Sabine took a short moment to think about her answer. She didn't immediately indicate a yes or a no. "I have not really got to know them very well yet. I normally practice magic on my own or with Meesei but there does seem to be more battlemages than scholars. It is different to Bruma. As for the alchemists, they are not unusual, but they are making a lot of supplies for the march." Sabine shrugged, "I thought there were just more fighters because the Senchal clan lost most of theirs."

"This is indeed a clan preparing to fight," Gallus added. "Although, I have spoken with Ri'vashi a number of times, and from what I can gather, she was raised with a more militant philosophy of leadership. It has influenced this clan much."

After another half a minute, Gallus had finished fastening his clothing and seemed ready to move out. He still looked tired, likely from oversleeping. "Er...what time is it, by the way?" he asked.

[hr]
While Tzirret nodded gratefully at La'khay's mention of her advice, the word 'voluptuous' caused his mouth to tighten awkwardly and his ears to burn. It went downhill from there, leaving Tzirret paralysed with his hand clasping his upper-arm. He has almost forgotten how La'khay's mind worked.

"M-mwell," Tzirret's eyes darted to one side. He peered up at La'tahne nervously, telegraphing his discomfort, and then looked to La'khay. He spoke in a stilted tone, "Tzirret does not think he should talk about such things in public."

If La'khay wanted to know more about Tzirret and Ma'tanza's relationship, they could do so later. In an attempt to change the subject, Tzirret ran one hand over his head and changed his tone to try to be more upbeat, "So, what had been occupying your time, La'khay?"

A punishing twinge ran up Tzirret's neck as he remembered what La'khay's regular pastimes were, but hopefully she wouldn't be too graphic this time.