Satisfied with his artistic representation of the tattoo, Elandris noted that the Knight had settled himself into the surrounding underbrush, with an intent care not to make himself too visible, but at the same time leave himself unencumbered by heavy undergrowth should a melee ensue during the night. Again, it piqued the Warden's investigative interest. Karrlandren was no simple sellsword; the grace with which he performed everyday mundane activities suggested a noble upbringing in itself. His prowess on the battlefield belied classical training, that of a valorous nature, contrary to the techniques Elandris had been taught. To the Warden, Honor was a notion of luxury; on the field of battle it was not an option, and whatever would end the fight as quickly(if bloodily) as possible was always the most desired method.<br/>But that was not Karrlandren, Elandris could tell simply from observing his manner and temperament.<br/>He was much more than a hireling, but how much more Elandris did not presume to guess. Assumptions were dangerous, and danger was another thing Wardens avoided, when possible.<br/>Judging the most effective position to assist the Knight were he to fall under attack during the darkness, Elandris crossed the clearing and skipped up the thick trunk of a suitable elm, coming to a rest on a large bough midway to the leafy crown. Lining up his feet in front of him and clasping his hands about his knees, the Warden tucked the brim of his hat down over his eyes and dozed, ears tensing for any sounds of movement.<br/><br/>Twice, during the night, his eyes snapped open and searched the shadowy ground for any signs of attack or stealthy approach. Twice, he was satisfied and twitched them back to an uneasy sleep.<br/>The night passed uneventfully, and soon the lances of the rising orange sun arcing through the leaves of the forest beheld the Warden sitting, cross-legged before a bed of red-hot coals, the thin trail of smoke rising from it mingling with the morning mist and disappearing. Karrlandren's kettle boiled atop the coals and Elandris lit his pipe with a glowing ember. Today, they would find a way across the river.