"You did indeed," she said as she led him towards the open gate to the city. "Although, as weird as it sounds, it feels...odd to be riding out on a horse other than her.<br/><br/>As they entered the town Ariadne let out a sigh of relief, the streets at that hour were mostly empty, other than children ducking into doorways, and the occasional shoddily dressed soldier who seemed to pay them no heed. Near the centre of the town they finally stopped in front of an extraordinary looking building: It was made out of stones that appeared far sturdier than the defensive walls, a well-thatched roof covering the second storey of the building. The occasional neigh from nearby indicated that there was a stable behind the building. Sat on a bench in front of it, dressed in a uniform that seemed two sizes too big for him and leaning against a spear as tall as he was, was a young boy, his unkempt red hair half-hidden by a helmet which had fallen down his face. Indicating for Daric to wait Ariadne jumped off the horse, moving towards the boy as if she hadn't noticed him.<br/><br/>"I was told this inn was guarded by the bravest soldier south of the Badlands," she said airily. "But all I see is a child up past his bedtime." At the latter comment the boy sprung up, but his retort died on his lips as he caught sight of the elf in front of him. "Alex, it has been far too long."<br/><br/>"Auntie Arrie," the boy said excitedly, pulling her into a hug. "I told father you'd be back eventually." He caught sight of Daric behind her. "Who's your friend?"