“A pleasure, Zairi,” Atrius replied  He was vaguely aware that the elf girl’s facial marking suggested some sort of crime or shame, but didn’t know the specifics.  They didn’t really have the leisure to turn away a skilled mage right now.<br/><br/>Besides, she was quite lovely.<br/><br/>The shepard gave the gate guard who’d given warning a gracious nod and replied, “Thank you.” He glanced back at the others, including the elfkin priest who’d yet to chime in.  “They’re right  We need to get moving.”<br/><br/>He released Ari’s so the blond girl could manuver as she liked, loosened a pouch on his belt that contained a lovely white sand, and started through the gate.<br/><br/>On the other side, he strode steadily into the ruins.  Along with keeping his eye open for ambush, Atruis took note of how far apart most buildings were, to get an idea of how much distance ambushers would likely have t cross, and wether or not long range weapons would be useful.<br/>