Like a trapped rat before hunger cats, I can tell the smooth talker is beginning to sweat. It is true that he may have the sweet words and the right motions. I would say it is like a doomed dance between the two. I wonder if Kitsune has a history with Sage. . . Anyways, the troubled elf straightens up his clothing. His smile remains continuous throughout the whole scene. He loosens himself up before his audience. Rolling his shoulders and fixing his suit, Sage peers around the room. Son waits with a dagger in his hand while toying with it. Kitsune has put her weapon back into his clothing as she fans herself impatiently. I am back here with Yuki and Ryu. I guess we are observers in the whole standoff. The brave and courageous Sage steps forward with a clear voice, "My sweetheart, I knew you understand the value of my knowledge."

"Do not flatter yourself! If you had not assisted Meo with her escape, then you would be dead now."

A bead of sweat slips down his head, "Ah, but I did an honorable thing. So how about you listen now, eh?"

"Get to the point Sage," Kitsune demands.

"Alright. Alright," Sage nods, "Salgo is hiding in the Nomadic City is what rumor would have your believe. Of course there are hundreds more rumors of him being spotted about the country. But I know for a fact where he is hidden at this very moment. I know because I am the one who helped him escaped. Salgo has gone to-"

"Again, I care not for Salgo the Human. . . He is a waste of time to chance like a ghost. Whatever knowledge he has to help with the new war effort is not of my concern. I fought in the last war. There has been ten years of peace and we are now hidden from the humans. So now I care for my city and only my city," Kitsune rolls her eyes.

"I assure you that you will care about the war effort as the humans are going to find our lands again!"

"Nice try, Sage," Kitsune stares at him, "Get on with it."

"Sport there knows a great deal about science. He would be helpful to assist with improving the city's defenses and weaponry," Sage grins.

"He is going to be adopted into our clan. I think it is for him to choose, if he wishes to share his brilliant knowledge or not."

"Umm. . . You will need me to help you make sense of it. The kid is not good at explaining concepts in lamest terms."

"I am wise, Sage. I am very sure I can understand his idea over time."

Sage rocks on his heels. His attempts to interest Kitsune are falling flat. I sit in wonder as I am not sure how I feel about the whole adoption thing. I mean I know the creatures are known to adopt humans who are important and supportive of their culture. Yet I know that I have not been embraced by a clan before. I really hope I do not have to get a mark of the clan. I also hope I can slip away from them. However, if Meo will be there it may be to my benefit to go to that girl. I could ask her for advice on getting home. Although last time I asked, she told me to sit in a field and do nothing. I laughed at her so hard and continued on my way. I wonder what would have happened if I did listen to her.

Sage says, "I know where Hana is. Do you know?"

"Now you speak about something to care about," Kitsune at last beams.

"Yes, your sister," Sage looks around, "I believe she is everyone's friend here, too."