[center][h1][b][color=035096]Cassim[/color] and [color=red]Iago[/color][/b][/h1][/center] Cassim paid close attention as the skeleton and his three child-like companions introduced themselves, whilst Iago struggled in futility against Cassim's grip. This Jack fellow seemed to be friendly enough, even a bit jovial in his tone, and spoke of a tradition the King of Thieves had heard of in the West: Halloween. He even claimed the title of Pumpkin King, something which the Arabian man thought very interesting. He had heard of only one tale surrounding Halloween involving some Jack and pumpkins. [color=035096]"The Pumpkin King you say? Might you be the Jack I've heard stories of, who trapped the devil in a tree for immortality, and in response was forced to wander eternally as Jack-o-lantern?"[/color] he asked, taking Jack's hand. True, this Jack was a skeleton and no pumpkin-turned-lantern was around, but myths and legends often had a way of being muddled over time. That was the difficulty of oral traditions, and it made treasure hunting a particular kind of challenging. [color=red]"This is all very fun but Cassim, buddy, friend, don't you think it'd be just a wee bit smart to GET THE HECK OUTTA H-mrfgle."[/color] Cassim silenced Iago by holding the bird's beak shut, and shot him the sort of look a parent would give a small child to be stern. [color=035096]"Apologies for my friend's rudeness. We wouldn't want to attract the attention of the locals now, would we Iago?"[/color] Iago eyed the skeleton, then Zero the ghost dog, then back to Cassim. He made an audible gulp, but could say nothing. Cassim turned his attention to the three children, launching questions back to back. [color=035096]"His name is Iago. He is a magic bird, but not good for much, I'm afraid."[/color] Iago shot him a dirty look, which he mentally chuckled at. [color=035096]"And you have the honor of standing in the presence of the King!"[/color] Cassim proceeded to bow as low as he was able, while still mounted to his horse. As he straightened back up, he held up cuff link, which came from Jack's suit. [color=035096]"Of Thieves!"[/color] Iago shook his head nervously, whispering into Cassim's ear. [color=red]"I know you like to be dramatic and all, but do you really think it's a good idea to advertise that fact to a bunch of monsters?"[/color]