When Artus saw Merl leaving he waved his hand and the flames vanished. He suddenly merged with the wooden floor, sank into it almost vanishing, and traveled fast and unnoticed through it. When he got outside he transfered into the ground and followed merl down the road. Upon exiting the gate Artus transfered into the trees and jumped from tree to tree to stay close to Merl. He had passed Valda so fast they never even saw each other. He rematerialized close to Merl and ran up to him and grabbed his leg. "Gotcha! now its your turn." Artus said cheerfully and started walking beside the older man.