Nodding to Korkud, Ashradar took the horse and headed off to prepare. This was certainly going to be an interesting venture... It had been a while since he had seen any form of action. He only hoped he hadn't lost his skill.

Tying up the horse he ducked into his tent, hurriedly grabbing the necessities. His sword was first grabbed and put in its scabbard in his belt. A pistol, which he had due to having quite a brilliant aim with it, was put in a leather holster and he grabbed some ammunition. He slung a quiver over his shoulder, packed full with arrows, before finally picking up his precious bow. He checked to make sure it was in perfect condition and a light smile crossed his lips. He practiced daily to keep up his skill. He didn't want to lose his perfect record. After collecting a few more things he was ready, exiting his tent.

He easily swung up onto the saddle, sitting unsteadily for a while as he urged the horse into a light trot towards the south gate. He soon got it to speed up deciding that being late was definitely not a good idea. No, he did not to cause any annoyance. 

He arrived at the southern entrance having taken just under twenty minutes, shifting uncomfortably in the saddle as he pulled the horse to a halt where Korkud was waiting with a nod. He always found it weird in a saddle if he hasn't ridden in a while, but soon adapted. He hoped he could still shoot a bow from horseback... That was something he should work on if possible.

"What is the planned route?" He asked cautiously, dark eyes narrowed. They would have to ride fast if they were to make it in good time to wherever they were going, but there were also certain routes it would be best to avoid if they didn't want be delayed.

---

"Oy, Corin, get through here!"

Corisande narrowed her eyes at the shout, glancing at Dion who just shrugged. Everyone in the room was watching her as she put down her tools, heading out to the shop front. The owner was standing in front of a courtier, face blushed and movements ridged with anger.

"Yes?" Corisande murmured quietly as she approached.

"A letter." It was all but shoved in her hands. She frowned, staring at the piece of paper. She tried to decipher what she assumed were words before handing it back.

"I can't read."

"It is inviting you to a dinner tomorrow at the D'Aubigine residence. Is there any reason for you to be invited to that?"

Coridande shook her head. The blacksmith turned to the courtier, holding out the letter.

"I think there's been a mistake."

"No, there hasn't."

"So you just expect me to let one of my apprentices to take a day off when I can't afford to! Huh? I need every hand I have!"

"I'm sorry, but I'm sure compensation will be offered."

"There better be," he turned to Corisande with a scrutinising look, waving the courtier away. "You'll need some fancier clothes. I'm sure we'll find something not dirty and stained. And you'll need to was up tomorrow." He frowned. "But for now, get back to work!"

Corisande nodded, scurrying away. To say she was confused was quite an understatement. There was no reason for her to get an invite like that.