Zakroti remained motionless as the girl approached him, though he noticed Vain had tightened his grip around his sword and was ready to strike at a moment's notice. Zakroti let out a low growling noise as the water washed over the wound- but the pain subsided and the wound appeared to have sealed itself. Yet- He frowned lightly. What was she saying? He couldn't understand wh-

Of course.

"[Ah! Drakken! Mine is a bit rust, I am scared. I haven't spoken it for some years, now I'm think of it. The Drakken are rather good at stealing things they like and your language seems to have been one of such things.]" He replied in slightly broken Drakken with numerous minor errors. "[I thank you for your aid. You will find that Drakka, like Gemminia, is diverse. While I think you will find the west marchlands more- civilised than the east, I can give you no rest from the suffering of your people.]"

"If it puts your mind at ease, those Gems who suffer were oft born of those you didn't want." Vain grunted as he eased his hand off the sword

"Vivpre, Vain (Peace, Vain.)[Forgive him. He has a bones to pick with your parents.] I doubt you will find yourself as my wife. Perhaps not even my bride. My grandfather surely has something in mind. As for Aymiria- No, I think not. At this time I cannot risk further dissatisfying the Muthseran." Zakroti said with a dismissive wave of the hand "As for leaving this place, we will soon. We ride by a different road than my kin for we will be meeting and accompanying the Lady Siadamkiru for some distance. Afterwards, we will turn east. It will not be the warmest of paths until we are clear of the mountain so if you brought anything warm, wear it. Aurien!"

Aurien slowly rose from the floor, grimacing at his bandaged wounds and taking his spear in hand. "Oeiz Tak? (My Overlord?)"

"You and Julius will take Ayltam to fetch her things. Vain and Gaikus will remain with Aymiria and the Princess. Kzaar and Kilio will escort me."

"Oeiz Muth-(My duke-)" Vain began in protest; Zakroti held up his hand to silence him and after a moments silence the Blackguard sighed heavily "Na wre gaiar (As you desire.)"

Zakroti turned his attention back to Annaveya "Is there anything else or should we busy ourselves with preparing to leave?"