"Krogan was the first and only Cheiftan to bring the Varuk tribes together in peace. His strength was unmatched, they say he was a giant of a man, dwarfing even the largest Varuk. When he passed they made a temple for him to rest in." Valia recalled, becoming more relaxed with the group around her.

"Ah, no fair, you're a local!" Sahale started with a smile. "But yes, that's the one. Well, then do you also know the tales of the Oracle and the Vanishing Kingdom? The, uh, treasures of the world perhaps? Yes, no, maybe? And how about the return of Gruskan Empire, eh? That one is a bit more fresh though, so if not I would completely understand. I mean, a whole town was just wiped off the map but it was only, what two weeks ago?" He let that stay in the air for a moment before he continued, his tone a bit lower than before. "I figure news might not officially reach here for another few days," he sighed and shook his head, "You see.... I have done a bit of reading....and I'd wager.... some things are more connected than you would think. And when you notice a client getting quite involved in old fairy tales, you wonder about them yourself."

"Dammit, I probably said to much now," Sahale reached up and scratched the back of his neck, and when he dropped his arm down, it was a slight of hand, but a trained eye would see a knife dart away from his dropping hand, a little to late to stop as it buried itself in the forehead of one of the guards that rushed in to asses what was happening to Valia earlier. He instantly slumped to the floor. The second guard yelled out in surprise, but it wasn't long before he was bleeding from his side and back, falling over and landing on his comrade. In a smooth movement, Sahale had went from feigning scratching his neck, to drawing and throwing a blade that was hidden in his collar, while his hand was low he had drawn a katar, which he used to slice across the man's side while he casually side stepped around the shocked man and then punched quickly into his upper spine between the shoulder blades, with accurate precision to cut the spinal chord, making the man lose control of his legs instantly, the cut to his side reached the shirtless man's kidney, he would be dead before long... The movement was casual, almost as if Sahale didn't even do it, but was just brushing by them until the final strike. It seemed unnaturally fluid, like it was as easy as breathing.

Valia shrieked out in terror which alerted some of the others in the temple, but Sahale held up a finger to his lips as he walked on to the opposite side of the dead men from the rest of the grou, "Shhhh, none to worry, these aren't the reputable guard sort you think they are. Here..." He squatted down and pick pocketed both of the men. From their corpses they each had a small stone with a carving in it....bearing the Calabris symbol. He tossed one of them to Allanon and the other to Kistal. Allanon may recognize them as tokens given to mercenary hires that were not directly associated with the Calabris family. "Interesting isn't it? That first one was quite intent on our discussion, and if you give a hard look at their features, they don't quite match those of Varuk who stay here. Travelers, maybe, but guards? Nah... Alright then, go let the chief know you are joining the volunteer force, I'll be there after running an errand. Hopefully, you will start connecting the dots, but do make sure you don't blab it everywhere. Never know if there are more of these guys milling about," he finished, lightly kicking the corpses.

Kistal listened to the man's words carefully, committing the intonation and general pattern to memory as well as the information. His manner of speech seemed he was being genuine, but Kistal wanted to know what exactly happened should he need it. After the grim display, he caught the stone and narrowed his eyes at the marking. "Yes, I will let him know. I have something to attend to first." He left swiftly, disappearing back into the temple. He sought out the Red Saints and hailed them.

Meanwhile, Chihiro watched from the dispersing crowd, seeing the odd group. The woman that shrieked was familiar to her, so if she trusted the group, Chihiro felt no need to defend her. However, they were specifically listening to the chief and outfitted for battle, so she assumed they were volunteering. As such, she walked over to them and raised a hand to grab their attention. "Ah, more volunteers. It seems we will be working together to rid the world of this stain. I am Inquisitor Chihiro Aozaki. You may shorten it to Chihiro or Inquisitor Aozaki as desired. If you have any information to help me understand the situation, I am all ears."

Allanon had noticed the onlooking guards much like Sahale, however, he had no choice but to admit his solution would have been much less smooth. Killing in such a rehearsed fashion was clear sign of a skilled assassin. Probably the best that he had ever met aside from his old team in their prime. Allanon was no stranger to dealing with opponents strong in techniques of feinting, however, one as skilled as Sahale would be a great challenge to overcome if he were an active opponent.

He caught the token and glowered at it. "Well... this just a lot bigger than a simple rescue." His tone made it clear he did not like the implications of this mission.

Allanon felt like he hardly got any information from Sahale. Certainly not enough to warrant a payment of any kind. However, he already agreed to the conditions set by the man, and he would not be one to go back on his word. Sure, he was given a lot of random information, vague words, and veiled threats, but essentially this all boiled down to go to the volunteer force. Entirely worthless. He would have likely joined or at the very least followed the voluntary force. Whatever he learned from there he would have dealt with as appropriate. At the very least the assassin could have given an exact location, after all he probably knew.

As Sahale and the beastman went to deal with their errands, Allanon turned to Valia. He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Who do you trust that can keep you safe? I'll escort you to them. I'll be joining the volunteer expedition afterwards."

Allanon turned to face Chihiro as she introduced herself. He scanned her cautiously. Inquisitor was not a human title he was familiar with, however, he knew of a few humans that have earned an honorable title among beastman tribes. "Greetings, Chihiro, I am Allanon. I do indeed intend to join the volunteer troop as soon as Madame Valia is somewhere safe. Calabris spies and assassins could be anywhere, and until their operation is dealt with she is still at risk. Money is all they care about, so as soon as their ventures here become too costly they should leave."

He would not tell much else considering how little he truly knew about their operation here.

@13org@Jollan

As the tavern owner asked Anrak to remove his helmet, the large man hesitated for a moment before obliging. "Course I can take off me helm, where are me manners?" As he removed his metal helm, a slow yet soft scraping noise could be heard.  As he set the helmet upon the table, the other denizens within the tavern would see a scarred, leathery tough face, the mans head was shaved and adorned by crudely hacked off stubs of what were once very clearly horns. "Most folk I've run inta ain't too friendly toward indahviduals like meself." the massive man huffed as he clasped his cup and began taking large gulps of its precious hydrating contents.

As he listened to what was said, he paused as he heard something about kidnappings taking place. "There a problem that needs fixin round here?" he asked the innkeeper as his beautiful daughter left the inn, headed to some form of town gathering. If there was anything Anrak could do to start making a name for himself, he'd happily jump at the chance.

Her usual smile dissipated and turned into an unhappy snarl as she heard of Calabris involvement. "I swear, many of the world's problems could be stopped by destroying that group. If they are involved, we need to approach carefully as it may not just be an underground crew. They often have actual military units or perhaps allied mages and warriors. You are correct that hitting their purse is a good way to repel them, but if they are specifically targeting Krogan's legacy, then it may take more." She remembered Krogan. He was an honest man and a good chieftain. "If we can save the ruins, I would like to. I have good memories of that place." She did not mention why she really wanted to keep the ruins safe. She had a couple items hidden there as keepsakes to remember her time as Krogan's friend.

The shapeshifted naga stepped closer to Valia once she felt her conversation with Allanon had reached a relatively natural conclusion. "Valia, dear, you have grown since I last saw you. Are you in good enough shape to give an old friend a hug?" She opened her arms, obviously ready to give a huge hug to the girl. She had been away a long time and Valia was one of the closest friends she had last time.

Allard nodded to the Anrak, "Most folk 'round here appreciate a person who puts in an honest day's work. We got enough things ta worry about in this desert, we don't have time ta nit pick who looks like what. As far as troubles, well.... there had been some disappearances, and apparently Madame Valia was attacked. She'll be staying here until it is all sorted out. Not many dumb enough ta try anythin' in here." After that, he heard Maeve speak about not being able to see the dance while she as here and her thoughts regarding the kidnappings. "Tha Red Saints at the temple should 'ave her all fixed up, but I wouldn't guess she'd be in any state ta dance for a bit. Probly needs 'er rest. Whoever this person behind this is, may fin himself on tha sharp end of a Varuk Axe. Plenty o' fathers out here wondrin' where their baby girl has gone, wouldn't even blink if they had ta kill at least a dozen men each ta bring em back." Allard's arms were crossed now as he looked out the window, watching after his daughter.



Valia's eyes seem to light up when Chihiro arrived. Despite her recently healed injuries, she seemed to almost leapt into Chihiro's embrace! "Chihiro! It's been so long! I have missed you!" When the embrace ended she pulled away but still held her hands. "I only wish that it was under better circumstances... I had become the Master of Dance for Kalla, but now my students have gone missing, and this morning was was attacked by two men from this... Calabris family... But I am l glad you are here! I would show you to my home, but... You know, that blue sash you gave me those years ago. I kept it all this time as a good luck charm. I didn't think I would need it in the way you mentioned till now. Steel wire in a sash never quite made sense to me, but it made quick work of one of my attackers."

While the group was busy with the Naga, the two corpses disappeared, most likely Sahale's handiwork as he was gone as well, though there was no blood trail to be seen....or footsteps for that matter. Soon, they were approached by a young girl in armor, the one Kistal would recognize as Hilde. She gave a bow and dressed them, though she didn't recognize Chihiro, as she would have been a toddler last Chihiro was here, "Madame Valia, Whenever you are ready, father told me that your room is ready for you whenever you wish to retire."

"Ah, thank you dear. Tell Allard I will be with him shortly," Valia said as she returned the bow. Hilde nodded and waved to Kistal as she made her way back to the inn.



Hilde returned inside and saw everyone, well, Anrak, her father, and Maeve, seemed to be watching. She shifted a bit bashfully before speaking. "Madame Valia said she would be here shortly t rest. And it seems the cheif is preparing to go on an expedition to look for the missing girls and the people responsible. He is looking for volunteers t-"

"You are not going," Allard cut in, knowing where she was headed with it. Hilde's ears slightly seemed to droop a tad. "You are a Temple Guard. If you go running off while everyone else is out chasing these people, who will protect the temple? Or Kalla for that matter? Tha sands out there are ruthless Hilde, I'm only worried about you. You are strong, but if lost you ta that desert, I don't know what I'd do. Now come along, I'm sure your mother could use a hand." It was obvious this wasn't the first time they had this conversation. Hilde reluctantly went to the back to change and get ready to help around the inn. "I apologize. I hope I didn't sour your appetite.... Kids are a worsome lot, eh?" he said with a wry grin, shaking his head. "It may be selfish, but I'm not sure I'm strong enough to risk letting her go out there in that desert and never return. There are things out there that can tear a man limb from limb without any trouble whatsoever." He sat for a moment before getting back to work. "If ya need anythin' let me know, till then, I'll keep an eye out for our guest."

Kistal noticed Hilde's wave and returned it with a smile. She was a nice woman, so he felt it would be a good refreshing change of pace to get to know her. He knew a good few genuine people, but they were all in the Red Saints and had to deal with the Portea politics. Hilde was removed enough to not be too stressed out by it. He made his way back to the group, noticing a new arrival. "Well, it seems we have a new person. I am Kistal, a satyr from Portea."

Chihiro gave Valia a hug for a good ten seconds, ending it with a kiss on Valia's cheek. "Well, that scarf was both fashionable and functional. I knew one day you may need something good for a parry, so I made sure that would suffice. It can even be used as a bit of rope in a pinch." She rubbed the girl's hands as they spoke. Once she finally left for the inn, Chihiro smiled and began to make her way there after nodding to Kistal. "Inquisitor Chihiro Aozaki is my name. I will be part of the volunteer force."

While Maeve was polite enough not to look at the large man directly or at least make it so it would be almost imperceptible she was looking at him, it became quite obvious not only for herself, but to almost everyone inside the inn that he was quite an... exotic individual. The audible scraping made it even more obvious that he used to have two horns on his head and his scarred face gave him a tough appearance. It also made it even more strange why he specifically asked to be served something other than ale.

Other than the massive, bald, horned man, Maeve noticed when the innkeeper mentioned that the dancer, Madame Valia would stay at that very inn until things became calmer. It would be a good chance for Maeve to ask a few things not only about the city, but about the traditional dance that she was also curious about.

"Oh, so she is staying here? It would be interesting to meet her and talk a little once she rested a bit." Maeve said, turning to the large innkeeper with a discreet smile.

It didn't take long until the innkeeper's daughter came back from her task. While she did mention Madame Valia would soon arrive, she also said that there was going to be a small expedition to look for both the missing girls and the people who were responsible for the kidnappings. While she didn't really mention that she wanted to go, her father saw through her, immediately prohibiting her to go.

"Oh, don't worry about it. There is nothing wrong in a father worrying about his daughter!" Maeve said, with a giggle after the exchange between father and daughter and the innkeeper apologizing for it. IT was honestly refreshing to see a father worrying about his daughter.

"I would have no problems in helping but I'm not sure if I would be ok going to the desert with this heat..." Maeve said to the girl with a chuckle.

"Do you know when said expedition will depart? The desert temperature is much better for an Isoli at night." she asked, curious. Depending on her answer she would volunteer herself. After all, Maeve didn't want to further stress Madame Valia by not letting her rest even after all that happened. She was sure she would have more than enough time to talk once after she was well rested.

Allanon nearly smiled at Chihiro's response to his, however, the Calabris were not worthy of such a reaction even in regards to speaking poorly of them. The only thing that would get him to smile over them would be for justice to be brought down on their evil actions and for their punishment to bring them to obscurity and beyond. The last thing she said caught him off guard. It was almost as if she knew Krogan. If that was the case, she definitely was not human.

After he spoke to Valia about escorting her someone she appeared to be familiar with approached and told her about her available room. It seemed his words were wasted. "I see you will be fine. You have an incredible community here, Madame Valia. Portea would learn much from Kalla." If Portea's community was half as supportive as Kalla would Allanon have the Sword of Damocles hanging over him today?

He smile a short farewell smile before turning and heading toward the volunteer squad. "I'll volunteer. Call me Allanon."

"Well, again, thank you. It saved my life," Valia aid with a little bow. "I should probably retire for the day, there has been more than enough excitement to last me quite some time I think. Allard finally settled down and set up his own proper tavern and inn, and that was his daughter just a moment ago, so if you want to come by later I am sure I am not the only one who will be happy to see you." She turned to Allenon after his comment on the village, "I thank you for all of your help today. If it wasn't for your quick acting, I may have never been able to recover from my injuries. The people of Kalla keep tight to an old saying, 'if a people can not stand together, then they will never stand at all'. On one's own, one can only be so powerful. It is this bond that all people in Kalla share that makes us stronger than any trail we face. If Portea is as divided as you make it out to be, one day it will surely lead to ruin." She bowed to him as well, though, as she did this, it seemed the small group of volunteers had arrived back at the square and started talking with the chief. "It would seem like they are nearly ready to depart, I shouldn't keep any of you any further. Please, do be careful out there. I hope to be able to thank and welcome you all properly upon your return." With that, she bid them farewell for now, and walked towards the inn. Even while she was still recovering from an injury, her gait was... hypnotic. Years of practice now routine even in something so simple.



"Aye, the desert may be cold at night enough for ya ta travel, but I'd warn ya about travlin' in the day. Even seasoned hunters can perish in those sands should he not be prepared, and thats not even mentionin' tha creatures that one would come across. Yur eagerness ta help is a blessing in itself , lass, but I would not recommend ya go with them, may Krogan watch o'r tha ones that do." There was then a sound of the front doors opening as Valia stepped into the inn. "Valia, girl, are you alright?" Allard asked.

"I am fine Allard, thank you. Some foreigner found me and was able to get me to the red saints fast enough. I shouldn't be too active for a while, but they said I should make a full recovery, and the scouting party is preparing to leave now," She smiled as Allard seemed to let go a sigh of relief. "Oh, and I see that we have even more foreign visitors today." She did a small bow towards Anrak and Maeve, "I'm sorry you had to arrive on such strenuous circumstances." She didn't tell Allard about Chihiro, she wantedit to be a surprise. He wasn't as close as she was to her, but he still knew her. He was just normally off on hunts or conflicts when he was still a warrior of Kalla.



Most the volunteers ranged in various ages, with different types of gear and weapons as well. It seemed Kalla had no standard military past the few guards that roamed around. One of the odd ones out was a human looking young man in a red Jacket and sandy blonde hair. He didn't seem to be a Varuk villager from Kalla. In fact, if one was well traveled enough, they could probably pinpoint him being a Trantian. He did seem to keep to himself a bit, though it didn't look like it was to be rude, simply, he didn't know anyone there.

As for the other volunteers, they were a bit put off by the number of foreign people participating in their scouting mission. When Allenon approached and gave his name, the chief walked up to him, His eyes from at least half a foot above the man seemed to stare into Allenon's soul, like the man was assessing him before even saying a word. "I am chief Dorran, leader of this village. What brings you to volunteer, Allenon? I will not reject the aid, should it be just that. Though if I find deceit in your actions, I will bring you down. Are these others accompanying you as wel-" Dorran seemed to stop when he saw Chihiro. Not because he didn't mean his word, but because e was surprised to see her, as well as some of the other volunteers. "My, to what do we owe this pleasure of your return? It has been quite some time! I only wish that I had prepared a feast to welcome you back instead of a mission. Are you planning on volunteering as well? If these people are friends of yours, I'd be honored to let them accompany us as well." Apparently, Chihiro was quite a well known and liked figure in Kalla, for those that could remember her.

"ALRIGHT EVERYONE, PREPARE TO MOVE OUT!" Dorran shouted for everyone to hear, his voice even carrying well into the buildings around them including the temple and inn. "We will head up to the sandskiffs. We will need at least two firekin per skiff to move efficiently on rotation. How many do we have?" the chief asked the group. Everyone looked about as two men and one woman stepped forward. "Gortig, Hendall, and Morna... hmmm. I will help with one of the sails. I commend you three for volunteering. This won't be like a regular hunting outing. It will be a lot more taxing. Are you prepared?"

"Yes, Chief!" they said in unison.

"Morna, this is your first time sandriding, so you will be on rotation with me, I will guide you and help keep us going. Gortig, Hendall, you two are sailing regulars, I know at least you two together can at least keep up with me," Dorran said with a bit of a chuckle. "The foreigners, Chihiro, and you two will ride with me," he continued, picking out another two men that looked like seasoned warriors, "the rest of you ride with Gortig and Hendall. Alright, get set, and prepare for my signal to leave, I want to be out of here in no more than ten minutes." With that, everyone started to move towards the north end of town, just under a small cliff-side where it seemed to be a port for small odd skiffs. Two sturdy looking wooden drills, reinforced with metal plating, adorned the sides of a decent sized deck with a three foot walled edge to keep people from falling out or to take cover from arrows or similar projectiles. The deck has enough room for a small group of people to mill about, room for any haul from hunting, and a place for one person to sit recessed into the deck. This recess had mechanized contraptions running from it to the two pontoon-like drills on the sides of the craft. There were no controls however, just open channels that seemed to be where arms rested.

As everyone boarded the two skiffs, Dorran took it upon himself to teach Morna how to use it. "As a firekin, you of course have the power to summon and manipulate fire. When sitting here in this recess, you let your power flow evenly to both of the sand screws to move us forward. Which ever side has more fire will make the craft turn in the opposite direction, so more power to the right screw will make us turn left," Dorran explained while the young firekin girl nodded, taking in the information. "Just watch as I start us off, then you will be able to give it a go when we make our first rotation."

While there were some who had volunteered themselves to go, Maeve herself would have to decline as she would follow Allard's advice. She knew very well that she wouldn't be that helpful outside, especially with such temperature. While, as Allard himself said, the desert at night was indeed closer to the temperatures an Isoli would be comfortable with, the scout party was about to depart, judging by what has been said.


"Unfortunately, I will have to decline then. If they were going at night, then it was another story, but the local temperature isn't really kind to an Isoli." Maeve said with a gentle expression, agreeing with Allard's advice.

"Even though the desert might be dangerous, I am more than just capable in combat though! Sadly, I can't do anything about the sun now, can I?" Maeve finished with a giggle.

Just as Maeve had finished, she heard someone entering the inn, followed by Allard greeting them, with a worried tone. It was Madame Valia, who had arrived to rest and recover from her wounds. As she greeted her and the strange half giant, Maeve stood up, greeting her back with a courteous and formal bow after she apologized for the current circumstances in the town. Madam Valia was a beautiful woman, with an exotic skin tone and beautiful, long braids that matched her skin tone.

"Madam Valia, it is a pleasure to meet you, despite the circumstances, that is." Maeve said with a gentle smile before sitting down again.

"Even though I arrived just recently, Allard told me about the recent events and what has been happening... Is is truly terrible... Even though I won't be able to help in the scouting party, I do hope they find the girls and the culprits behind all this." Maeve said.

"That said, would you like to join me for a small talk? It might be good to relax a bit and take your mind away from unpleasant thoughts. I will understand if you would prefer to retire yourself and rest though." Maeve asked, with a gentle expression as she looked to Madam Valia from where she was sitting.

@13org@Jollan

"No shame in tryin tah protect what ya love." Anrak said with a light chuckle as Allard sternly denied his daughter from participating in the scouting party, "Me own mother was the same with me back when I was just a wee lad." he mused for a moment before standing up with a hard snort from his nostrils.

"Don't cha worry yerself lass, I think I'll go in yer place... I been itchin' fer a good challenge anyway." he spoke, facing Hilde as he put his helmet back on with the same soft scraping noise. Turning to the innkeeper, Anrak said his goodbye, "I suppose that meal will hafta wait. If it wouldn't be too much trouble-- could ya keep an eye on me bag? It'd be a right pain tah carreh that along."

As he sauntered to exit the tavern, he passed the woman who he assumed was this 'madame Valia' the innkeeper had spoken of, and gave her a nod of courtesy.

Anrak heard the Chief's last summons just as he was stepping out the door, and made his slow pace just slightly more brisk. The massive man made it to the sand skiffs just as it seemed they were about to head out.

"You lot got room fer one more?" he hollared over as to make sure they didn't take off without knowing he was willing to volunteer.

Chihiro giggled cutely when the chief realized she was visiting again. "Oh dear, I'd almost say a mission to help out is far better than a feast. I want your people to be happy, healthy, and prosperous. But, after we take care of this, let us have a good meal for everyone. They will deserve it." She followed him, seeming to know what to do and where to go. It was obvious she was around these people relatively frequently. Anyone who remembered her was probably significantly younger when she last visited. They might be surprised at how little her appearance had changed since then. She was just as, if not more, vigorous than before.

She took a place at the head of the skiff, keeping an eternal watch. Her face settled into an almost unsettling calm as she scrutinized every detail of the terrain. She was keen to find the traces of their foe and end them properly.

Kistal heard the beckons and immediately went to the group. "Kistal, a satyr from Portea and ally of the Red Saints. I have quite a bit of vitriol for Calabris and would gladly help take them down, no payment or reward expected. In fact, in a few days, my barrels of various alcohol will be ready to drink, so instead I offer some treats for any future feasts or gatherings."

Once on the skiff, Kistal sat to one side, similarly keeping watch. His vigil could be unbroken, unlike the others. His ability to see and hear better also made him better suited to sentry work. His keen sense of smell led him to be wary of Chihiro, only slightly. She did not smell like a normal human, so she probably was not. However, she also did not try to hide anything it seemed, so he was content to let her tell them on her own time.

Kalla outskirts

The desert heat sucked, Sevuid thought to himself, wiping away the sweat from under the brim of his wide hat. His pale skin was not built for this kind of sun either, like many Sylve he grew up in The Scar, where it was cloudy more often than not and nowhere near as hot. Sadly, The Scar was no longer welcoming for him, and Portea was far too crowded.

Thankfully, despite his misgivings, he’d finally arrived at Kalla, meaning some semblance of shade and drinks. Maybe he could cool the drinks with his ice magic, he often heated food with the little fire magic he knew so why not the other way? If he was stuck here till the next convoy out of town he might have to learn to do that. Military magic training never covered the truly useful stuff.

Next issue, coin. Between the cost of a seat in the convoy that brought him here, food and drink he was low on funds. And it was remarkably hard to steal a drink and room to sleep.

Turning to look at the sights Sev blundered shoulder first into a human.

“Oh gods, I’m sorry,” Sev apologized, holding out a hand to help the man up, cradling his six-foot wooden staff against his shoulder.

“Not an issue,” the man grumbled, taking the offered hand before checking himself with a scowl, “where’s my coin purse?”

“Did you drop it?” Sev asked innocently, patting himself down before pulling a felt pouch from a pocket, “I’ve still got mine. What’s it look like?”

“Leather,” the man grunted, eyeing Sev skeptically, “got any others on you?”

“I should hope not,” the Sylve replied in shock, “though you’re welcome to check.”

The man angrily checked Sev’s pockets, sleeves and hands before grumbling something that sounded like an apology and turning back the way he’d come. Sev gave his well wishes as he walked into town himself. Once he was around the corner he smiled as the pouch waved, turning from felt to leather as he canceled the spell. He retrieved the coins from the pouch before carefully dropping it in the sands where no one could see.

Now with nine silvers, by his counting, Sev made his way through the city, looking for an Inn. Or Tavern. Or really anywhere with drinks, beds and shade. Like many desert cities Kalla was laid out haphazardly, clustered as close around the small oasis as possible. After a short walk through the market district he eventually found a building marked ‘Inn.’ Eager to be out of the heat Sev quickly entered, sighing as he entered the shade, removing his hat to shake free the sweat that had gathered in the fabric.

As a mage of some skill he could likely make money in other, less illegal, methods, but this was more fun. Maybe some day he’d settle down, get a ‘real’ job, but for now if he was forced to travel, he might as well explore the world. So far, however, this whole desert thing was a bust. Still better than guard duty, but not by much.

“I need a cold drink, and a room for the night,” Sev explained after he made his way to the bar, placing two silver on the surface. Sighing as he almost collapsed onto the stool he continued, “anything interesting going on in town? Don’t know how long I’m going to be here, might as well see the sights while I’m here.”

Allard nodded to what Anrak said to him as he was bringing out his food, only to chuckle a bit when he seemed to hurry out to meet up with the scouting party. He went ahead and set it down on the table, steam still coming off of it. When asked to keep an eye on the bag, Allard agreed and set it behind the counter.

"The pleasure is all mine, it's not every day we have so many visitors. I'm surprised Allard hasn't already tried to fill your head with stories of his glory days," Valia responded to Maeve with a chuckle.

"Well, thats b'cause she never asked! Ave my armor still on display here an never a word! Too worried about what was appenin' outside. A kind soul this one, was ready ta march out there ta join tha scoutin' party," Allard replied from the bar while cleaning some tankards. "Had ta advise against it, though. Wouldn't want 'er ta burn up on our account. Desert is brutal enough even for a a lone Varuk."

Valia nodded in agreement with Allard, as it did seem best for the Isoli woman to stay in town. "I appreciate your concern, for us, but I think they will be able to handle whatever comes their way. They will be out there for a few days at least, and once you are out in the desert, there is not much for even a sliver of shade." When Maeve offered to sit and talk, Valia smiled. It would be nice to talk about other things than what was going on, to be honest, she was quite tired of the situation and could use a distraction from it. "I would love too! As you know, I am Valia, the master of dance for Kalla. I teach the girls in town the art of traditional dance for festivities and ceremonies," then she added with a grin, "and, I suppose, for more entertainment purposes when the time is right." She then turned the focus to Maeve, "So what about you? What is your name, if you don't mind me asking? I know some travelers prefer not to share as much."

Hilde watched as Anrak left, a look of longing in her eyes, not at Anrak, but in the fact that he was going off to fight in what he said was her stead didn't set right with her. She sighed as she went to cleaning one of the tables. Her armor and weapons sat next to where her father's were, dwarfed by size of Allard's gear. It wasn't long before another patron came into the tavern that Hilde looked up from her work. She bowed to the man as he made his request, but she still seemed a little flustered as she went to the back to get his order.

Allard then walked up to met Sevuid at the counter. "Ah, furgive 'er, she's a bit sore that she wasn't able ta go on a scoutin' run. You could say we have had some interestin' things going about. A number of disappearences and the madame over there was assulted in her home today. We're sendin' out a volunteer group ta find tha ones responsable, but they are about gone by now," he said in a low tone, letting Valia have her small talk. "Hopefully they find em an string em up," he said as he reached down and took the coins, seeing they were silver, he made some change. "A drink an a room, eh? Here ya are," he handed Sevuid back a silver. "Room is only one silver, a drink and a meal are about five copper, but the man who was in here just recently had ta run. I know ya didn't ask fur it, but," He said as he made his way to the still fresh meal. He took it and set it in front of Sevuid. "May as well make use of it if yur hungry. Hilde will have a fresh drink fur ya shortly."



Bidzil was pleasently surprised at what seemed to be a large group of people from various places join the volunteer group as well. True, he was still in the same position as before in not knowing anybody, however, at least he wasnt the only foreigner here anymore. Bidzil took a position close to the front of the skiff as well, his legs folded crossways as he sat down. The chief ended up moving a few more of his men from his skiff to the other to make a weight balance for Anrak. Bidzil wanted to make some small talk beforehand, but he didn't want to waste time for the cheif, who already was reaering to gon most likely from the moment he called for the volunteer group hours ago.

Between the veteran skiff and the cheif's, the skiffs roared to life and immediately took traction to the sand, moving the skiffs forwad at quite a decent speed, making for a bit of a welcome breeze as they rode up the incline that split the cliff leading up to the sandy dunes above. "Hmmm, strange. My fire sems to be stronger today than usual...," the chief mentioned. "Must be a good omen." If anyone was keen on the world around them, them may notice that they feel more energized. Meanwhile Bidzil felt perfectly normal, sitting at the front of the skiff as well, anticipating the adventure. Anyone with gifts or magic affinity would feel that they are are bursting with power, almost like there was a need to let some of it off, as if their very own energies were trying to release, even causing the firekin's power to surge stronger than normal.

After they had been riding for a while, Bidzil looked around at those riding with him, and he saw that there was quite a number of people from all sorts of different places it seemed. He was curious and decided that he would like to try to get to know the people he was doing this scouting mission with. He twisted around where he sat and nodded to the ones who glances to him, Bidzil "Well, if we are all doing this together, why not we share our names? My Name is Bidzil, how about y'alls?" he said with a big grin, unknowing of his transcendent effect empowering those around him.

Allanon had gotten onto the skiff without a word. The variety of races present without any clear discomfort between their peers was astounding. In Portea everyone just wanted to mind their own business, and they were often close minded in regards to other races. The strangeness and difference between them simply made most of them stay within their cliques. Perhaps it was simply the difference between environments that made this so? The odds were the difference in size between the cities had a large effect as well.

The last time Allanon came here he had seen the skiffs, however, he never once got a chance to use one. His old squad were here on a mission in the town on orders of the Calabris family. It was a kidnapping. The irony of his current mission was not lost on him. He hoped he would succeed in rescuing all the kidnapping victims.

The only other human on board the skiff spoke up as they headed out. He wore a Trantis guard's coat. Curious considering how Trantis was wiped out. He either was a survivor or left before.

He nodded in greeting toward Bidzil before responding with a professional tone. "Allanon."

Maeve looked at Valia with a gentle smile, she seemed to be a kind and gentle woman. The second she mentioned Allard's stories Maeve looked at the large innkeeper with a surprised and curious smile. Maeve would certainly like to hear them sometime. When Allard replied, saying that he would be more than glad to share them, pointing the armor which was on a display and Maeve had completely missed.

"I had completely missed it! I would love to hear your stories!" Maeve said, with a smile towards Allard.

"Even though I wont be able to help with the searching party, I see that I wont be bored hearing some good and interesting stories!" she said with a giggle.

When Valia mentioned the scorching sun, Maeve nodded, understanding what she meant.

"Indeed... I am afraid it is already hard enough for me to walk outside the town right now. I don't believe I would be able to handle the desert heat." She said, with a chuckle.

While it was still tolerable inside the inn, she had felt the heat outside and even if she wanted to help, Maeve knew she would probably need someone to take care and help her instead. Still, there was a lot of things to do in town and she knew she would be distracted for a decent while with both Valia and Allard's stories. She was honestly glad she was able to meet kind people such as them, after all, she was not just an outsider, but she knew nothing about Kalla.

"I'm glad you accepted my offer! I'm Maeve Orzhov." she said, presenting herself.

"I would love to watch one of your performances. I mean... A normal one, of course." Maeve said, with a giggle.

"I do believe Kalla's traditional dances must be completely different from the ones we have back home." she said, with a kind smile.

"Mmm," Sev hummed thoughtfully to himself as Allard offered some food that another patron had walked out on, "I'm not one to accept charity but I don't want to insult your hospitality... I know!"

A smile spread across the pale face as he reached into a pocket and, after a bit of rummaging, produced two coins, one silver and one copper which he held up for the barkeep to see.

"How about a game?" said Sev, taking one of the coins in each hand which he held out, palm up with the coins clearly displayed, "we're going to leave this in the hands of fate, in a moment I'm going to mix these coins up and hide one in each hand."

Sev demonstrated by covering the coins, flipping his hands over and bumping his hands together before presenting the coins again. However it seemed that in that simple movement the two coins had switched hands, the hand that had the silver now held the copper and vice versa. After letting the barkeep get a decent look at this he once again hid the coins and bumped the sides of his hands together.

"Now you pick a hand, which ever coin you pick is how much the meal costs," explained Sev in a slightly excited voice, it wasn't often he got to use his skills for something other than theft but it was more enjoyable this way. With his thieving his marks, hopefully, never noticed they'd been stole from. But with games like these his skills with slight of hand and magic could be demonstrated in such a way that left observers confused. He was very careful to cover his tracks, ensuring his use of illusions was never noticed in such a way that could out his aberrant blood.

He smiled as the barkeep picked a hand, after a moment's thought, which Sev turned over to reveal a silver coin.

"Looks like the meal costs one silver," he smiled, showing that the copper coin was in his other, unpicked hand, before putting the copper back into his hidden pocket and placing the silver on the table.

"Oh, you mentioned something about people going missing?" Sev asked a moment later as he accepted the food and drink, "I guess if a band has already headed out after the bandits I probably can't help there. But I don't have much to do till the next convoy west leaves. Maybe I can put my skills to use?"

Chihiro was snapped out of her watch by a voice and a feeling. Her disguised form, to anyone particularly observant, seemed to gain a faint immaculate glow as her magic was passively enhanced. She herself only noticed a bit more capability, though she chalked it more up to pre-mission confidence than any sort of unusual person about. Allanon introduced himself first in a dull manner. Seeing it as almost behooving her to make a stronger impact, Chihiro stood and gave a deep and noble bow. "I am Inquisitor Chihiro Aozaki, at your service. I wander here and there making the world a better place, often by simply making problems disappear. Isn't that right, chief?" She gave a cheeky wink to the village chief, knowing she had done just that more than a few times.

Kistal introduced himself in a similar manner to Chihiro, though his bow was far more flourished and far less deep. "And I am Kistal. I am from Portea and most commonly work for the Red Saints when I am not making food and alcohol. I make it a point to stop Calabris involvement any time I can." As he bowed to Bidzil, he caught the same feeling as the others, but his nose caught an oddity of scent on the man. He did not smell fully human, but he lacked Beastman characteristics. Something was off about him, so Kistal felt the need to keep a close watch on the man.