Marod lowered his arms and twisted to follow Meesei's movements. Meesei's apparent willingness to sacrifice everything she had gave Marod pause. He sat frowning at Meesei for some time, looking at the magic on her hand.

He sniffed. "I regret to say I cannot leave immediately. Or at least, not [i]immediately.[/i]" He gestured to himself and around him. "Do not think I misunderstand the importance you place upon this, but some things will have to be arranged to sensibly rely on the Empire's help. Not least of which is me being in uniform for a official meeting." He leisurely stood up. "But by all means, tell me how we shall be travelling and I will make all the arrangements I require within less than an hour, I promise."

[hr]
Marod's preparations were, at promised, short enough to wait through. Much was made in simple coded phrases and notes passed, documents quickly dictated to scribes to send to superiors, and other small loose ends. The longest time he was out of Lunise and Meesei's sights were when he changed into more suitable attire than a nightgown. His intention was to wear his Penitus Oculatus leathers, though Meesei knew he was not beyond disguises and could assume one if she recommended it.