'Chuckling at the thought, she continued to meander her way through the hall, slowly enabling herself to ignore the noises behind closed doors. Eventu...lly, however, her steps just followed a path where they felt like it, going about the second floor in circles. Passing one of the longer halls with the closet, which brought several cheeky grins to her face, a door swung open. Startled, Carly let out a short, quiet squeak before being pushed to the side by several boys who didn't pay much. Could these men be serious? They were discussion a kidnapping! Now, I think that's a pretty stupid thing to do at an open table in a saloon where anyone could overhear. Therefore, I listened closely. The three were talking of hitting an outlying ranch and kidnapping the eldest son, about thirteen years old, of a rich rancher. They thought they could easily get $15,000 from the rancher for the return of his son and heir. I thought that was way too much, but I already said that they were stupid.. . talk,? he says as he invites himself in. I guess I should have blocked the door. Too late. Now I am going to have to talk to him.?Talk? About what?? I glance at the door and see him closing it behind him. I suddenly feel very uncomfortable, claustrophobic even. He takes a step closer and I can smell the alcohol on his breath.?Brian I’ve stopped drinking. You know, it was just too much for me,? I start, just wanting to tell him to go away.?Really? That’s okay I guess. You don’t need to be. However, it wasn’t the bright colours that had her entranced, but the glowing sphere of hexagons in the centre of the room.Is this it? The Kyth’faren archive? she asked reverently, taking a faltering step forward.John nodded. Yes, according to Rahn.The Maliri archaeologist held out her hand towards the polygonal shape, then glanced back at John for confirmation. Is it alright to touch it?He hesitated, then strode over to her side. Let me try first, just to make sure it’s safe.Tashana moved.