Alexander came to a halt as another spike of pain drove through his brain, loosening his tenacious hold on Larion. The insight into Larion's condition was hardly helpful and only served to worry him more. If Larion was plagued then what would happen to him? What would happen to Alexander? He tilted his head at the sound of hooves slamming into the ground behind him. Imgor he assumed, no one else would have any reason to be out here at this time.

Alexander noted the question and tried to formulate a response. Alright would be a dramatic overstatement, but could he make it to the castle? Would that even help? Of course it would, surely once Joshua became aware of the situation he would know what to do to fix it. [b]"Just... tired and a bit of a headache is all."[/b] he replied and started walking again, standing a little straighter, still using his staff as a walking stick. He had to get to Joshua. For Larion's sake. 

"Really? It doesn't look like just a headache, you are using your staff as a walking stick at this age." Imgor was a little bit worried, now that he had a better look at both. "Do you need a ride?"

Alexander shrugged. He wasn't sure if the doubtless worsening of his condition from the horse ride would be worth the speed. Did he trust in his own strength enough?  Yes. [b]"Its fine I assure you. Though I can use a ride."[/b] Alexander said quitely and prepared himself. He leapt onto the horse in a surprisingly smooth motion given his condition. [b]"Lets get going."[/b]

The moment Alexander was on Imgor's horse, he kicked its flanks softly, ordering it to quickly gallop towards the castle. Hopefully Larion could keep up with it in his condition. "If it doesn't bother you, may I ask if you know the reason for your current condition?" He might as well find out more on the ride.

Alexander merely grunted, making his response to the question rather clear. His focus was divided enough as it was trying to stay mounted while maintaining his grip on Larion's slippery mental state, trying to explain what happened when he barely understood it himself wouldn't be doing anyone any favors.

The rest of the trip to the castle was spent in utter silence, Larion all the while barely keeping up with them. The trip made it difficult for Alex to concentrate, however it was just enough to not lose his familiar to whatever force was trying to yank him away.

As they reached the flight of stairs that led to the main gate of the castle the two took note of the scorched remains at the bottom of those stairs.

Considering it was a bad idea for a horse to trot over stairs with two people on it, Imgor decided it would be best to stop here and walk the rest on foot.

Alexander managed to slip off the horse without collapsing to the ground. He slowly began walking down the stairs after Imgor. Where in the nine was Joshua and what were they doing at this place?