Hesitant welcome

You watch with Captain Ben and the rest of the crew as a small party comes over the rail onto your ship. To your surprise, they are led by a large, muscular man with dark skin, black hair, a pair of black cat ears, and a black furred tail. A double bladed axe is belted at his hip, and he moves with the confidence of a seasoned fighter.

You step forward, and you see his dark eyes flick to Caliburn at your side, then to Ferra and Alex at your side. He stops, nodding at you. “That’s close enough. Who are you, and what do you want? We don’t exactly welcome visitors here.”

You shrug. “Well, that’s a bit of a story. You see, I come from the south, from an empire called Athkalla. We sailed over two weeks to get here, and along the way we encountered and were attacked by a prison ship from the Order. The survivors joined my crew, and told me what they knew of this place. My name is Nicholas, and this is Ferra and Alex, my companions.”

The panther man looks at you curiously. “I’m Victor, leader of this cell. You say you come from the south, through the barrier? How is that possible?”

You shake your head. “I didn’t even know the barrier existed. My father sent me on this mission, and upon learning of the Order, and how they rule, I realized that I can’t support them. It’s my hope that you’re a better choice.”

Victor stares at you. “And what makes you think we would accept you here?”

You shrug. “Nothing. But if you’re fighting against a tyrannical regime, I feel like I should offer my assistance.”

He looks at you for a moment longer before nodding. “Very well. I will bring you before the seer. She will determine the truth of your words. One condition, however. Leave your weapon here.”

You smile. “I will do that. Ferra and Alex will accompany me, however.”

Victor nods. “That’s acceptable. Come with me, then.”

You hand Caliburn to Captain Ben for safekeeping. “I’ll be back soon. I think this will work out.”

With that, you turn and follow Victor to his boat. Alex and Ferra follow, and soon you’re pulling in to the dock. You feel many eyes on you as you’re led to a small building near the dock. The whole village looks quite makeshift, and it’s obvious that this group is doing the best they can with extremely limited resources. Victor opens the door with a creak, and gestures inside.