Melina stood in the path, unmoving while the hooded stranger approached. She had to stop her hands from going to her apron, wanting to wring the material in her palms as her nerves frayed at his presence. It was always tense when people found them, even when their intentions were harmless. Several years ago, during a harsh storm, she had to turn away a family in fear that they were a plant of the Lotan Empire. It pained her heart to think that they were left in the cold rain to travel elsewhere for shelter when she would have gladly offered it had the circumstances been different. Unfortunately they were very much the same, and as the stranger dismounted and paused before her, she knew she would have to do the same no matter what his story was. Melina opened her mouth to tell him to turn around and go back from where he came, but he uttered words she never thought she would hear. “What?” She breathed quietly with her eyes wide in confusion and awe. “What did you say?” She asked again, wondering if she heard him correctly. Before the man could respond, Sebis came from the garden and swiftly drew his hidden weapon.<br/><br/>He narrowed the tip toward their ally, threatening his life firmly. Melina turned and stepped between them, placing herself in harm’s way now that the traveler’s words had sank in. “No, Sebis! This man is with the Resistance. He said the words. I believe he comes in peace.” The old woman explained as calmly as she possibly could to diffuse all the hostility. She looked over her shoulder at the hooded man, nodding for him to confirm that his intentions were true and that he was, in fact, a member of the Resistance. When he did, the gray haired man reluctantly lowered his weapon, but kept it drawn in case he was not who he said he was. Over the years they had exchanged many messages, corresponding with the Captain who kept them informed of their advancements in the impeding uprising. It was possible for their letters to have been intercepted, and for that reason the old man never quite let his guard down.<br/><br/>“Please, come inside.” Melina said, looking around as though they might be being watched. Years in hiding had made her paranoid. She waved the stranger along, allowing him into their spacious cottage where a fire was burning in the hearth. Savory scents filled the home. They were nearly about to sit down for dinner when he arrived. The two women were in the kitchen, holding plates and silverware nervously upon seeing the hooded man. “It’s alright. He is a friend, I believe.” Melina informed them, prompting them to come from their places and relax a bit. “This is Faye and Cornelia, loyal servants of Princess Vail de Warren. You may sit, tell us your business here.”<br/><br/>They all hoped that the news he brought was good, that the time had come for Vail to ascend to the throne and reclaim her title as the ruler of Anadan.