Smiling to himself, Joachim watched the fire. But, then his smile faded, into a look of concentration. "Yes, it is where we're going." He said, musingly. Then he remained silent for a time, deep in thought. Sometimes, a ranger had no other company but for his thoughts. It took Joachim a minute to remember that he did have other company.

"Sef." He said slowly. "You are going south, to the long mountains and beyond, following the stories of your elders. You entire journey is all rife with danger." Joachim stood up slowly, drawing nearer to the fire. "I am doing the same exact thing. What if, we-"

From deep within one of the tunnels, branching off from the alcove, a wet slithering sound echoed loudly. It came closer, growing louder by the second.