Always one slow to speak, Aristophillia leaned slightly and  listened to the dark young man's words. "Zepher." The word rolled off her tongue easily. "You may call me Ari, if you'd like." It was a common nickname from many of her caretakers: not many liked to use her full name as it was fairly long. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Zepher." A slight smile pulled at the corner of the young woman's lips. "Although, I wish it were under different circumstances."<br/><br/>Aristophillia's words were cut off as the Mayor introduced the guide of the group. His name was Parisi and he was a bird of a man: tall and thin, almost...whispy. He looked nervous. No, not nervous. Scared. Ari's faith in the mayor's judgement waivered. Was he capable of assembling the best entourage? There was money promised to them, should they service the journey. Enough to live comfortabky for the rest of their lives. Ari was sure that alone would draw even the most cowardice of men to attempt such a journey.<br/><br/>Her eyes dropped as Aristophillia became ashamed of her thoughts. Surely the Mayor knew what he was doing? After all, he had picked the last group: none of them survived...but they had had a plentyful year, so they surely succeeded in their mission. The rawr of the crowd was subdued when the Mayor spoke of the food being brought out. Servents in white flooded the hall with plates in hand. Only one stood out amongst the rest, an older gentleman in black. He alone began setting colorfull plates before Aristophillia, Zepher, and Parisi.