What's the Plan, Stan?

Setekh was passively standing among the group, absorbing Talyssa's words as they cut through the winter air. Watching her gesture toward the dormant quicksand, he recognized the truth in her assertion: strength and speed alone could not conquer every challenge. Fools did not live long, unless by blind luck.

Her approach -- observation, contemplation, and execution; key principles. Observation required looking beyond the surface, seeing signs that indicated hidden dangers. Contemplation involved assessing information and weighing options, a skill Setekh valued for its role in careful planning. Execution was about precision and decisiveness, ensuring survival through calculated actions. Yes, yes... The Ivory God fixed his gaze on the woman's face, wondering if this land held more old souls like herself. How wonderful. Intelligence was quite... attractive.

As Talyssa continued to instruct the group, Setekh remained silent, absorbing her words.

Her demonstration of calm, decisive execution ran through his mind. Her foot hovered, testing the ground, before she deftly identified the hidden quicksand. Her words about flexibility and adaptability, her emphasis on changing strategies when needed -- he listened intently. Transfixed.

As Talyssa concluded her lesson with a grin and a relaxed stance, Setekh remained a perfect student. Though this was more of a refresh to knowledge long imparted to him. Her teachings on observation, contemplation, and execution were not new to him, but her method of conveying them was compelling. He stored this moment in his memory, which was an honor in and of itself. "Such a sharp mind you have. Did you know, this lesson could also be applied to other souls? Quite unsettling when you think about it; the quicksand being replaced by an enemy."