Nirael rose on the horseback quietly but looked at the other two while listening to Mara's question and Lunari's answer, a faint smile playing on his lips. He had spent a fair while wandering on his own, seeing what the world had to offer, learning more of the art, and seeking to improve himself. All of that still left him feeling somewhat hollow, without a true purpose. He was a wanderer without a home or companion. Things had started to change, but in a good way.<br/><br/>The fact that Lunari was willing to offer such trust for him, and that Mara was willing to change sides and become one of his companions as well was touching, though a bit more paranoid side of him wanted to wait and see with Mara. Still, he felt reasonably sure things were as they seemed, and simply enjoyed the company.<strong>"I am a little humbled that it appears this task has fallen upon me after Lunari's father. I am not going to let the object fall into the demon's hands, and hope to see the other piece liberated from the demon's hands so the object can be brought together and its secrets explored."</strong>He smiled slightly at this, drawing a deep breath and sighing.<strong>"While I am not entirely sure what it is a key for, I am rather curious to learn. I am also hoping to prove worth the trust and the effort. There's plenty of tales of mages corrupted by power, and I hope that my rather... exotic approach to it will help keep me grounded."</strong>He flashed them a smile. Chuckling slightly at himself and continuing once more.<br/><br/><strong>"This kind of magic thrives with a companion willing to enjoy the delights of closeness, but it doesn't mean I am unable to cast at all if I don't enjoy pleasures. It enhances itself with, but does not depend upon such pleasures. Still, I hope that it manages to keep me from just locking myself up in a study somewhere and working on crazy ideas till I go crazy myself."</strong>He offered the two of them a brief grin and a laugh. Given his general behaviour, he might be accused of being completely mental at times he figured, but he did not think it likely that he'd end up the same way as some had.<strong>"Still, we'll get our answers eventually, and on the path there I hope to see you both thrive and rise alongside me."</strong>He briefly brushed his hair back and looked at the distance, falling into a silent stance again.