"Thanks for the extra portal, Zak! Thanks for everything!" replied Sterling as he tucked the page away in his belt pouch. "God willing, if all goes well, we should be hooking up with you guys in about a week or so, depending upon how long it takes us to find this wizard. Still, take care of yourself and I wish all of you city-bound folk the best!"
Turning to Kryschenn and Iris, the Swordsman then said, "Keep your eyes open and your blades sharp! Remember, until everyone else gets a good handle on their abilities, you two are the only ones standing between them and a possible untimely death. I believe in you two, and above all--be careful! And that's ditto for you as well, Ashleyien" Including the young Swordswoman who would join him in the swamp.
The Drow walked over to Tommy and put his hand on his shoulder, "Tommy, we've known each other for a long time, and I need a big favor from you. I don't know what choice you've made, but I would like for you to go to the city and help Kimmy and the others.
"The only reason why I'm asking this of you is because you're one of the most resourceful people that I've ever met. And that if--or when--Venger should pop up there, I would feel a little better knowing that you were standing with the others ready to oppose him. The choice is yours to make, and I'll abide by whatever you decide, but I would appreciate it if you would do this for me."
Looking down at Kimmy smiling from ear to ear, "And as for you, my dear, I'll give you a fencing lesson when we get back from the swamp. Until that time, take care and I'll see you when I see you." Shaking her mug instead of her hand. "Be careful with that mug, in some states, it could be a deadly weapon."
"Unless anyone objects, I'll go through the portal first, and see if everything is alright! If everything is okay, I'll wave the rest of you on through. Any objections?"
