*Metsar approaches Denak, who is sitting down near the emissary entrance.*

"Ashaltiasten, Mr. Kalamari, and welcome. I apologize for the wait. What brings you by?"

*Maikyl returns the bow.*

"Very well then, you may speak with him whenever he's ready. He still hasn't washed or changed since this ordeal at that Gallentean club. Hopefully it won't be too long. You may wait in the lounge if you'd like. I was about to break fast and I could have Torsuul bring you a plate as well if you're hungry? Of course I understand if you're busy and would like to come back."

"Well then Denak, I suppose its time we get back to where we were." He says, turns to Metsar, giving him a strange defeated look.

"The paladin will already know this, or he will soon enough. But as I said earlier, Satja is indeed a mortal. In our line of work meeting immortals and mortals is common enough, though the two usually tend to separate themselves voluntarily. Since the pair of us had been out on the front lines in Devoid I guess I forgot how dangerous they can be..... it one thing to know your enemy is immortal and across the lines... its another to have one appear when you think you are safe."

"I...." The Templar hesitates, as if unsure what to say to justify his actions.

His head slumps defeated.

"I am loathed to part with her. She has been my servant and friend since my...turning... and one of those people who eased my doubts in the early days. I suppose ever since we dragged her out of the downed shuttle on Iesa III, badly burnt and scarred.... I feel.... responsible for her now."

"In anycase, I found it.... disturbing to have left Satja on her own in combat. She has never seen the front lines of the Crusade, nor been allowed access to certain holy regions of our planets... but for the most part she has been close. A difficult life for a mortal...."

He smiled, as if some thought has given him great joy.

"I swear" you could hear the pride in his voice, it was a nostalgic and warm tone.

"She could have been a Kamiera that one. A better fighter that I was mortal... though I suppose not so learned. Either way she is important to me, like an anchor that keeps me in the present...."

"Being an immortal soldier, even in the service of the Lord is difficult sometimes...damnation is not an easy prospect to face..... but one worth facing for my people. Surely Denak there must be things that you do that don't often make proper sense, I know this does not justify me risking her...but I.... I am kind of hoping you know how I feel on this."

He turned back to the Intaki, meeting his gaze.

"You think I am foolish?"

'I suppose that it seems odd for an immortal to place such... dependence on a mortal...My mind would say its folly but for the warning in my heart that tells me otherwise..."

He shrugged again.

"Many people have told me I am foolish over the years.... old friends, officers, and enemies...I suppose I have heard that all my life."

"Forgive me for prying...but I know so little about you Denak surely you must have met people like this in your time as an immortal. The people who make it bearable.... I am somewhat curious about where you come from. As a scion of the Intaki you carry yourself better than most I meet from the Federation."

"So now you know" says the Templar letting out a nervous laugh, it was thin, weak. "I guess you know why I am so defensive around Satja.... I suppose with good reason. But I shouldn't keep you any longer Denak, as I am sure both you and I have other business to attend. Later today you might find me in the gymnasium if you desire to talk more."

Behind him the door to the emissary open.