"In our world," Jack said carefully, studying the bridge with concern, "When the wildlife grows quiet, it's either because it's about to rain, or they're afraid of something."

"Do you have rivals who would think it right to ambush you?" he asks Silbermine softly. "I wonder if we were to move back, if others would appear?"

"Ladies and gentlemen," he said, keeping his voice light as he bowed slightly towards the other members of the crew, "it is now the spot in this evening's program for you to prepare what weapons you have, as I feel the necessity of using them is nigh upon us."

Whoever was out there waiting, Hopefully they weren't too deep into their trap. But then he doubted they expected a walking, burning tree mage to land in it with them.

"Apparently, we are fated to live in interesting times," he shrugs.