[b]Nin and Tristan[/b]

Interestingly, after the initial flurry, the knights set a more sedate pace. They must have only charged into the gallop when they caught wind that the beast was within striking range, and it may perhaps be reassuring that they care for their horses and do not ride them to death, especially in the uneven terrain and soft soil that the forest presents. King Pellinore herself has ridden ahead for the moment and without her presence, all her knights settle in their saddles in a way that looks entirely more human than anything you've seen in quite a while. A few even begin to chat with each other quietly, and for the first time since you've been under the canopy, you can hear distant birdsong. A sign, perhaps of the resilience of the place, or the limited influence of the Questing Beast and its hunters?

You are free to speak with each other, but when there is a lull, one of the King's knights will ride up to you and remove his helmet, showing a young man's thin and beardless face with wide eyes and long brown hair flowing over both ears. "My name's Mort, and I hope you'll forgive my lady her haste. Her family is bound to hunt and defeat the beast, you see. Might I ask what liege you serve and what errand carries you so far into these dark woods?"

[b]Constance and Robena[/b]

The answer to Constance's question was ambiguous for a moment, but Robena has decided the issue for you. Cath has been addressed directly and perked up her head. It is of the utmost imperative that you make her an offering immediately or she will take you for a danger and retreat. Amid the rubble and ruin, it could be quite the task to find her, especially if she retreats within the stone keep itself, which would be dark as the abyss and half again as cramped. 

The ghosts, in comparison, can wait, though rest assured that when you have Cath eating out of your hand, they will demand their due attention. Robena, though you lack Constance's sensitivity, you too can begin to feel them in the form of a cold chill as they draw near. What methods have you learned for calming resentful spirits in your travels?

Constance, it's barely any effort for you to cross the courtyard, for dirty and rough as it is, the old stones pay you their respect and do not stand in your way. Tell us how you each entreat the haughty cat and how she came to be in your arms?