Xen's eyes never left Sadron as he spoke of recent events. The death of one of the Triumvirate was indeed a blow to the political order of the world. He never cared much of the machinations of the politics of the world, especially when incompetence was at the root of it. He also stood in silence as he let the others meander and ask their questions, sifting through the chests providing equipment. The ring did pique his interest, which led to an even more curious question: If Erudessa had crafted these rings to give to them, then she saw her impending doom. Why had she not warned others, or simply avoided the situation entirely? What sort of game was being played?
	He walked over to the remaining chest and took only the rations and the ring, pocketing both into the satchel at his side. He smoothed out his robes as he pulled back the cowl, turning to face everyone gathered. His eyes were deep and his face showed some signs of aging with black hair spilling down the sides of his face. Several braids were woven into his otherwise straight hair and rested on his collar. What he saw in front of him was a mismatch of some of the oddest people. Though all possessed skills necessary for such an undertaking, he wasn't impressed. They would need to learn to work together and to trust each other if they had any hope of surviving the coming maelstrom. Then, for the first time since coming, he spoke, his tone even and soft.

	[color=blue]"I want all of you to go to town tonight. Indulge in whatever youthful proclivity you may have."[/color] He looked at each of them in turn, his face betraying no emotion. [color=blue]"I want all of you to look deep within yourselves this night. Peer deep within your soul. The road ahead of us will be an arduous one, marred with blood and crushed bone. With murder, death, and destruction. You will witness horrors your very nightmares will run from."[/color] He let the words linger in the air a moment before turning and limping slowly toward each and every one of them, looking them in the eyes.

	[color=blue]"I care not why you fight, but that you fight. Reach for your courage and hold onto it. We will depend on each other in the coming days. Tomorrow, find me at the western gate. If you decide to stay, no one will think less."[/color] After finishing his speech, he walked over to Arandur and leaned into his ear. After a couple of nods, Xen followed after Sadron. A strategem must be discussed.