A funny looking little guy was shouting something at the small plaza near the end of the bridge. Shan went closer, near enough to catch the words. Ralf went even closer, almost to the guy himself, still curious of the common language which was somewhat new to him. Big "dog" appearing gave little guy a start, but he went on.<br/><br/>So, the authorities are finally doing something about the problem. Shan was very interested in how this would resolve. Yet, isn't it a bit strange that they are seeking volunteers? Surely, such a big port city would have its own ways to keep the seas safe. Had they failed already? Is the whole affair just to attract a cannon fodder? After all, a dead person needs no pay. Nah, it makes no sense, unless there is some trick at work, like hiring them as a bait.<br/>Unless they just need extra men to strengthen their existing patrols?<br/><br/>"Curiosity killed the cat", Shan thought. But already she was too curious and, seeking the way out of this city, she couldn't pass the chance to learn more of what was going on. The castle wasn't far from where she was going, but after some thought she turned back to fetch her weapons. If anything, she wouldn't look like a bystander with them on.<br/><br/>...<br/><br/>As Shan got closer to the castle, in her hide shirt, backpack on and weapons fixed to the belt, she noticed a lad strolling easily and yet determinately in the same direction and in a similar attire: he had a large backpack and a look of adventure about him.<em>Must be one of the volunteers for the job</em>, Shan thought.<br/>He was taller and walked faster, she had to speed up considerably trying not to loose him to the narrow streets. This part of the city had a life boiling, people of diverse breed were going after their jobs, browsing street markets, talking with each other, begging, or just standing there.<br/>"Hey!", Shan cried after the man, when it became too awkward for her to mince behind and she made her mind that it would be better coming in a company, "Pal! You're going to the castle on this ships business, don't you?"