<div class="floatleft">(http://i66.tinypic.com/2diegso.jpg)</div><br/><br/>Mia woke early, as was her habit.  However, rather than going back to the common area right away, she remained with Cassia, waiting until the other had woken as well.  She sat, kneeling on the ground, eyes closed.  Slowly, she breathed in and out, her chest slowly rising and falling.  Meditation was good for many things, body, mind, and spirit.  She suspected that these lands would test all three.<br/><br/>When she did finally return to the common room, her eyes were bright, and she moved with her usual graceful energy.  She offered her customary bow, one hand folded over the other, to each other member, Drake included, her lips twisting ever so slightly with amusement as she greeted him.<br/><br/>Her expression became thoughtful, her head tilting to the side.  "I see.  Perhaps that will resolve the dilemma we encountered last night.  One group can search for the priests, the other the slavers."  She gave a nod.  "I think that I should join the search for the priests.  I... understand that way of life."<br/><br/>She hesitated a moment, glancing through her lashes at the others.  "There is another thing."  One hand dipped gracefully into a pouch at her belt.  She drew forth a collection of herbs, partially ground up.  "I have begun preparing a mixture that should inhibit our cycles.  I have a feeling that it will be of use to us soon.  It should be dry soon; once it is, I suggest that everyone ingest a little."  Her lips curled up again.  "With the exception of Drake, of course."