After draining a portion of his tankard, Malachi answered the bartender's question with a nod. "Ya got me. From way down south, actually. Thought I'd roam 'round the country to see what's goin' on." He wiped the foam from his lips with the back of his hand, then took a giant-sized bite of the first sandwich. Even simple ingredients tasted great when one was hungry. A few chews later, he maneuvered the food into a cheek and replied, "As for why I'm here, I spent a looong time wanderin' out in the wilds, survivin' on my own." 

He paused to wonder why he was taking pains to construct a story when it would be easier just to be honest. Did it really matter, after all? Strange things happened all the time in a magical world, and it wasn't like he was going to just out himself as a one-time enemy of the empire. An old Sydane fairy tale came to mind, and he started work on an idea. After a moment or two spent with his mind in overdrive putting together what he wanted to say, Malachi continued. "To be honest, I'm real lost. Was up in the mountains when I heard these loud cracking noises. Found these little bearded men playing...some kind of game. Seemed alright, so I joined in. Had some of their drink, too. Guess I fell asleep. When I woke up, they were gone, and things were different. So, if you can tell me anythin' about the country, what's going on, even what year it is, I'll be real grateful." Wearing a distressed look, he put his sandwich down, and looked to the bartender for help.