Introduction

The Nircotian Wilderness is a vast area of land composed of two mountain ranges with hills at their feet and a plain in the middle. Living in this region is a group of people known as the Nircoti. This story tells the tale of how a guide from the Nircoti surpasses her own past to help a child reach her own future.

Warning: The Nircotian Wilderness series may have a high rating for violence. You have been warned.

Respect: The setting and culture are the work of maidenroseheart, aka Mindy, and should not be used without permission and citing. These stories are also mainly between Tachigami and maidenroseheart. Only those invited, having shown desireable taste to both these parties, may join on invitation only.

Geography

On the west side and east side of this region are two mountain ranges. Each tower so high that almost two-thirds up their steep sides, a human can barely breathe due to the thin oxygen that exists. Often the tops of these ranges have massive clouds that float north, snowing on the peaks and raining in the mountains. Each of these two mountain ranges have their own pass. A sharp, V-shaped valley leading down to a single trail. These are located in the center of each range. What trails exist on the outsides of these mountains - and outside of the Nircotian region - are rocky, treacherous trails. The inner sides of the mountain ranges that overlook the hills and plain are heavily forested below the tree line. The almost constant rain in the mountains make for a very slippery surface composed of pine, moss, and fast-pasted streams filled with rapids and waterfalls. Gold and gems can be found in these streams. Coal can be found in any of the rare caves that exist in this hard blue rock.

At the base of each of these mountain ranges outside the valley are settlements. Each with its own garrisons, trading posts, and simple towns. Different races vie for the chance to be influential in the area. At the base of each of these mountain ranges, in the Nircotian Wilderness, are the foothills. Wonderful green hills with gentle rivers and groves, it provides the balance of life. Silver can be found here.

The plain is in the middle of this region and is almost circular in design with the hills framing it. The plain at the outmost part drops down in a steep slope, resembling almost a crater. The entire plain is tall dry grass except for the area in the center. The very center, for a mile or so wide, is pure desert. Nothing but hard dirt exists there. A rare element known as Nirc can be found here, named after the people who guard it. It is strong, silvery beautiful with a silver glow at night, and said to have more properties to it than can be imagined.

North side of the mountain ranges extend so far north that the climate is bitter and cold. Even with the inventions in recent years, no one has been able to find a way to travel the region without meeting a cold fate. Those who have insisted on going have never been seen again. What's more, there are tales of large, white creatures that resemble wolves but are as large as grizzlies that inhabit that region. It is supposed but not proven of their existence with a hypothesis out there that if they did exist, they can't come south for lack of cool weather, snow, and ice.

South of this area is just as treacherous. The mountains and hills end in steep cliffs at the ocean. Large waves and typhoons swirl this ocean area like an epidemic. Ships who dare to blunder into these water meet with large sea creatures, maelstroms, and waves that dwarf most buildings. The moisture provided by the ocean travels north providing the mountains with their constant rain. Storms that reach the hills, and rarely the plain, tend to have become gentle rain showers compared to their original forms.

Nircoti
Abilities

The abilities of the Nircoti are legendary. They are known for their training of eagles and hawks, Nirvan horses, healers and their own warriors. These four groups are known as the "four strengths."

Abilities: Scouts - Their scouts are composed of their swiftest runners. Men and women who wear leather armor, are the top sprinters in their villages, and have raised and trained their own scouting bird. The birds tend to be eagles or hawks. They use Nirc, worn in headbands that are attached by the healers, to mentally view together what the bird sees. However the birds, though intelligent, are in the end just superbly trained birds. They are loyal to their owners, but no foreigner can come near them without sustaining serious injury. No exceptions. Scouts are trained in archery, short-swordsmanship, daggers, and throwing knives. They patrol the plains and the mountain passes, keeping an eye out for invading forces in the latter or the entrepreneur in the former. Traditionally they wear a combition of greys and browns to blend in.
Abilities: Mounted Riders - There are several tribes that specialize in the breeding, raising, and training of their horses. The horses are large, muscular creatures that can endure the mountain trails and hold their own in fighting. They are loyal to their trainers and to those that the trainers personally give them to. They fight, guard, and respond via verbal and physical signals. Those who ride them for life must also be able to fight bareback if need be using sword, lance, and archery. They generally patrol the mountain ranges, northern wilds, and southern boarders. The riders were colors of browns to better blend in with their horses.
Abilities: Healers - The healers are those who have devoted their lives to studying herb properties and Nirc. Common knowledge is that they are the only ones able to use Nirc for more than artistic purposes. Large enough quantities have never been collected or taken out of the valley for experimentation or mass weapon use. Healers are known for their generous souls. They generally wear a white thin robe with a blue outer coat. If not this precise outfit, then a combination of blues and whites of some sort works.
Abilities: Warriors - These are the strongest of the Nircoti. They are excellent at use of the sword and shield of varying types. They regularly practice drills, mock battles, and discuss scenarios with possible outcomes. They are hardened into their skills by venturing into the wilds of the mountains where creatures of claw and tooth live. They practice survival in every climate their region holds. They are the ones who repel invading forces that attempt to navigate their mountain passes. On call, each village is responsible for supplying their quota of warriors at the encampments that are set at the base of each mountain range. They wear heavy armor and anything of color has been fitted and decorated to help them blend in with whatever environment they are stationed at.
Abilities: Misc - There are many other stations of life in the villages that are not represented here. Farmers, herders, artisans, small government leaders, scientists, and so many more. Whatever the employ of the people, they tend to have strengths in one of the four major areas as well. Everyone contributes to the well-being of their society.

Settlements

The settlements are composed of a central meeting hall, the healing school, and various buildings of different trades. They are formed in a large circle with the homes in several smaller circles inside the main circle. Inside the ring of houses is a single circle of gardens, each with their own type of vegetable, herb, or flower. Then there is a single circle of fruit trees. In the center is a dependable well that survives drought. In this way, if attacked, they can sustain the people.

Surrounding the entire village is a large wall with platforms around it. Originally built out of wood, it was then covered in clay to protect from fire. Outside the walls are the large fields of those settlements that farm. Other settlements have herds of various lifestock. The only settlements that require trading for food are those that raise horses and birds. They can trade easily within their tribe for what is lacking. Each settlement also has their own weave and color combination within that weave. The Narcoti are as adapt at reading the weaves as you are at reading this text. Duplicates and disguises are easily seen through by them, though foreigners cannot distinguish the difference between all the colorful fabrics. Each settlement flies their weave above the well and above their main buildings of the four strengths that they might have in their settlement.

There are numerous small settlements scattered throughout the hills. Each settlement is restricted in size from 100-500 people. When it grows large, the most numerous small families as decided on by the settlement move out to create their own. Narcoti do intermarry between settlements, but carry as their last name the family name that belongs with the settlement that they live in currently. If they move, they join a willing family in their new settlement. Despite this, detailed family origins are kept in embroidery in the settlements. Every year the historians gather to update their collection of family historians. If one settlement is lost, the history is kept.

Though most of the settlements are in the hills, a precious few have devoted their existence to the protection of the Narcoti by living in the mountains. They generally are warrior settlements that learn to live off the land they are surrounded by. Even fewer are in the plain, and generally hold more healers. The healers of these settlements go to assist in times of war when foreigners invade or plague breaks out. There are always the nomad groups as well that drive large herds of the Nirvan horses between the hills and plain grasses in order to avoid overgrazing an area, which could lead to desertification.

Culture

Music: - Flute music is their main source of pleasure. Songs that are created either are done in worship or as a way to pass on their history.
Food - They live on vegetables and grains that are grown. Fruit is considered a desert as is apple cider. Generally they drink tea. Poultry is the main meat, but not eaten every meal. Sheep and Cows are eaten only at feasts.
Religion - They believe in a Creator God who cares about them and loves them. Worship for them is singing songs of praise to him, writing poetry, or going out in nature to reflect how He has blessed and taken care of them.
Clothing - They wear pants with loose long shirts that are belted. Only the healers wear robes. Most wear leathers of some sort as added protection: jacket, vest, bracers, shin guards, etc.
Transportation - Horses.
Language - Nar is their ancient language. Though they know Nar in the settlements in the plain, it is rarely used as much as the common language is.
Character/Values - They have a huge respect for life, duty, working hard, good deeds, honor, reputation, morals, excellent manners, and integrity. The Narcoti do not particularly value magnetic personalities, being fascinated or entertained, the stunning, the attractive, or the glowing. They are not fond of domineering, forceful, or overly energetic personalities. These qualities to them are that of the foreigners when foreigners want the precious Nirc.
Recreation - Mock battles, cooking contests, and art.
Education - Every child receives a basic education in reading, writing, and arithmetic. They are grilled in history from childhood. During the years of basic education and survival skills, they also are trained in the basic elements of the four strengths. At age 10, they are assigned to the one that they are strongest in for further learning instead of all four. From age 12-15 they are apprenticed to three different career areas gaining skills in those areas. Once they have reached the age of 15, they get a year off from their studies and work to travel the Nircotian Wilderness. At age 16, they are considered responsible and pick up the career they plan to have for life. Age 22 is when they are done with apprenticeship and what would pass as a somewhat formal education. They begin to work as full adults.

History

The plain is the center of their world. It wasn't always this way though. A long time ago, the people they call The Foolish Ones had lived in a large beautiful valley with gentle mountains. It is said that there was a lake in the center where Nirc was a liquid instead of a metal. Some may call it magic, science, or divine work that the Nirc creates. The Nircoti don't really care. It is what is is. The Foolish Ones misused the Nirc and disaster ensured. An explosion of horrendous proportions created the plain. The shock waves pushed the gentle mountains out into the mountain ridges they are today, though why they are straight lines north to south is a mystery. The rebound shockwave allowed the gentle hills to form. This is the tale that the Nircoti are raised with.

Nirc is a rare metal that can be found in bits and pieces in the plain. It is more common towards the center. What the Nircoti protect is the dry, desert center where huge pieces of Nirc rock lay buried. It is believed that if used, greed will corrupt those in leadership or those who want leadership. Avoiding another horrible fate that The Foolish Ones were dealt is their goal.

Foreigners

The Nircoti lived peaceful lives for many years slowly developing from nomads that wondered the hills into the culture that they are today. Their first true exposure with a large group of foreigners was a thousand years ago with the Brittca empire. The Brittca empire was at the time a trading empire that wished to trade for the plain colored cloth, non-war trained horses, and smallest bits of Nirc the Nircoti were willing to trade. However the Brit people betrayed this trade alliance in their greed for the multi-colored clothe, war horses, and more Nirc. This led to the first major war the Nircoti every fought. They learned from it.

The Nircoti were not prepared for the onslaught that had entered their valley or the trials that constant war forced them to face. So after 200 years of small fighting, they gladly accepted the outwardly friendly offer of help from the other side of the valley by the Romettian empire. Again they were betrayed and again another large war was fought. This time, with all foreigners being banned from the Nircotian Wilderness. Occasionally small groups or simple individuals are allowed access across to the other side, but the betrayals run deep in the history of the Nircoti.

Since then both empires as well as the nobility and leaders of the Span people have attempted raids into the Nircotian Wilderness to no avail. Over the last 800 years, the Nircoti have slowly strengthened their protection of their region as well as solidify their culture. It is dangerous to enter the mountains at all, much less with the Nircoti standing guard as well.

Races - Human

Cobi: - They are a small group of people who are nomads. They are very private people who do not intermingle or marry outside their culture. They seem to have a certain joy in caring for the animals they herd. They also seem to have no fear of the possible monsters of the north that sometimes seem to migrate south during the winter months. In contrast to that, they fear the southern ocean and avoid large lakes. They show no desire or interest in the Nircotian Wilderness nor wish to even see much less touch or use Nirc. They seem to prefer stringed instruments of any sort. They are firm vegetarians and would rather die than ever kill an animal in order to live. They won't even take advantage of another's work in preparing meat, such is their firm belief in the value of life. Much about them is unknown. SPOILER: Outside of the story, you the reader, are allowed to be aware that they are the descendents of The Foolish Ones. Do not allow this knowledge to affect your characters unless they themselves are Cobi. If they are, remember that this is knowledge they take with them to the grave.

Their history that is known only to them is limited. Here is the basic structure. They used to be a society of castles owned and lorded by warband leaders. Their warbands fought around and around the Nirc lake with no care for life. Many innocent people living in the surrounding villages were killed and economy was barely existent. Then one day, during a particularly horrible battle, somehow the liquid Nirc was used directly from the lake. No one knows how this was done, but it cost the life of an unknown creature that had secretly lived in the bottom of that lake. It's mate in grief flew up to the surface and into the air before some sort of explosion was created. This is the explosion that formed the Nircotian Wilderness as it is known to this day. Since then, the creatures in the ocean to the south have been extremely violent in the waters that are below but between the two mountain ranges. This happened so long ago that the history of it is mostly forgotten except for what is written here. This history is kept secret in the mourning of the Cobi. They to this day are trying to repent of their ancestors sins by caring for the life of the most defenseless creatures of all: grazing and herbivore animals.

Rom: They are probably the least tolerant of others out of all the difference races of humans. Despite their strength in military and conquest, they also have become very adept at managing and organizing skills. They are a very unified empire that has made allowances for other races to live among them. They desire the Nirc in order to strengthen their own weapons. Nirc's reputation as a strong element that can hold a sharp edge is legendary to them.

The Rom people were once warloads with fortresses to the far west. They migrated across the their region and soon started their own advanced civilization, pushing the Brit people onward in their expansion.

Brit: The Brit people were forced to migrate from the west to the east when the Rom people were expanding. That is how they discovered the Nircotian Wilderness and the element Nirc. They are aware that military-wise, they are not the strongest people out there, especially after the devastating war a thousand years ago with the Nircoti. Never fully recovering nor being able to retake any ground, they have settled to focus on economy and scientific invention. Due to this decision, their civilization has gained it's worth in the masterpieces that they create as well as being the holder of the currency that is now commonly accepted in the known world. They enjoy the finer things in life such as proper etiquette and complicated mannerisms. Their society is hierarchical with the levels of nobility, artisan, commoner, and laborer in that order of importance. They are tolerant of foreigners in that others wouldn't be able to keep up with some of their culture. However they can be still somewhat arrogant and pompous in attitude, a leftover trait from the less glorious earlier years. They view Nirc as the future of modern technology, invention and a good basic for any solid economy.

Span: These people were already living in the east when the Cobi migrated there. They generally left the nomads alone. They didn't clash and lived in the same territory without really interacting for many years. So when the Roms migrated over, they expected the same peaceful relationship. It didn't happen and they were forced to live as foreigners in their own land. They still worry about the military background and desires of the Roms, but make due. They don't miss the Brit people that had fought back and therefore forced to migrate on. These people are a very religious people who believe in one God. Beyond that, there are many sects that all argue different points on what to believe. They hold a distrust of science as being a means to fight their religious convictions. Despite this distrust, they are a very communal type of people who make sure that everyone is cared for. Kind-hearted people who often focus on ensuring everyone has the basic needs of life: food, shelter, medical care. Feel a bit of anger towards the insensitivity of the Brit's ancestors. Think Nirc is the answer to all their prayers much like the Holy Grail was to Catholics.

Nations

Romettian - composed of Rom people with the Span and Cobi living with them. East.
Brittca - composed of Brit with some Rom living with them. West.
Span don't like Brit. Too scientific and proper-acting.
Cobi don't like Brit. They don't value life as much as they should, having allowed thousands to die in senseless battle before migrating on.
Rom don't like anyone. They are the current major influence. They view other cultures as sub groups in life and do not understand why other cultures do not adapt their own ways.
Brit don't like anyone. They are the second major influence. They view other cultures as sub groups in life and do not understand how they are not more respected. They don't seem to realize that they are respected enough for being non-allies.

Places' Names and Major Identity

(soon to come...and will be updated throughout the story...)

Passes
Eastern Euphoria: the pass of the eastern mountain range
Western Wiles: the pass of the western mountain range

Forts

Settlements/Towns
Jimnae - The settlement at the base of the path that leads into the Eastern Mountain range to Eastern Euphoria.
Sinmae - The settlement at the base of the path that leads into the Western Mountain range to Western Wiles.

Cities

Port Cities and Harbors

Regions
Nircotian Wilderness - The large expanse that is in the middle of the known world.
Winter's Palace - The cold northern region.
Highlands - The eastern side of the Nircotian Wilderness.
Steppes of Song - The western side of the Nircotian Wilderness.
Murray Ocean - The ocean to the south of the known world.

MaidenRoseHeart's Characters

Name: Sharana
Race: Nircoti
Position: Main Character
Role: Horsewoman and Guide
Bio: Was in a settlement in the hills that had been attacked by what appeared to be simple travelers. Older brother was killed in that raid. Grew up with a distrust of foreigners, bitterness at a past she can't change, and a hard heart to shield her from more pain.
Personality: Introvert - Large groups of people tired her out. She gets re-energized by being alone. Enjoys music and has a soft spoke for the innocent.
Current Location: Traveling from Eastern Euphoria down to Jinmae to check in and get updated on current events outside the Nircotian Wilderness.
Appearance:


Name: Ray
Race: Rom
Position: Secondary Character (Will die, eventually...)
Role: Bodyguard for Hire - The antagonist
Bio: Grew up thirsting for adventure, fighting, and glory. Feels the Nircoti are the ultimate obstacle to obtaining fame and the precious Nirc. Trained as a warrior his whole life with a self-righteous attitude.
Personality: Very forceful, confident, arrogant, and loyal to his country.
Current Location: Drinking beer in a bar at Jinmae based at the bottom of one of the mountain ranges. Waiting for something to happen that will get him into the Nircotian Wilderness. Does this by eavesdropping on those planning to take the trail up to the pass, which is several days journey away.
Appearance:


Name: John
Race: Rom
Position: side character (will die)
Role: unknown traveler
Bio: Is being chased by healers who are convinced he is mentally insane due to his love of the rather morbid side of life.
Current Location: At an inn in Jinmae with a girl. Won't be back out today.
Appearance:


Name: Larry, Curly, and Moe
Race: Rom
Position: side characters to kill (humor me, I like fight scenes)
Role: a group of "innocent" looking men to kill
Bio: Got kicked out of town for their humorless jokes.
Current Location: Trying to convince an old lady she is their aunt, and being turned away. Looks like they will actually have to pay for their room and board someplace in Jinmae.
Appearance:

-----Characters of Tachigami-----

Name: Lola
Race: Span
Position: Main Character
Role: Traveling apprentice (training to be a musician)
Bio: Her father was killed by traveling raiders and her mother died in childbirth. She and her sister were placed in the care of their uncle. She doesn’t really trust many people and tends to avoid confrontation, and because she was present when her father was killed, has continuous nightmares that make her rather tired during the day.
Personality: Quiet and relatively calm, but despite having some distrust in others, she’s kind and caring, and tends to put others before herself.
Current Location: East of the Nircotain wilderness
Appearance:


Name: Marin
Race: Span
Position: Secondary character
Role: Traveling apprentice (training to be a scout and fighter)
Bio: She wasn’t present at the death of her father, and knew her mother better than her younger sister. She’s an acceptable fighter but isn’t trained well enough to understand the ways of those who have mastered their abilities. She was never as close to her father as her little sister was.
Personality: She’s a bit over-confident, and doesn’t like to be led. She feels she can take care of herself and tends to be very stubborn. She’s also rather jealous of her little sister’s innocence.
Current Location: East of the Nircotain wilderness.
Appearance:



Name: Gage
Race: Span
Position: Secondary character
Role: Healer, also an escort of his nieces
Bio: Gage knows his way around herbs and potions, but tends to make his own way, not necessarily following the ways well known around the lands. He took in his nieces after the death of his brother and cares for them as if they were his own. He supports both of them in their endeavors, and tends to escort them anywhere out of their settlement.
Personality: Calm and loving, a fatherly type though he’s never had children. He loved the wilderness though knows the dangers they present, and is well known for his unorthodox yet effective style of healing and treatment of the sick or injured.
Current Location: East of the Nircotain wilderness
Appearance:

Sharana guided her mount along the ledge of the cliff. She had been on many such narrow and cracked parts of the trail over the last two days. The only difference between those gray stoned areas and this one was she could see the beginnings of green grass growing. Gray had been her only color for so long, that the green appeared particularly beautiful. However it wasn't home. The beauty of the Nircoti's valley was so much more beautiful than anything outside the mountain's walls. She glanced back up momentarily, aware of but unable to see the tops of the high peaks. Turning back, the chilly wind tugged her brown wavy hair. Outside the Nircotian Wilderness, she never smiled. As much as she loved the wind's fingers stroking and tugging her hair from side to side, she would not smile here. The foreigners were cruel and vicious. This was their domain. Nothing was worth smiling over here.

Her white horse stumbled. Her breathe hitched for a moment as he righted himself. Another reason to not smile. She missed her Nirvan companions. Nirvan horses did not stumble. They were prized by the world over and could not be risked outside the valley for something as simple as going to visit the settlement. The trail from the mountain pass to the settlement was difficult for Nirvans, but more so for simple horses. She looked forward to the day she traded him in for her Nirvan mount. She had her own and his loyalty to her was above all else. Hopefully he didn't kill anyone who was charged with his care in her absence. She had commanded him to stay in the paddock she placed him in, but a prolonged absence would increase his worry and sully his already angry mood.

Reaching the end of the ridge, she turned her mount onto the slightly wider trail. The worst was over going this direction. She still had to make it back. By nightfall, she would definitely make it to the settlement. A place they named Jinmae. There was a trading post there that she would check into. A nearby garrison would also want to record her presence. She would leave them for morning. The last thing she needed was to be in a boxed in place full of men, especially soldiers, at night. Looking up as she rounded a bend, she had a momentary view of the settlement below. All wood and stone buildings with the busier streets made of cement. Them and their desire for their brand of civilization. At least the Brit people had running water. The Rom people were had only caught up on electricity in every building last year. Her disgust for them grew. Their lights dimmed the star lit night sky. Their running water eased their lives and made them soft. All of them were simply lazy to the core and greedy for more.

Lola didn’t know where she was. The only way she could trust herself outside her home was with her uncle Gage and older sister Marin. She kept in between them, her thin white dress sticking out rather well along the path. Her sister dressed more earthy, but a bit too complicated for Lola’s taste. Hers was a slip-like dress built for ease but also to cover well. Her uncle wore white that was a bit darker, aged along with his body and mind. She paid more attention to the thing in her hand, a crudely-carved wooden flute, It was about as long as her forearm, a bit unevenly carved. But Lola had made it herself, and she was proud of that. It didn’t sound the best, but that was why she was traveling with her uncle and sister to cross the wilderness of Nircotia. Ten years old was far too young, and definitely deadly, for a young girl working on her musical abilities. A healer uncle and training fighter sister definitely helped her chances. But they had gone from their home rather quickly. They had left most of their things. Marin had a bag with her, and Gage was carrying most of Lola’s things. Some food and water was in the woven basket on Lola’s arm, not much considering the relatively short journey to Jinmae.

Lola slipped her crude flute into her basket and dug out a small cake. It was sweetened with wildflower honey, possibly her favorite thing. The breeze blew through her long blonde hair, kicking it up behind her as though it were a cape, something like Marin was wearing, but hers was brown. When Gage asked if she was okay, Lola’s only reply was a nod. Most would see her as a mute considering how little she spoke, even around her very small family. But ever since she had been witness to her Daddy’s death, Lola was rather silent and withdrawn. It was Gage that decided to accompany her across the wilderness of Nircotia with Marin to a master of music in the west; it might bring her out of her hardened shell a bit more.

They approached a tall gate and were confronted by an extremely tall armed man. Lola kept her gaze to her white shoes, biting on her cake, and didn’t specifically listen to her uncle speak to him. Her shyness was renowned, rendering her nearly unable to speak to new people, and looking them in the face was completely out of the question. It made her far too nervous.

Gage patted her on the shoulder, leading her on. Marin said something, but Lola didn’t hear. It wasn’t replied to by Gage.

Reaching the west side of Jinmae, she slows her mount down at the gate. Answering the simple questions of who she was, where she came from, and why she was here, it was only a matter of minutes before entering the settlement. Larger that what the Nircoti allowed their own to become, she fought down the sense of confusion. It was just a place a lot of people lived. Heading to the trading post, she rode to their stable and dismounted. Leaving her horse for another, she picked up her saddle bags and pack before heading around to the front door. More rowdy than the inn, but cheaper, she squared her shoulders before walking inside.

The area she entered was similar to a lobby. One side was an open door to the bar. The other side was a closed door to the trading store. She went straight ahead to the desk. Filling in her name, she got a key and headed up the stairs. She had no wish for their alcoholic drinks nor overpriced outgear. Simply the room would do. Reaching her room, she opened the wooden door and walked across the dark room to the window. Nothing to see. Dropping her stuff on the floor, she moved about with the dying sun's last rays. She had no need for their electricity. In a few moments, she was ready for the evening. Save the city for morning. Sitting cross-legged on her bed, she closed her eyes and began clearing her thoughts of unneeded baggage and only keeping that which brought home close and her skills more ready. A good mental exercise was both a way to pass time as well as stay alert. She would sleep after the drunks were forced to bed for the night. Curfew was one thing this place had right.

Lola pressed close to Gage as they moved through the streets of Jinmae, much larger than their little village. Marin stared around at every building they passed, staring down the people who looked at her too long. While most Spans were kind-hearted and generally easy-going, Marin, like few others, was arrogant and stubborn, much like a Brit. Though she was still considered an apprentice warrior, she saw herself as a borderline goddess. Gage tended to put her in her place, though. The girl wasn’t as good as she thought she was, and more than once she’d been knocked off her high horse.

They made it to an inn, passing the cheaper one that looked to have a good number of rough persons voicing their opinions and arguments as loudly as they could. Gage especially didn’t want Lola’s fragile spirit surrounded by those disgusting, poor excuses for humans. He didn’t mind spending a little extra if it meant keeping his nieces safe. Especially Marin, who didn’t really know when to step down. He led the way to the desk, and had to work with one hand to get a small tied bag of money out to set down. Lola was hanging on to his other arm. The young woman behind the desk counted the amount and gave an approving nod, reaching behind her and grabbing a key with a number carved into the bronze. Gage took it with a word of thanks and led the siblings up a stairwell to the right. It was a bit dark in the hallway above the inn. Halfway down the hall, they reached a door emblazoned with a number ‘12’ and Gage unlocked it, allowing Lola and Marin in first.

The room was simple. Two beds beside each other, a couple lights, a desk on the other side of the room and a trunk and wardrobe. A window looked down on the street below. Gage took the lightweight bag from Marin and set them both on top of the trunk. “I’ll go look for a guide to get us through to the other side.” Gage informed. “Both of you stay here, and I’ll be back soon.” Marin started to object, but a stern look from Gage silenced her at once. “Keep an eye on your little sister.” He told Marin definitely, and left the room. Marin glanced at Lola, who had taken to sitting on the bed closer to the window, and sighed.

Sharana's meditation was interrupted by a knock at the door. Sighing, she stood up and headed to the door. Opening it, she looked at the errand boy that sat behind the front desk. He respectfully said, "Ma'am, there are three men downstairs looking for a guide tomorrow." She frowned at him, "Why are they looking tonight? Why not wait until morning?" He coughed, "Well, they want to leave first thing in the morning. And if you don't mind me saying so ma'am, they are bumbling idiots. I can see why they are in a hurry to leave town." She sighed. Such was life. She rather spend tomorrow collecting the latest news and politics. However, the job can be done tonight just as well as tomorrow. It would just require more creativity and less thoroughness.

"Alright, where are they at?" she asked the boy. He replied, "In the trading store. The faster you get them out, the happier we will be." She glanced at him before heading down the stairs. Reaching the bottom, she walked to the front desk and leaned on it confidentially to talk to the desk worker, "how badly do you want those three men out of here?" He gave her the look. She nodded, thought a moment, then offered, "Before sunrise, I want a compilation of the news and political observations and actions since a month ago. Can you manage that?" He looked surprised, then slowly a smile spread across his face. Even as she turned and walked towards the door leading into the trading post store, she could hear whispered instructions and the errand boy racing for the door outside.

She casually went into the trading post store and paused inside the door. There were three men in there alright, and causing a commotion. They were trying every manipulative trick in the book in the most obvious manner to get the store owner to help them. The owner looked like he was about to lose his temper. She slowly and casually walked around, looking at things and pretending to study the quality of some of the goods. Finally picking up bug repellent cream and several choice bags of candy, she went to the counter where the argument was going on and dropped her items down. "If you three aren't going to buy, mind if I do?" she said as she slid into their space forcing them to step back. Everyone in the store froze and turned. They knew who she was. Only Nircoti dressed in the manner she did. Pausing for affect, she leaned backwards against the counter on her elbows. Looking them up and down thoroughly, she asked, "What is it you want that you are willing to disturb the peace over?"

((Bah, short. I didn't know what else to write...))

Gage wasn’t having much luck. It didn’t seem as though there were many Nircoti in Jinmae and none were willing to become a guide, even for a good amount of money. He didn’t necessarily want to move too far from the inn for worry of Lola, and that Marin couldn’t necessarily defend either one of them as well as she thought she could. The trading post wasn’t too far from the inn, and possibly the only place Gage hadn’t looked yet. He’d been avoiding the place, but now it seemed the only thing left.

He went into the store first and foremost, but almost regretted his decision. The peace seemed to be disturbed by a few belligerent men, but as he turned to make a hasty exit, their voices died down and a confident female spoke in place of them. He paused at the door, looking into the shop. He couldn’t quite see the front counter behind a few others and a shelf. He moved around to just inside the shop, pressed against the wall. She was definitely a Nircoti; a strong one at that. Perhaps she could help them find their way through the wilderness.

((It will happen, especially talking scenes.))

The three clumsy fools stopped bumbling into each other and stared at her, mouths agape. She glowered at them, "I'm trying to simply shop and here you are, getting in my way. What have you to say? There must be a reason or you are wasting my time, and I do not enjoy having people waste my time." They were stepping back now, and then went into a huddle. Their whispers were not really whispers. Irritated, she sighed and turned to the shopkeeper. He rang up her purchases and showed her the total, his fingers twitching nervously. She wanted to give him a wink, to reassure him, but knew that even that could turn around to hurt her later. As she was about to hand him the money, one of the men "ahem"ed her. She paused and slowly turned back around. Raising an eyebrow, she waited.

One of them men said, "We are travelers. We simply need to get to Western Wiles which is as you know on the otherside of the Nircoti Wilderness..." She turned her back on them and gave the money to the store owner. Picking up her stuff, she turned back around and straightened ready to leave. "You men think that because I'm Nircoti that I can guide you?" They nodded. She pressed them, "So you ruin my shopping trip with your loud ruckus and then try to hire me." The fools they were, they held up their money bag and replied, "We have lots of money. All of it is right here." She reached out and deftly took the bag right out of his outstretched hands, "Deal. We leave at sunrise. Meet me at the western gate before the sun's rays touch the wall and I will take you with me. I don't reimburse late people." With that, she strode out of the store past gawking stares.

As she went through the door, she paused holding the door open. Turning back she suggested, "And I don't like babbling. Rule number one, no mumbling or babbling. If you do, instant guide disappearance act will occur." Letting go of the door, she let it swing shut. Walking up to the front desk, she stopped and nodded to him. He leaned forward eagerly, "It is done? They will go? Thank you! I will have everything ready for you as quickly as possible. The information you wanted will be here at the front desk. I will stay on duty to personally ensure this. Thank you, thank you so much for getting them out of our store." He quite to a stop as the stunned crowd inside started to disperse. Some were coming out now. Amid them were the three clumsy fools, scurrying through the room and out the front door like beaten dogs. She and the desk worker watched them go dispassionately.

Gage had to lean forward a bit to hear what the three fools were muttering on about. It seemed they wanted a guide to the same area as Gage. It was more than a perfect setup! Safety in numbers tended to jump into his head, but these three didn't look half competent. That did dampen his spirits, but Gage wasn't totally useless in a fight. He could definitely defend himself, and Lola. Marin, if she was unable to completely care for herself in an offensive situation, could outrun most dangers. But he worried; what if this Nircoti didn't like groups much larger than four? He'd be well out of luck then, and back on square one. No one else wanted to help him, and it would probably take a while for someone willing to come back around.

He moved forward as the three left rather dejectedly. His nerves were frayed, mostly from worry that she would decline a few others to come along. He stepped around the shelf separating them and came into view. "Excuse me, miss." He said at once, before worry made his tongue into lead. "I overheard you speaking to those three travelers a moment ago and hoped, perhaps, you would accept three more? My nieces and I have to get to the same place, however, we have no guide. My younger niece Lola is who desperately needs the trip, so if you can't take more than one extra, I can send her along with you instead." He put a hand to his waist, feeling for the extra bag of money he'd carried with him. "I can certainly pay for the trip for her."

Gage didn't know whether the expression on his face was worry, fear, nervousness... He'd never been able to control what emotions showed, while Lola seemed rather barren of expressive ability for the most part, beginning after her father died. Still, Gage didn't care what he looked like. As long as Lola, at least, could join the group.

She looked over at him surprised, then glanced at the desk worker. The desk worker shrugged and backed up. She had not meant to draw more possible clients by getting those three men off the trading post's back. What was she supposed to do now? The group was getting larger than she had planned. She looked him up and down. His eyes were aware, he moved with instinct-like balance, his long blonde hair framed a concerned face. The concern was one of two things that caught her attention. It was more his eyes though. He was a good man who honestly cared about his family. She normally didn't shake hands. Not with foreigners. However, she wanted to know what the palm of his hand felt like. She offered her hand saying, "The name is Sharana. Can you be ready at sunrise at the west gate?" She would actually have to figure out a price now. She didn't want to take all his money, just most of it.

Gage paused, for half a second deciding whether or not to accept the gesture. He did, however, thankful. "Gage." He offered Sharana his own name. Her grip was powerful, and that was a bit of a relief considering the situation. "We'll be ready and over early, you have my word." He felt around his belt, and pulled a second money bag from his deep pocket. "This should be enough, yes?" He held it forward. "It's likely much more than the other three gave you." He had extra, but hoped she would accept this. The rest of the money on his person would have to be used for supplies for himself and the girls, which he could get in the shop itself.

She felt satisfaction in his rough hands. He wasn't going to be a charity case that required babysitting. Also, it gave her overall impression of him more firm backing. Gage was used to doing something for himself instead of relying on others. Time would tell the rest of his character. Also, he gave a good firm handshake. Neither wimpy nor overly tight. Perhaps he and his family would make it. That didn't mean she would help them. Her job was just to make sure they didn't get lost or eaten. "That is plenty for you three. I'm only a guide. You will have to fend for yourselves outside of following me. Can you accept that?" She looked Gage firmly in the eye. He had two choices. He thought he knew what they were, but he didn't really and she wasn't going to enlighten him. The Nircotian Wilderness was not an easy feat to enter or leave. Some people just didn't survive.

This girl didn’t drive that hard a bargain. Gage had been prepared for much worse on his part. Still, he didn’t count his blessings quite yet. Instead, he nodded quickly and gratefully. “Absolutely.” He said surely. “All we need is someone to help us stay on the right path. I’m sure my older niece and I can take care of Lola.”

Should he mention their names? He doubted it would matter anyway. He shook that away. “Well, I suppose we’ll meet again come dawn.” He said with a finalty. He nodded to Sharana and turned, moving off to look at the supplies they would need. Clothing, at least. Especially warm clothing. Lola didn’t have much to wear other than that lightweight dress and thin shoes. Food, most definitely. Gage had no idea how sparse the land would be as they moved through. Extra herbs, if they had the right ones. Lola had quite a bit of trouble sleeping and would need assistance most nights.

Sharana watched Gage as he walked back into the shop. Once he was gone, she turned and glared at the desk worker. The desk worker shrank back, "I'll have your information ready for you before you leave." Silently, she strode past the desk and it's nervous worker to the stairs at the back. Going up them, she made her way down the hall to her room and unlocked it. Going inside, she returned to her bed to restart her meditations. Relaxing around here was just about impossible. Even in her room unseen, people still found a way to bother her. And it always had to do with her Nircotian Wilderness.

As the evening slipped into early morning, she slowly began to rest. Being in a meditative state as she was, she was semi alert to what happened around her. Yet at the same time that she kept her focus, she also got the rest that she needed. Now as the darkest hour before dawn came, she arose and picked up her saddle bags and roll. Heading downstairs, she noted how much more quiet it was in the lobby without sounds coming in from the bar or from the store. She paused at the desk to collect her information. The desk worker had been kind enough to wrap it in a oilskin to protect it from water. Slipping the package into a saddlebag, she left the trading post and headed outside. Her horse was waiting for her. An early morning bird let out it's chipper song in the early hour.

She walked with purpose towards the west gate. It wasn't long until sunrise. Already the graying sky was showing promise of the sunrays that would soon light the walls of the settlement. Jinmae wasn't extremely large, however it was well organized. As she approached the gate, a lonely figure stood up and waited for her. She paused as she reached the man. He had a charming look, but dark eyes. He quickly introduced himself to the silent Nircoti, "My name is John. I couldn't help but overhear last night that you were leading a group through the Nircoti Wilderness. I would happily pay the same amount as the other three." She mentally groaned. Not another. However, he also would have two choices. She might just nudge him towards the fatal one. Taking his money bag, she turned back to the gate and began to walk, "Come along then."

The guards at the gate opened it up for them. They slipped through and found the other three already there, being small pests. John looked at them and resignation crossed his face. Then he put charm into his features, "My name is John. Who are you gentlemen?" They seemed to straighten up at that and introduced themselves as Larry, Curly, and Moe. They started talking together while she leaned against the wall. She noticed a feeling of being watched. And waited. Up on top the wall, a figure had exited the guard house after talking with the soldiers inside. He looked down at the scene below. The guy, John, who had hired him as a bodyguard had bought his way into the traveling group. Good. He headed down the stairs to let the guide know there was more than one coming along. A nice little surprise for the Nircoti runt. The guards began opening the gate for him to pass through when he got to the bottom.

Before returning as quickly as possible to the inn, Gage gathered a good amount of light enough clothing and bags, some dried food. Two of the bags would be better held by him and Marin, and some of the food would be best kept by Lola's basket. He paid the desk worker and left with a word of thanks and wave he managed well enough with his hands full, and made it back to the inn without incident. On one of the beds, Lola had curled underneath the blanket of the bed far from the door, and Marin had just finished sharpening the blade of her knife. She looked up when Gage returned. "We'll be heading off very early in the morning." He noted. "Before sunrise. We'll meet a few others, so it won't be a very small group." Honestly he'd prefer the group to be much smaller. In fact, he'd prefer the group to be several people fewer, for Lola's sake. She'd be rather nervous around so many others.

He and Marin packed the bags in the right way, distributing supplies between the bags and packing the basket Lola set on the bedside table before falling asleep. Already Gage could see the trouble in her dreams. Her small, long-fingered hands curled around themselves, making a ball of doubled fists under her chin, and her eyes twitched as she watched the images fly by, recreating her worst fears, though they were in her past. Gage shook his head, but didn't wake her. Troubled sleep was always better than none at all.

He sent Marin to bed as evening grew later, though she grumbled before lying beside her sister and closing her eyes with a sigh. Gage laid down on the second bed, closer to the door, and stared at the wooden ceiling. Sleep didn't come easily, though he willed it, and not even clearing his mind would allow him to rest. He did manage it, however, after what seemed like days.

When morning came he woke Marin first, getting her up so she could get ready. Lola was usually ready after brushing her hair, and not much else. He woke her easily, since her dreams tended to follow her into reality, but this morning she opened her startling blue eyes warily, and sat up with a small smile. Marin and Gage swung their bags over their shoulders, and Lola took her basket, and they left the Inn.

They arrived at the gate just in time to see that a couple new travelers had joined the group. Silently Gage hoped that there would be no more than that, and glanced around for any stragglers. But he saw none, and grasped Lola's hand as they arrived. Marin went toward the conversing group immediately, and Lola shrunk back into Gage's leg.

Sharana stood there as Gage approached with his two charges, a frown on her face. She didn't bother to hide her displeasure. "John, you should have mentioned that there would be another with you. Why did you hide this from me?" Her stance seemed alert and relaxed, yet her senses were keen. She knew she could easily dispatch John and his "bodyguard" if she so chose. She was completely surrounded by Rom people. This group was too large. It felt like a setup.

John shrugged, "You didn't ask. I paid enough for three people. Surely that is recompense enough for this imagined slight." His bodyguard stood behind him with his arms crossed. He added, "The name is Ray. I had hoped you would keep your word to leave at dawn. Dawn is here." He pointedly turned and nodded towards the rising sun. She stood there, simmering in anger. This truly felt like a setup. John only increased those suspicions. He used the one thing that was a tell tale for her - charm. He turned to the three idiots, "Women. What can you do about them and their volatile feelings right." He finally caught sight of Gage, Marin, and Lola. His grin widened. With perfect gentleman hospitality, he said, "But let us not bicker. Not with these lovely ladies in our midst. Welcome gallant sir, young mistress, and little lady. Are you ready?"

Sharana strolled forward at that. Gruffly, with an air of distaste, she cut in, "It is time to leave. That I won't dispute. Glad you three arrived. Now we must be off." She looked down at Lola. The girl was so small and delicate. She was in no shape for such a journey. "Will your youngest be able to handle this trip? It is a long way through dangerous terrain." She honestly doubted it. Might as well run a sword through the girl now and save her the trials of the wilderness. She was sure to die along the way anyways.

Marin didn't seem to be listening to anyone after she was spoken to. She scowled and withdrew the blade from her sheath, placing it under the black-haired man's thin chin. "Don't talk to me like I'm a thing." She spat. "I'll cut you so fast you'll be dead before you hit the ground!"

John's bodyguard moved forward, but Gage snapped Marin back and out of the situation. "Settle." He growled at her. "We'll get past this without anyone killing anyone else just because of a few looks." Then he glanced at Sharana. "Lola's much more resilient than she looks, I assure you." He noted. "She's been through a lot, and she's made it through plenty of wild situations. You'll be fine, won't you?" He glanced down at Lola, as she stepped to his side and squared her shoulders. Without a word, she nodded once. Gage sighed; she hadn't spoken in several days now, the longest she'd ever gone. Although she did seem to be more determined now that someone brought up her fragile appearance. Lola was well enough off with a knife, though she could probably be overpowered by large animals or men, which Gage was absolutely terrified of.

He cleared his throat as Marin sheathed her knife, muttering and shooting venomous glares at John and his brutish guard. "Erh, like you said, it's best to be off." He said. "Shall we?" He wanted so much to take the focus from Lola. She wouldn't do so herself, unless absolutely cornered.

Ray frowned at the girls in their group. He hadn't taken their presence into consideration. However, the guards on the wall were witnesses to their departure. Perhaps they could yet be of use. Females in distress could bring about all kinds of events. He turned and followed John to the road. He calculatingly watched Sharana mount. It was obvious she was good with horses. The mountains though were not easy to travel by, horse or no horse. That put them on equal footing in his mind.

Sharana trotted her horse to the road and looked back at them. Such a large group. So many Roms to boot. This wasn't a good start either. She gritted her teeth and forced herself to calm down. She was hired as their guide. Time to go over rules. "Alright listen up. Rules. I lead. Don't bicker, second guess, or act foolish in regards to the fact that I am your guide. You hired me. If you go against my wishes, then I will bow out of our contract. You aren't allowed in the Nircotian Wilderness without a Nircoti guide. So if I bow out, I am honor bound to kill you. So do as I say when I say to do it. If you listen to me, you stand a higher chance of living over certain death." She gave each a pointed stare, one at a time, including Lola. She would not go easy on the girl.

Larry looked at his two friends uncertainly. Perhaps this alternative wasn't as good as they had thought. Curly punched his arm and pushed him forward. Correctly reading the hesitation in Larry's eyes, Curly was determined to get them started so that they could look back. Moe followed, trying to figure out a way for this to be more to their advantage. Sharana watched them for a moment with veiled eyes. Her thoughts were going to have to remain hidden from this group. Gears were already turning, translating every word and action to be weighed and judged. They had only a short walk until they reached the base of the mountain. Hour tops. Then the trials would begin. Glancing at Gage and his group, she couldn't suppress her grimace. They were her unknowns. She had passed judgement on the characters of the others here. It had been easy. However those three were not the typical idiots she dealt with.

Lola pulled her basket onto the crook of her arm and stayed close to Gage. She really disliked these others. They were too loud. They moved too quickly. They were... stupid. She wasn't one to think of the word, but it was true. When Sharana turned her gaze to the girl, Lola stared back evenly. She wasn't about to show her weakness. That wasn't going to happen. She didn't care about this guide's rules, she didn't really care about any rules. She never broke them, even when she tried. Why would she talk back? Why would she be stupid enough to wander off or think she could lead them through a place she'd never been in before? The rules weren't really rules, they were more... common sense. Something the others probably lacked.

She stepped close to Gage and stared on until Sharana's gaze turned away from hers. Then she lowered hers, back to the ground. Lola didn't like to be challenged even by those that could obviously kill her quickly. She stepped forward first, beyond Gage and in front of them. Marin stared at her, even as Sharana looked back at them, perhaps studying or sizing them up.

John tried to keep up his nonchalant attitude and succeeded for a time. The only ones who seemed readily responsive to his influence was the three he mentally called 'the three stooges.' Moe talked with him the most. John knew his type. He was looking for anything to use as an advantage. Well two could play that game and Moe was in over his head. The way John saw it, Moe and his companions were pawns to be used. He knew that Ray agreed with him. John might be the nicely dressed, charming gentleman who liked his females. Ray was his counterpart. An apparent youth to those who looked at him, Ray dressed in black leather armor and toted a large sword. Most would not take him seriously for his age, but that was to their own death. John had seen Ray in deadly action and knew that his 'bodyguard' was going to be a major player in their plan.

John's uncertainty in how well his plan would work though when they reached the start of the wilderness trail. It was rocky right to where it met the valley's base meadow. Sprigs of grass quickly disappeared as rock and more rock towered above them. Sharana took her mount right onto the narrow trail. She glanced back, distain showing in her eyes for them as she called out a warning, "You think the trail is narrow now, then prepare yourself. It will get more narrow and highly unstable the further we climb up." He quickly responded, "I've seen worse. This is nothing." She ignored him. He glanced at Ray. Ray let a small grin answer him.

Gage kept Marin on his far side, farthest away from everyone else. She loved confrontation, and sword size didn't matter against ability with a blade. It made Marin think John's little bodyguard was compensating for something. She turned away as a devilish grin crossed her face at the thought. Had they been in a different situation, and if Gage hadn't been so uptight, she would have voiced the thought aloud. It would possibly have started a fight, not to her annoyance. But she didn't want to upset Gage; she'd seen him angry a few times. He was one of the few who scared her under those rare situations.

As they approached the start of the trail. Gage took the bag off his back and handed Lola a pair of thicker, more durable shoes, and a light jacket. He glanced up as they spoke, but didn't reply. He'd seen trails similar to this one, though he'd been younger, and now he couldn't recall quite as well as he used to.

As they began forward, Lola's busy hands dug in her basket and found her flute. During the evening she'd made it a bit smoother, and as she blew into it, letting out a low, lonely melody, it sounded much cleaner. Its sound didn't carry far, perhaps only to the edge of the whole of the group. It was a weak little thing, though when they reached the city, she'd be able to learn how to make professional instruments. Gage let himself think on that, rather than the harshness of the wilderness they were crossing.

Ray practiced restraint. Their plan was working perfectly. He kept the grin that tugged at the corners of his mouth from fully creating itself. A sound reached his ears that made him jump. Recognizing it as music, he glanced at the little girl who was playing. A wisp of a thing like her didn't deserve to be out here. He snarled in her direction, but turned away at John's warning look. Looking up ahead, he saw Sharana's surprised look at Lola before she turned to him. Immediately her face closed up again as she swung to gaze up the trail. He frowned. Sharana was smarter than she looked.

The way station where they could stop for lunch was an hour or two up the trail from them. The last place before there was no return. For the trail from that point on was turn narrow to dismount from or turn a horse around on. The way station itself had a pen for their horses carved into the very mountain's rocky side. In front of the pen was a large towering building. Walls of stone and rafters of thick oak, the formidable place withstood the winters' rage and spring's furious wind. They could dine outside on the cliff's, though it was advised against by the Nircoti staff since accidents do happen. They could dine or stay the night inside. There was a large hall for desperate guests who didn't mind rock-laid floors. Sharana guessed they would be there by lunch, then the real trouble would begin.

Marin glanced down at Lola. She was supposed to watch over her sister, but couldn't figure out how. Of course it was easy to just follow along a few steps behind the girl, but it wasn't easy when Lola could just vanish in a moment. She was glad to be able to gift off that responsibility while she investigated the others just at Gage's side. She couldn't stand the look of the light-haired one, who looked about her age. Maybe it was that overwhelming feeling of foreboding when she looked at him, or the twitching of his facial muscles that told her he was hiding something... Something big. She shook her head, but placed and kept her hand on the handle of the stiff, thin blade in her belt loop. Size didn't matter in weaponry; skill did.

Lola stopped her music suddenly and lowered her flute, dropping it as they walked. "Be right back." She muttered. Gage looked down at her, but didn't dare stop; Lola wasn't halting either--- in fact, she was walking faster. "Be right back. Be right back... B-be right... back..." It took Gage a moment to realize the importance of what she was saying, but realized after the sixth repeat that it was what her father had said to her right before leaving their home... Lola had wanted to accompany him to the nearest town, before he'd been killed in front of her. Gage only heard her say those words when she was asleep, in the midst of the nightmare of that evening. He put his hand on her shoulder. "Shh, Lola. Focus." He whispered. Marin glanced over as her young sister blinked, grasping her uncle's hand hard. Gage continuously questioned her, but she didn't respond after that.