Chapter Three: On the Road

Mryio cracks a grin as he places his empty tankard on the table "Ah, but you don't pay us to be good with people." He stands with a chuckle and claps Ulyeltin on the back. He gathers his tankard, makes his way to the entertainer, and holds his hand out "Welcome aboard, the name's Mryio. Get you something from the bar?"

Bughu returns his attention to the cultists and their friend, observing their actions.

Jon shrugs. "I'm new to this sort of work, myself. Lone heroics were how I made my name. I think I could get used to this, though."

"I’ll have whatever you’re having. Name’s Xalana. No need for introductions. Let’s just say we have a few mutual friends. I’m sure we’ll have much "catching up" to do at a more convenient time, eh?"

Mryio shrugs his eyebrows "Suit yourself, Xalana. How about you, Ulyeltin, anything?" Upon getting Ulyeltin's answer, he nods at Bughu "Can you follow me to the bar? Might need help carrying the drinks and staving off temptations."

Bughu stands to wordlessly follow Myrio.

Mryio gets out of earshot of the table before he starts to talk to Bughu "What's your thought on her? For our main reason I mean, I don't see a problem with her helping guard the caravan." Getting to the bar counter, he places an order for Ulyeltin's request—if given— and two waters. "That mutual friend comment hit an odd note with me."

"Same," says Bughu. "I think when we get a chance, away from our boss, we ought to ask about this friend."

"How has the journey been so far, Ulyeltin? Uneventful I hope?"

"Agreed." Mryio nods, as the bartender returns with his order. Placing a few coins and the counter, he gathers the two tankards of water, leaving Ulyeltin requested alcohol to be picked up by Bughu. "Worst case, she'll ease up on the caravan watch duty so our eyes can be elsewhere."

Bughu retrieves the drinks and returns to the others.

Bughu stands in awkward silence for a bit, arms folded across his chest. "You said something earlier," he begins, "about mutual friends. What'd you mean by that?"

I lean closer, whispering "Leosin sent me. Great friend of mine, we go way back. I didn't want to say anything inside in case anyone was listening. Anyways, he thought you could use my help."

Bughu seems relieved, like a weight has been taken off his shoulders. "Thanks," is all he says.