Xarces merely grins as the kitsune struggles to get a word in edgewise as the two work together to free the gnoll from the second log of clay.  "I agree, being bound and helpless, it does make you appreciate the freedom of movement we all take for granted." Able to see her body clearly now he would recognize her as indeed being a kitsune, Surkil had told him such, and he himself had heard tales of such beings. Of course how much of these stories where based on truth was yet to be seen. Either way his interest in her was quite apparent by the way his eyes lit up at the first glance of her vulpine tails.<br/><br/>As they finish freeing the gnoll the bard smiles"I do hope your friend here is all right...." he states looking to the gnoll with concern, though he would not dwell on the matter as there was much to discuss. Turning to the kitsune once more he speaks "So you are part of the party sent before us by Surkil after all, I am very glad to see that some of you yet live. He had dreaded the worst, and it appears that his fears where well founded. I and the others have been hired to perform that very same task, the retrieval of a particular relic......" He pauses for a moment pulling himself to his feet, whilst stowing away his blade. "That must mean, that you and your companion here are capable sorts, that's good....me and my allies can use all the help we can get in retrieving said artifact..." he stops midsentence realizing he was getting ahead of himself "That is of course if you are still interested....as after all, given what the two of you have been through, I would not blame you if you wish to return to society immediately." he finishes not wishing to seem insensitive to the hardships they have faced.<br/><br/>After a brief moment of silence he smiles and offers his hand "But where are my manners, the names Xarces, and it is an honor to meet such a rare and beautiful woman such as yourself...." he pauses, turning his eyes up at her curious to hear the name of the kitsune that stands before him.