Nobody even seemed to be paying much notice to Imogen, and her words fell on deaf ears.  Honestly, she wasn't surprised.  Out of all the people in this room, she probably looked the least threatening.  She didn't mind being looked down upon, it made for a rather nice change, but it was a shame that she wasn't able to speak with them.  Perhaps some among the gathered fighters had led lives similar to hers, and would have insights to share, stories, wisdom.

She considered approaching them.  But how does one even approach a warrior from another world entirely?  For all she knew, they might speak some strange language, or engage in cannibalism as a casual daily activity.  Some of those present certainly looked capable of it.  So instead, she shied around the edges of the lobby, avoiding the food, feeling generally a little awkward.  Maybe she'd be able to talk to them once the fights started, and discuss or comment on the unfolding battles.  Whoever these people were, she was certain they'd have some sort of opinions to share on the art of combat.

But, as it soon turned out, she would be one of the first to fight.  She looked around, uncertain as to exactly which one of these strangers was Nicoli.  Given the sound of the name, probably one of the smaller ones.  

Either way, she showed no hesitation in stepping towards the portals, walking swiftly and confidently right up to the first.  The cloth bundle containing her blades floated along beside her, matching her pace.  But as she walked, she reached out to it, tugging on a small concealed thread on one side, and it began to unravel, revealing the weapons inside.  Gleaming steel slid from ornate sheaths, as the cluster of blades unfolded into an airborne formation, arraying themselves all around her.  The cloth and the sheaths she'd leave behind, stepping up to the edge of the portal surrounded only by her swords.

Imogen hesitated before entering, however, her confidence wavering a little, and glanced towards Nicoli (should he have advanced at this point). With one small hand, she brushed her red hair aside as she tried to meet his eyes.  "I... I should ask, what fortune brings you here?  So far down the road of pain?" There was genuine curiosity in her voice, and a hint of sadness.