The time waiting was passed with patient sitting around. Checking over all they packed was only going to occupy so much time with how light they were travelling. If there was any silver lining, Janius got to take the time to chat with Julan about what he was up to. Janius' busy lifestyle made him realise just how few times he could just sit and talk with his son. He hoped it would be an indication of the rest of the journey.

By the time Kaleeth arrived, most of the conversation was spent. They were all rearing to go.

Janius stood up to greet Kaleeth. "You're not too late, dear," he said, before he walked around her to regard her new armour. "Those armourers do a fine job, don't they? We'll have to take care not to give people a fright at the sight of you." He almost laughed. "How does it fit? Is it what you wanted?" Janius even gave Julan a look. "What do [i]you[/i] think of mother's new armour?"

Whatever answers they had, it was just enough time for Sabine to arrive. She walked around the corner, arms-locked with the familiar face of Karl, staring absently -- if nervously -- ahead and tapping the stone in front of himself with a thin cane. In contrast, Sabine had a genuinely happy smile on her face. They carried a knapsack each on their backs for the journey, along with Sabine's usual shoulder bag.

"Sorry we are late," Sabine said. "We had to finish some last-minute business."

"It's rude to disappear without notice, I would have offended someone, either way," he said jokingly. It did not quite alleviate the anxiety held in his slightly hunched shoulders.