[i][/i][i][/i][i][/i][h2][center][b][color=ed1c24]Novak[/color][/b][/center][/h2]
Novak took a sip of tea as he pondered Mie's proposal, and to help mask his unease at her request.  It would be a dangerous undertaking.  They were surrounded by enemies, greatly outnumbered, and aside from an initial offer, the foe made no sign of willingness to parlay or negotiate.  If something happened, nobody would come to Novak's rescue.

On the other hand, what other choice did they have?  They couldn't stay like this forever.  They had only a limited supply of food, and even with a defensive advantage the ratfolk and dogfolk would eventually outlast them.  They were too few in number to break out, and the gamble to try and get help had left them short five warriors.  With no clue as to whether Haruno and the other oni had gotten through, he suspected that Mie chose him because of the potential for getting out with guile rather than force.  They had to get help, or they were all dead.

[color=ed1c24]"I think I see where this is going.  I might be able to get through if I don my original attire.  They would not recognize me as one of your subordinates if I was not dressed like one."[/color] Novak suggested, placing the teacup down.  [color=ed1c24]"And...if I'm wrong, if I can't don't make it out, it's been an honor to serve you, Lady Mie.  I don't know if I'll ever figure out who I was originally, but...this last year of working this caravan has been quite meaningful."[/color]

Novak suspected that was why Mie chose him for this- he was clearly not a human from Chagawa, nor was he one of its unique demi-humans.  As long as he could avoid being seen with or near Mie's people, they should have no reason to suspect him if he wasn't dressed like one of the caravan guards.  Of course, there were quite a lot of potential dangers out there like beasts and the weather, but at this point, his combat attire would only further the danger by marking him as an enemy to the besiegers.

Before trying to head out, Novak would see if Chohei was still up for a sparring match.  He needed to be sharp for this mission...besides, he couldn't be sure if he was going to make it back.  Afterwards, whether or not he had the opportunity to spar, Novak would change into his old attire, equip only his old sword, and, after ensuring he wasn't showing any sign of being seen, he'd try to slip out, trying to avoid any enemy patrols or encampments.  He would not head in the direction of the village (which he assumed would be heavily guarded), but rather would endeavor to head in another direction as to not catch too much attention.  If he managed to put enough distance from the besiegers and not run afoul of any traps, only then would he start to make his way towards the village.