Follow follow, serenely just like—

—he flinches a bit when he remembers his master, but then calms down again.

It is full dark by now, and there's no one out but the guards as they cross over the bridge. The other side of the city looks much the same. The roads slope slightly upwards, towards a grand structure that seems to be at the highest point. That's where they're going.

...well then. He hopes they're not going to torture him or something.

The room they deposit him in doesn't seem that sort of place. A couple comfortable chairs, a low table surrounded by cushions. One door on the opposite wall, closed.

"You will wait here." His escort withdraws, shutting the door.

...he'll wait, standing.

Eventually, the far door opens. A woman enters and bows slightly. "I greet you, outsider. I am the Mystic Talsa Ko."

He bows slightly, too, then. "I am... unsure whether telling you my name is wise."

She nods to herself. "My people do not wish you harm. Rather, we seek your help."

—okay it is rather hard to surprise him speechless and yet here we are.

"You have come here seeking answers the galaxy has not provided. Our Mystics have seen that in your quest, the answer to the corruption of the Nightmare Lands may be found."

"I... see. Pardon my ignorance but what is the corruption of the Nightmare Lands?"

"To the east is an area of tortured earth and withered vegetation. Any who enter are driven mad. This was once the ancestral homeland of my people, but we were forced to abandon it many thousands of years ago."

"And... I'm gonna help fix that? I do not mean to cast doubt on your Mystics' visions but I don't see what's special about me that I could help with that."

"The Mystics' visions are never in error. The path will become clear. You must face the Trials."

"That sounded like it had a capital 'T'."

"It is the rite of passage for all initiates."

"Oh. I... imagined outsiders wouldn't be allowed to do that."

"The Mystics have spoken. You will be permitted."

He nods. "Thank you very much."

"Before that, however, you must prepare in mind and body. The Trials are death for the unready."

"Okay, so what exactly should I prepare for?"

"You must learn the ways of the Voss. Study with the initiates at the Shrine of Healing."

He nods.

"A transport has been prepared. It waits for you outside."

"I understand. Thank you, again," he says, and if that will be all he... supposes he'll head outside.