Excerpt: One Fall Day at the Crying Cat Inn

“We just checked in at the Crying Cat this morning.” said Axel. “I'm pretty sure that our hall is not full.”
“Well, fine lady and gentlemen, this is where I shall take my leave. You all know how to send messages to me, and covert ones too if necessary. Stay alert and stay out of harm's way. Try to only trust each other, but don't discredit everyone you meet.”
Marc turned to leave the square. “Good luck” he thought. He paused to admire the party as they began to discuss lodgings and dinner under the maple trees. The fall foliage was was warm with deep oranges and burning reds. A part of him wished that he could leave the responsibilities behind and join them. It was bad enough that he had asked Uruvial to join the excursion. She had hesitated at first. The council had no objections with her leaving. As soon as she came back, she would be welcome to reclaim her advisory position. Axel would be perfect for the task. He had wisely maneuvered himself out of the decision making and authority that Marc had to currently oversee. He couldn't separate Axel from Uruvial. Their love was still young, but it was very strong. He had seen Axel continue to love and protect Uruvial, even as the black orb nearly possessed her. He kicked his way through the fallen leaves and headed to the temple district. At least one temple would need to be able to perform a wedding when his friends returned.