Ketzubelle Deepwalker
In response to Salem’s innocent question, the constable shook his head and sighed softly. “Boy,” he rumbled, “I told you we are goin’ to see the Captain. You won’t even think about leavin’ ‘til then.” The man paused a moment, listening rather impatiently to Salem’s next query. “If they’re here in the Domes, we can send a runner when we come across ‘un. But…” he paused, pointedly inspecting Salem’s clothing. “I get the feelin’ you ain’t no local. Now, let’s go.” The man was plainly done with answering questions, and he made his impatience all the more clear as he slightly raised the gun and motioned toward the door.
Ket, who had been watching the scene unfold with quiet interest, gave a small shrug, then nonchalantly began walking toward the door, leading the small party. She cut off the constable’s warning to stay behind him with a wave of her hand and a carefree, “No worries, I’m fine.” She adjusted her backpack slightly as she walked, taking a mental inventory to make sure she had not left anything behind, and held her runelight slightly in front of her. When she approached the door, she stuck the small, marble-like object back in her pocket. It gleamed through the fabric a moment, then suddenly darkened, as though it knew it was no longer needed. She slowed as she exited, waiting for Salem especially to catch up to her.
The well-lit hall was bright after the near-pure darkness of the room, but it took only a moment to adjust to the warm, orange-red lighting. It was much easier on the eyes than the smaller runelights, but still provided plenty of light to see by. As Salem came out into the light, Ket waited for him to adjust. The constable emerged just a moment later, and, seeing Ket unconcernedly standing near the boy once again, heaved a sigh and holstered his weapon. He didn’t clasp the holarwe closed, however, and Ket noticed the ever-vigilant tension of his form. Though he projected confidence, he was by no means letting down his guard. He motioned to their left, and Ket started off, matching her pace to Salem’s.