The Burrklau officials stopped at an inn to rest for the night, to prepare for the ship ride back home. Despite being shaken up by the events in the meeting hall, Jovri was now so terribly exhausted he might be able to finally sleep again. All this traveling for nothing.
They ordered supper at the inn, with Jovri sitting with the back of his chair rubbing against wall so no one can sneak up behind, while the officials sat around the table positioned to try to block any bullets or knives that may come from the side. Invading personal space, much to the Sigikel's discomfort. Jovri lacked an appetite, but he barely ate during his travel to Steelburg, so he reluctantly shoveled salmon into his maw.
He and his officials continued to talk quietly in their native tongue, not wanting to draw much attention.
"So you wish to leave the union," Adari asked the young Sigikel.
Jovri sighed. "I respect aunt Olohi's decision. Kingada cradles her soul, but I fear she made a mistake with trusting Merukeli. The other nations are fine, as far as I am aware."
"Why Merukeli?"
Jovri huffed as he took another bite of his salmon. "... I am almost certain what happened there was a set up by the... Baisharrvikel."
Everyone at the table blinked in surprise, aside from the crane, who nodded his head silently.
Jovri continued eating as the group went silent for a while.