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX:''' ''xxxxxxxxxxxxxx''
===My Beautiful Bahja===
===My Beautiful Bahja===
You seek some assistance?
*'''Basim:''' ''You seek some assistance?''
(Farmer) For the sake of my beautiful Bahja, I have come far to buy the resin of the poppy, and paid handsomely for it.
*'''Farmer:''' ''For the sake of my beautiful Bahja, I have come far to buy the resin of the poppy, and paid handsomely for it.''
Bahja? I take it she is ill?
*'''Basim:''' ''Bahja? I take it she is ill?''
Her teeth trouble her greatly, poor girl. She cannot chew a single mouthful, and I fear she will waste away.
*'''Farmer:''' ''Her teeth trouble her greatly, poor girl. She cannot chew a single mouthful, and I fear she will waste away.''
So you no longer posses the resin?
*'''Basim:''' ''So you no longer posses the resin?''
It was seized by a band of crooked soldiers located in this camp.
*'''Farmer:''' ''It was seized by a band of crooked soldiers located in this camp.''
I will retrieve the resin and return it to you.
*'''Basim:''' ''I will retrieve the resin and return it to you.''
I beg you, sneak in and avoid shedding blood. See those robbers over there? Doubtless they covet the resin as well.
*'''Farmer:''' ''I beg you, sneak in and avoid shedding blood. See those robbers over there? Doubtless they covet the resin as well.''
[]
[]
For poor Bahja's sake, I must make haste.
*'''Basim:''' ''For poor Bahja's sake, I must make haste.''
[]
[]
These rogues know how to move unseen. I must not let them reach the prize before me.
*'''Basim:''' ''These rogues know how to move unseen. I must not let them reach the prize before me.''
[]
[]
In stealth, these fools are no match for a Hidden One. With this resin, Bahja's pain will soon be eased.
*'''Basim:''' ''In stealth, these fools are no match for a Hidden One. With this resin, Bahja's pain will soon be eased.''
[]
[]
Well met again.
*'''Basim:''' ''Well met again.''
You are back!
*'''Farmer:''' ''You are back!''
Here is the poppy resin, and no blood was spilled in its retrieval.
*'''Basim:''' ''Here is the poppy resin, and no blood was spilled in its retrieval.''
Thank you! Bahja, the sweetest of all camels, will be most grateful.
*'''Farmer:''' ''Thank you! Bahja, the sweetest of all camels, will be most grateful.''
Bahja is a camel?
*'''Basim:''' ''Bahja is a camel?''
What else could she be? Now then, time to administer this resin.
*'''Farmer:''' ''What else could she be? Now then, time to administer this resin.''
===Player Of Games===
===Player Of Games===
I gather you are in need of assistance?
*'''Basim:''' ''I gather you are in need of assistance?''
(Organizer) Indeed. As you are likely aware, I am AlUla's organizer of grand diversions.
*'''Organizer:''' ''Indeed. As you are likely aware, I am AlUla's organizer of grand diversions.''
Grand diversions?
*'''Basim:''' ''Grand diversions?''
A neighbouring shaykh comes to strike a pact of trade, and our merchants wish to honor him. Among the entertainments, there is to be a contest of speed and skill of my devising. But first, I require someone to test the design. Your task is simple - shatter the pots in the allocated time. Any means are acceptable. Even explosives may be used.
*'''Organizer:''' ''A neighbouring shaykh comes to strike a pact of trade, and our merchants wish to honor him. Among the entertainments, there is to be a contest of speed and skill of my devising. But first, I require someone to test the design. Your task is simple - shatter the pots in the allocated time. Any means are acceptable. Even explosives may be used.''
I will meet your challenge.
*'''Basim:''' ''I will meet your challenge.''
When I give the command, your trial begins at the first step.
*'''Organizer:''' ''When I give the command, your trial begins at the first step.''
[]
[]
Now, are you ready?
*'''Organizer:''' ''Now, are you ready?''
Let us begin.
*'''Basim:''' ''Let us begin.''
Let the trial commence!
*'''Organizer:''' ''Let the trial commence!''
[]
[]
Let the trial be concluded!
*'''Organizer:''' ''Let the trial be concluded!''
[]
[]
The task is complete.
*'''Basim:''' ''The task is complete.''
Your speed was most commendable, yet it is my design that bears the mark of greatness.
*'''Organizer:''' ''Your speed was most commendable, yet it is my design that bears the mark of greatness.''
You honor me with your praise.
*'''Basim:''' ''You honor me with your praise.''
Yes, yes, though the lion's share of that praise goes to me.
*'''Organizer:''' ''Yes, yes, though the lion's share of that praise goes to me.''
===Managed Misfortunes===
===Managed Misfortunes===
(merchant) Come, friend! Over here!
*'''Merchant:''' ''Come, friend! Over here!''
How may I be of service?
*'''Basim:''' ''How may I be of service?''
A band of four robbers keep attacking my caravans.
*'''Merchant:''' ''A band of four robbers keep attacking my caravans.''
What would you have me do?
*'''Basim:''' ''What would you have me do?''
Their camp is at Al Khuraymat. Deal with them so they never trouble me again. But please, let their deaths seem like misfortune... Otherwise I may face retribution.
*'''Merchant:''' ''Their camp is at Al Khuraymat. Deal with them so they never trouble me again. But please, let their deaths seem like misfortune... Otherwise I may face retribution.''
All who perish, either these four or any who get in my way, shall bear the mark of mischance, nothing more.
*'''Basim:''' ''All who perish, either these four or any who get in my way, shall bear the mark of mischance, nothing more.''
[]
[]
It is done. To any who chance upon them, the dead will appear to be the most unlucky scoundrels to have ever roamed this land.
*'''Basim:''' ''It is done. To any who chance upon them, the dead will appear to be the most unlucky scoundrels to have ever roamed this land.''
[]
[]
Time to leave.
*'''Basim:''' ''Time to leave.''
===Free the Animals===
===Free the Animals===
{{IUNote|Title=Dead Man's Note|Text=To the one who finds this,<br><br>I write with my life's ebbind breath. I watched the robbers from this very campfire, marking their cruel trade in injured beasts. But then they found me - tortured me, left me to die amid the sands.<br><br>If you hold this, please free the wounded animals and protect them from their tormentors.<br><br>- A dying man beneath the stars.}}
{{IUNote|Title=Dead Man's Note|Text=To the one who finds this,<br><br>I write with my life's ebbind breath. I watched the robbers from this very campfire, marking their cruel trade in injured beasts. But then they found me - tortured me, left me to die amid the sands.<br><br>If you hold this, please free the wounded animals and protect them from their tormentors.<br><br>- A dying man beneath the stars.}}
[]
[]
This is the place.
*'''Basim:''' ''This is the place.''
[]
[]
Time to leave.
*'''Basim:''' ''Time to leave.''
===To Save A Wedding===
===To Save A Wedding===
(Merchant) Come! Please! I have urgent work for you!
*'''Merchant:''' ''Come! Please! I have urgent work for you!''
How may I serve you?
*'''Basim:''' ''How may I serve you?''
My son is to be wed.
*'''Merchant:''' ''My son is to be wed.''
Surely congratulations are in order?
*'''Basim:''' ''Surely congratulations are in order?''
Alas, your goodwill may prove premature.
*'''Merchant:''' ''Alas, your goodwill may prove premature.''
I pledged the gift to the bride's father, a token of honor for our families. But earlier today, robbers fell upon us and seized the valuables, sharing them among their three chiefs.
*'''Basim:''' ''I pledged the gift to the bride's father, a token of honor for our families. But earlier today, robbers fell upon us and seized the valuables, sharing them among their three chiefs.''
You would have me recover your son's gift?
*'''Merchant:''' ''You would have me recover your son's gift?''
Without it, the wedding contract is void. I would bring shame upon myself, and my son's joy would be shattered. The robbers' camp lies in the Southern Wilderness. If you can, do not draw attention to yourself. A subtle theft would serve us best.
*'''Basim:''' ''Without it, the wedding contract is void. I would bring shame upon myself, and my son's joy would be shattered. The robbers' camp lies in the Southern Wilderness. If you can, do not draw attention to yourself. A subtle theft would serve us best.''
[]
[]
I must try to relieve the three chiefs of their treasures with subtle hands.
*'''Basim:''' ''I must try to relieve the three chiefs of their treasures with subtle hands.''
[]
[]
I recovered the valuables, and no one is the wiser.
*'''Basim:''' ''I recovered the valuables, and no one is the wiser. ''
That is wonderful news. You have my eternal gratitude. As a token of my thanks, and atop the agreed fee, allow me to offer you my eldest daughter's hand in marriage. She is a worthy woman. Though still mourning her first husband, her skill at the hearth is unmatched.
*'''Merchant:''' ''That is wonderful news. You have my eternal gratitude. As a token of my thanks, and atop the agreed fee, allow me to offer you my eldest daughter's hand in marriage. She is a worthy woman. Though still mourning her first husband, her skill at the hearth is unmatched.''
<tabber>
<tabber>
|-|I'm already taken=
|-|I'm already taken=
|-|You don't want me in your family=
|-|You don't want me in your family=
Shukran laka, but my vices are many. I would make for a poor husband and a worse son-in-law.
*'''Basim:''' ''Shukran laka, but my vices are many. I would make for a poor husband and a worse son-in-law.''
As you wish. But do not be too hard on yourself! A few vices aside, you are clearly a man of quality.
*'''Merchant:''' ''As you wish. But do not be too hard on yourself! A few vices aside, you are clearly a man of quality.''
MM:SS The Heart of Corruption • MM:SS House of Memories • MM:SS Tracks in the Desert • MM:SS In the Vulture's Nest
Contracts
MM:SS Free the Animals • MM:SS Managed Misfortunes • MM:SS My Beautiful Bahja • MM:SS Player Of Games • MM:SS Precious Bundle • MM:SS To Save A Wedding
Pagemaking
Stolen Goods
Clues
In the north, where the lone necropolis lies, look by the entrance where palm leaves gather. A hidden treasure awaits.
(Clue found northeast of AlUla Market) (Solution located at Tomb of Hayyan son of Kuza, Hegra)
[map with vulture]
(Clue found at AlUla, north of viewpoint) (Solution located at Al-Banat Mountain, Hegra)
[map with hole]
(Clue found at Robbers' South Outpost, Southern Wilds) (Solution located east of Al-Ahmar Mountain, in Northern Wilds)
In the desert where the sand sleeps, a high arch stands, and atop its bowed peak lies a secret keep.
(Clue found west of Abandoned Farm, AlUla Oasis) (Solution located at Robbers' North Outpost, Ramm Valley)
Look for the wooden walkway near a yard where the dead lie silent. Close by, between two trees, rests a treasure silent too, as if in reverence for those who sleep.
(Clue found at Robbers' Water Supply, Ramm Valley) (Solution located at AlUla Cemetery, Southern Wilds)
[map in tatters]
(Clue found at Robbers' North Outpost, Ramm Valley) (Solution located north of AlUla Market, AlUla)
Proceed through a tight corridor to the side of the old town's market square. Once inside the small courtyard beyond, you will spy a house bearing the eagle's mark. Within this house hides treasure.
(Clue found at Al-Khuraymat, Hegra) (Solution located at AlUla, east of viewpoint)
[Partial map in ceramic shard]
(Clue found at Al-Ahmar Mountain, Hegra) (Solution located at Nimlot's Estate, AlUla Oasis)
Items
Image
Name
Description
Kalam Pen
An elegant reed pen used for writing Arabic calligraphy with divine grace and timeless beauty.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Decorative Camel Figurine
A calcite stone figurine depicting an upright camel with subtly carved patterns indicating its saddle and straps.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Carnelian Stone Ring
An ancient Islamic signet ring with carved carnelian stone bearing Arabic calligraphy, worn by scholars and nobility.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Roman Gold Coin
A gleaming gold coin bearing Caesar's noble profile, symbol of the empire's might and eternal Roman glory.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Centurion Medal
A bronze military honor awarded to Roman centurions for valor, bearing an eagle and legion symbols of command.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Bronze Eagle-Shaped Figurine
An ancient bronze eagle figurine with a weathered patina, symbol of Roman imperial power and divine authority.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Metal Figurine
An ancient bronze figurine depicting a seated figure with a child and an animal.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Burial Mask
A golden mask intended to protect the deceased and prepare them for their eternal journey.
Hind might take interest in this. Bring it to her at Nimlot's Estate.
Dialogue
[]
Hind:Greetings, Basim. It is always a pleasure to see you.
Basim:Greetings—I have found something that will please you. Distribute this as you see fit.
Hind:Truly, you are a champion of AlUla.
Valley of Memory (memory)
Basim must look into the past if he is to uncover the fate of Ishaq.
Dervis:Basim! Finally.
Basim:Have you missed me that much?
Dervis:I have something to show you.
[]
Basim:Where did you find this?
Dervis:A Bedouin merchant passed through, selling some items. Most stolen, I suspect. But this painting caught my eye. It reminded me of your brooch.
Basim:Samarra...
Dervis:Do you think your father painted it?
Basim:He and I loved this house deeply... Where did the Bedouin find it?
Dervis:He said he bought the painting in AlUla, from a notorious peddler of stolen goods.
Basim:AlUla? When I was a boy, my father read me stories of that ancient land and its mysterious monuments... He said we would go there together, when I was old enough to make the journey. I have not seen my father in many years. Not since the day he was exiled by the Khalifa. The day he left me behind.
Dervis:Sometimes the past chases us.
Basim:Dervis, what if my father is still alive? I must go to AlUla.
Dervis:You will likely be crossing a desert to visit a grave... Still, I understand your need to make the journey. I know the place quite well, having previously travelled there on matters of commerce...
Basim:You will accompany me, then?
Dervis:Whatever you face, Basim, I will not let you do so alone. Now, are you ready to uncover the truth about your father?
Basim:I am ready.
[]
Basim:I am not sure what scares me more, finding my father's resting place or finding nothing at all.
Dervis:Remember, it is foolish to deny the past, yet also unwise to surrender to it. Better to face it, accept it... and move on.
Basim:First, we go to the cemetery. If my father's grave truly lies there, I need to see it with my own eyes.
Dervis:It has been a long journey, Basim. Let us take the time to rest. We can go in the morning.
Basim:You are right... Tomorrow shall yield its answers, whatever they may be.
Wine of the Bean
[]
Merchant:This burnt-bean brew offends the tongue!
Coffee merchant:You know nothing of fine flavor!
[]
Coffee merchant:Greetings! Would you care to sample the wine of the bean?
Basim:Wine of the bean? What manner of drink is this?
Coffee merchant:It is drawn from the roasted seeds of a shrub that grows far to the south.
Basim:And what virtue does it hold?
Coffee merchant:It steadies the mind and kindles the body. One draught and weariness is driven off.
Basim:You speak with great confidence.
Coffee merchant:Perhaps you will permit a taste?
[]
Basim:It is sharp upon the tongue.
Coffee merchant:Its true flavor unfolds with time.
Basim:Perhaps a touch of milk might temper its edge?
Coffee merchant:Preposterous! None in their right mind would taint the brew in such a manner.
The Ones Who Remain
[]
Basim:Truly, AlUla is a land of the rarest beauty.
[]
Dervis:Basim, over here! I hope you are well-rested...
Basim:It was a fitful night. Sleep did not come easily.
[]
Dervis: [sighs]
Basim:The moment of truth. Ishaq ibn Khalid... Let us look for a grave bearing his name.
Dervis:If he is here, our quest is done... And if he is not, there is still hope.
[]
Basim:Jareer ibn Sulaym... this is not my father's final resting place.
[]
Basim:Do you recall the day my father was exiled?
Dervis:Your father was a good man, but also a proud one. When he was exiled, the burden of his shame was more than he could bear.
Basim:So ashamed that he abandoned me?
[]
Basim:Rashid Al-Asadi... We must keep searching.
[]
Basim:The day my father left me with you... That moment has stayed with me ever since.
Dervis:Of all the children who have come under my care... You were silent at first, but the pain in your eyes said enough.
Basim:You have been a father to so many of us orphans...Yet the horror that befell Jasib and the others...
Dervis:They are gone from this world, Basim, but not from our hearts.
[]
Basim:I will examine the graves to the north. You, in the meantime, continue scouring the other burial grounds.
[]
Basim:Mansoor Al-Kilabi... Not my father. A lifetime of hopes and fears, victories and defeats... reduced to a name etched on crumbling stone. It feels so... insubstantial.
Dervis:Our bodies are insubstantial. The soul is what matters. You can threaten a man, plunder his goods, torture his flesh, even take his life. But his soul is his own... no one can seize that.
Basim:There is no sign of him here.
[]
Hind: [gasp]
[]
Basim:My apologies, is Enkidu troubling you? This is not the way he usually acts.
Hind:He startled me, but I see now he means no disrespect to my late husband.
Basim:I am sorry for your loss. What is your name?
Hind:I am Hind.
Basim:And I am Basim... Tell me, Hind, how long have you been here?
Hind:I... I do not know. Time has no meaning anymore.
Basim:You must be exhausted. Allow me to escort you to your home.
Hind:You are very kind.
Dervis:I shall seek word of your father. If you need me, I'll be back at the tent.
[]
Basim:Forgive me if I am being too forward, but I assume your husband's passing was recent?
Hind:He has been gone three days... though he had been ill for a long time. He often suffered chest pains this past year.
Basim:Do you have children?
Hind:Two boys, both still young. My husband has left enough wealth to care for us until the boys are old enough to make their own way.
Basim:Your sons are waiting for you at home?
Hind:They are staying with relatives... I am not the company they deserve right now.
Basim:Your grief carries no shame, Hind... I too tasted its bitterness when I was a child and lost the people I cherished most.
Hind:Your parents?
Basim:My mother died young, and my father... It is complicated.
Hind:I am sorry.
Basim:Still, I was fortunate to find another family... in a manner of speaking.
Hind:The heavier man at the cemetery?
Basim:Heavier man? Do not let him hear you say that.
Hind:My husband grew heavy later in life... You might ask your friend if he suffers from chest pains and heart flutters.
Basim:I doubt he would appreciate the thought. In his mind, he remains in his prime, though his body says otherwise.
Hind:Then he is a typical man.
[]
Hind:We are nearly there. See, that is my home. And beside it, my husband's warehouse...
[]
Hind:That... that mark. They are here.
Basim:Who?
Hind:They... they came for my husband's valuables.
Basim:Robbers, then?
Hind:In the warehouse, you will find a small wooden case. It holds my beloved husband's portrait. I beg you, retrieve it for me, but do not endanger your life for anything else.
[]
Soon to Return
To those I love. The days are long, the sun cruel, but I endure I carry stone such that my hands no longer feel pain. Each coin I earn, I hide in the chest. For medicine and for the day we are together again, not only in dreams. Wait for me.
[]
To Those Who Find It
Gold will make a fine tribute to our masters. Strike swift, take the wagons unaware, and they will see favor in us.
[]
Basim:Are you hurt?
Servant:I am fine, thanks to you. I owe you my life. I will not forget it. Perhaps it is time I found another role in life... Something a bit safer.
[]
Basim:Hind will be relieved when I return this to her.
[]
Hind:Basim! Over here!
[]
Hind:Basim, I am relieved you managed to get out of there.
Basim:I believe this is yours.
[]
Hind:Thank you. Though it is nothing compared to what these criminals have stolen from many others all across AlUla.
Basim:Tell me more about them? "These criminals?"
Hind:There has always been lawlessness here, drawn by the caravan wealth. Yet recently, that lawlessness grows more united. Now they strike wherever they please. Sometimes the Caliph's men intervene, but it never ends well for them. For that reason, few dare to act now... the rest are too faint of heart.
Basim:You should not stay here. The robbers might come back.
Hind:You are right, they usually do not leave witnesses alive... Please, Basim, take me somewhere safe.
Basim:Where is safe?
Hind:Nimlot's house. I can send word for my children to join me there. I will show you the way.
Basim:And I will follow.
[]
Basim:The symbol on the warehouse—the vulture—what does it mean?
Hind:The robbers always leave that mark. To cause fear... No one opposes them and lives. Until now... Who are you, Basim?
Basim:Sometimes I wish I knew.
[]
Basim:You said the lawlessness has been unified...
Hind:His name is 'Abis.
Basim:'Abis. An unfortunate name. "The one who frowns." He must have been quite the delightful child to earn such a title from his parents.
Hind:He grew up here, always a thorn in our side. But now, he becomes more savage than ever.
[]
Hind:I am sure Nimlot will take me in...
Basim:Nimlot, who is he exactly?
Hind:A merchant, originally from Baghdad. Made his fortune in Misr (Egypt) and settled here in AlUla a few years back. He is a good man, steadfast and generous.
[]
Hind:For what it is worth, Basim, you have reignited my hope. It is time we people of AlUla fought back against the criminals.
Basim:Yes, but be cautious. I would not have my example cost the lives of the innocent, especially yours.
[]
Hind:Basim, a moment please!
[]
Hind:Basim, you have already done so much for me, but I have one last favor to ask...
Basim:I am listening.
Hind:If you happen upon any more stolen items, please bring them to me. I will see that they are returned to their rightful owners.
Basim:Of course. I will do what I can.
[]
Nimlot:Afterwards, once you are finished, I want you to -
[]
Nimlot:Hind?
Hind:Nimlot...
Nimlot:What has happened?
Hind:The robbers... They took nearly everything.
Nimlot:I will send some of my men to guard your home. Meanwhile, you are welcome under my roof.
[]
Nimlot:See that she is cared for.
[]
Hind:May God protect you.
Basim:And may God protect you.
Hind:And if you need me, you will find me here.
[]
Nimlot:You... You are one of them. I am no threat... though I am aware of your kind. My apologies, but I am in a state of abject terror being in your presence.
Basim:I would have guessed mere nervousness. Yet, if it comforts you, know that appearances deceive. I did not come to AlUla seeking bloodshed, even if a touch of it found me. Now, tell me, how do you know of my people?
Nimlot:In Baghdad, at the Caravanserai... A soap mill owner... Though there were rumors he was something more. Something... darker. I was in the city on that day. I did not witness the deed, but saw the aftermath... a throat slit, carcass hanging from a balcony.
Basim:Al-Ghul...
Nimlot:That was not the name I heard whispered.
Basim:More of a... description. The man you speak of was Mas'ood Al-Ya'qoob... It was a righteous kill.
Nimlot:I must take your word for it. May I ask your role in today's ordeal?
Basim:I was present and chose to intervene.
Nimlot:You say you were "present"...?
Basim:My name is Basim. I came to AlUla in search of my father, Ishaq ibn Khalid. You know him?
Nimlot:The name, it is familiar, but... no.
Basim:It has been many years since I last saw him. I have recovered one of his possessions, likely stolen from him. If he fell prey to these same robbers, I must learn all I can about them. Swiftly.
Nimlot:The market. It is the heartbeat of AlUla... If you intend to seek out these men, begin there.
[]
Nimlot:Basim? The men you seek... are dangerous, even for you... Nevertheless, I understand you may have no choice but to tread this path. I lost a loved one recently... and I... would stop at nothing to be reunited with them.
Obscure Deeds
[]
Basim:Young lady, what troubles you that you weep so bitterly?
Young woman:Let me be. Let me die.
Basim:Do not say such things. What is the trouble that brings these tears to your eyes?
Young woman:The courtyard. I left something within its walls that I must retrieve. I must! But those horrible men, they will not allow me inside.
Basim:What do they say? What is happening within its walls?
Young woman:I am afraid to ask. They frighten me. Would you try to get it for me please? My journal. It is everything to me.
Basim:I will try.
[]
Journal Excerpt
My father plans to marry me off as if I were a prize—but I am not his to give. He possesses no regard for my heart's desires. His ears are closed to my cries. Such a man can not be a father to me and I will not abide his wishes. His blind insistence will be met with a woman's wrath.
[]
Basim:I have learnt some things about your story, as you well expected to hear upon my return.
Young woman:Then you have retrieved my journal. Will you please return it to me?
Basim:There were a hundred ways you might have found to avoid spilling his blood.
Young woman:No! He...
Basim:The authorities will see this and decide your fate, not I.
Young woman:No...
Basim:By all accounts, your father seems to have been a wicked man, and although one might argue that he did not deserve to die... You did not deserve the fate that he had in store for you.
Young woman:Then you understand.
Basim:Perhaps I understand enough. Be well.
Creative Interpretations
Historian:Friend! Friend! Please. A moment, please.
Basim:Yes? How can I help you, old man?
Historian:Thank you for stopping, friend. I am a historian and teacher here from Baghdad on a mission of academic research.
Basim:I imagine there is much to study and explore here in AlUla.
Historian:Oh yes. The carvings in the rocks here at Jabal Ikmah date back many centuries. My students are examining them now.
Basim:Students? Where are they?
Historian:That is the very reason I called to you. Three of them have been gone a very long time. I begin to worry.
Basim:I am sure they are in no danger.
Historian:Safe? Yes, of course. But doing their work? This is what concerns me. Would you mind checking on them? My legs do not do the work of a younger man any longer.
Basim:Of course.
[]
Basim:Let us see what these students are up to.
[]
Basim:Your interest in these carvings suggest you are a student of such artifacts. Is that correct?
Student:Hello friend. Yes, I am considering their meaning. May I ask what you think of this one?
Basim:I am no scholar, but this looks to me like a hunting party of some sort. Though what they are after, I cannot say.
Student:To a layman's eye perhaps, but if I pointed out that what you see are frogs celebrating the harvest, what do you see now?
Basim:Frogs?
Student:A folk tale, my friend. Surely not true frogs. However, I enjoyed your dismay at my words. You see it now, of course.
Basim:Oh, yes.
[]
Basim:A student of old carvings, are you?
Student 2:You have a keen eye. May I ask what you see in this relic of the past?
Basim:To my reckoning, it resembles a field, one arrayed with a type of crop. But please, tell me what you see.
Student 2:I see your confusion. However, it is really a carving of a traditional flatbread covered with muhammara.
Basim:Ah, thank you for opening my eyes to these insights.
Student 2:It is my duty and pleasure.
[]
Basim:Pardon my interruption, but are you a student of these works?
Student 3:Yes, that is right! In fact, if I may trouble you momentarily, I would ask your view on this artifact.
Basim:I could only guess that it depicts an ancient deity of some sort. A creature invented in a legend.
Student 3:Your attempt shows thoughtfulness. But we need not read so much into such things. Artists represent daily life too.
Basim:So they do. And what daily occurrence does this artwork represent to you?
Student 3:It merely record the birth of a five-legged cow to a village. Nothing more.
Basim:Oh, yes of course. Thank you. I will be on my way now.
[]
Historian:Ah, by the look on your face I can see that at the very least my students have not been devoured by leopards.
Basim:I can tell you that their bodies do not appear damaged. Their eyes however...
Historian:I take it they shared with you some of their findings. Tell me, what have they surmised from the stone carvings?
Basim:One described a large frog that could have been dancing. Perhaps celebrating a bountiful harvest.
Historian:A frog? And dancing no less! I already know the inattentive one who said this.
Basim:A student said that one of the carvings looked like a piece of khubz (bread) with some muhammara on it.
Historian:They said this? What nonsense! Good for nothing rascal will never become a true historian if he keeps this up.
Basim:Your student said the etching was of an animal giving birth. A cow, to a five-legged calf.
Historian:Who said this? Which one? It was Yusuf, wasn't it? That son of a donkey! Back to being a stable boy for him!
Basim:I am certain his appreciation for the subtle beauty of those paintings will improve with your sage counsel.
Historian:You are most kind and generous with your words. Many thanks for your assistance. Be well in your journeys.
Basim:You are doing good work here. Teaching young people about the region's heritage is a noble calling. Goodbye.
The Sand Artist
Artist:You, stranger! Over here!
Basim:Well met. How may I help you?
Artist:I have labored on this piece for many days.
Basim:You have done excellent work.
Artist:So it seems from where I stand. To be certain, I must see how it appears from above. Perhaps you could climb that rock formation and tell me how it looks from the summit? Or find any other way to view it from on high, whatever method you prefer.
Basim:It will be done.
[using enkidu]
Basim:From a bird's-eye vantage, it appears all the more grand.
[]
Artist:Help me! These leopards are upon me!
[kill]
Basim:You are safe now.
Artist:Thank you. I cherish my art, but I am glad I did not have to die for it.
Basim:As am I. From what I have seen, the world would be a poorer place without more of your work. But I will not always be here. Next time you venture into the wild, it would be wise to bring a companion to watch your back.
Artist:A sound counsel. I shall heed your advice.
Precious Bundle
Merchant:Have you come to fulfil the contract?
Basim:How may I aid you?
Merchant:I am late with my delivery. One final bundle lies at the rear of the house, but it is heavy and I cannot lift it. Venture there and retrieve the goods for me.
Basim:I will do so without delay.
Merchant:The goods are inside a chest. Handle them gently, for their worth is great and they must not suffer damage.
Basim:I will bear them as if they were my own.
[]
Civilian:Help! Help!
[open door and helps person up]
Basim:Does any wound trouble you?
Civilian:I suffer no lasting injury, thank God! That merchant who sent you here is no honest trader but a robber in disguise. He lures workers with offers of coin, sedates them with foul fumes, and delivers them to his comrades for ransom.
Basim:I will see this impostor dealt with.
[]
Basim:I must confront this merchant.
[]
Basim:I found your last victim inside the house... He spoke freely.
Merchant:Victim? What victim? I know nothing of such a person.
Basim:Spare me the lies. The only reason you still draw breath is because your hand holds no weapon.
Fake Merchant:What do you intend to do with me?
Basim:You shall learn in the moments to come...
[assassination]
Transcription
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My Beautiful Bahja
Basim:You seek some assistance?
Farmer:For the sake of my beautiful Bahja, I have come far to buy the resin of the poppy, and paid handsomely for it.
Basim:Bahja? I take it she is ill?
Farmer:Her teeth trouble her greatly, poor girl. She cannot chew a single mouthful, and I fear she will waste away.
Basim:So you no longer posses the resin?
Farmer:It was seized by a band of crooked soldiers located in this camp.
Basim:I will retrieve the resin and return it to you.
Farmer:I beg you, sneak in and avoid shedding blood. See those robbers over there? Doubtless they covet the resin as well.
[]
Basim:For poor Bahja's sake, I must make haste.
[]
Basim:These rogues know how to move unseen. I must not let them reach the prize before me.
[]
Basim:In stealth, these fools are no match for a Hidden One. With this resin, Bahja's pain will soon be eased.
[]
Basim:Well met again.
Farmer:You are back!
Basim:Here is the poppy resin, and no blood was spilled in its retrieval.
Farmer:Thank you! Bahja, the sweetest of all camels, will be most grateful.
Basim:Bahja is a camel?
Farmer:What else could she be? Now then, time to administer this resin.
Player Of Games
Basim:I gather you are in need of assistance?
Organizer:Indeed. As you are likely aware, I am AlUla's organizer of grand diversions.
Basim:Grand diversions?
Organizer:A neighbouring shaykh comes to strike a pact of trade, and our merchants wish to honor him. Among the entertainments, there is to be a contest of speed and skill of my devising. But first, I require someone to test the design. Your task is simple - shatter the pots in the allocated time. Any means are acceptable. Even explosives may be used.
Basim:I will meet your challenge.
Organizer:When I give the command, your trial begins at the first step.
[]
Organizer:Now, are you ready?
Basim:Let us begin.
Organizer:Let the trial commence!
[]
Organizer:Let the trial be concluded!
[]
Basim:The task is complete.
Organizer:Your speed was most commendable, yet it is my design that bears the mark of greatness.
Basim:You honor me with your praise.
Organizer:Yes, yes, though the lion's share of that praise goes to me.
Managed Misfortunes
Merchant:Come, friend! Over here!
Basim:How may I be of service?
Merchant:A band of four robbers keep attacking my caravans.
Basim:What would you have me do?
Merchant:Their camp is at Al Khuraymat. Deal with them so they never trouble me again. But please, let their deaths seem like misfortune... Otherwise I may face retribution.
Basim:All who perish, either these four or any who get in my way, shall bear the mark of mischance, nothing more.
[]
Basim:It is done. To any who chance upon them, the dead will appear to be the most unlucky scoundrels to have ever roamed this land.
[]
Basim:Time to leave.
Free the Animals
Dead Man's Note
To the one who finds this,
I write with my life's ebbind breath. I watched the robbers from this very campfire, marking their cruel trade in injured beasts. But then they found me - tortured me, left me to die amid the sands.
If you hold this, please free the wounded animals and protect them from their tormentors.
- A dying man beneath the stars.
[]
Basim:This is the place.
[]
Basim:Time to leave.
To Save A Wedding
Merchant:Come! Please! I have urgent work for you!
Basim:How may I serve you?
Merchant:My son is to be wed.
Basim:Surely congratulations are in order?
Merchant:Alas, your goodwill may prove premature.
Basim:I pledged the gift to the bride's father, a token of honor for our families. But earlier today, robbers fell upon us and seized the valuables, sharing them among their three chiefs.
Merchant:You would have me recover your son's gift?
Basim:Without it, the wedding contract is void. I would bring shame upon myself, and my son's joy would be shattered. The robbers' camp lies in the Southern Wilderness. If you can, do not draw attention to yourself. A subtle theft would serve us best.
[]
Basim:I must try to relieve the three chiefs of their treasures with subtle hands.
[]
Basim:I recovered the valuables, and no one is the wiser.
Merchant:That is wonderful news. You have my eternal gratitude. As a token of my thanks, and atop the agreed fee, allow me to offer you my eldest daughter's hand in marriage. She is a worthy woman. Though still mourning her first husband, her skill at the hearth is unmatched.
Basim:Shukran laka, but my vices are many. I would make for a poor husband and a worse son-in-law.
Merchant:As you wish. But do not be too hard on yourself! A few vices aside, you are clearly a man of quality.
Wares and Shadows
Basim must investigate the robbers' activities in the hope that this leads him closer to Ishaq.
