Those pleasing pink eyes had turned from him, easily disappointed. Either she was a woman familiar with having it her way or never getting her way had taken a toll on her patience.

When those eyes met Abel's again her annoyance was obvious to him. The fuse of her temper would burn through quickly indeed, or so he had surmised. An explanation might curb her anger before it escalated. After all, he was a caravaneer turning down a passenger. His angle would require a rather lengthy confession however and - especially for someone unwilling to share even their name - it wasn't his nature to tell all.

"My business in Raiaera was sorely neglected while I've been mentoring my protégé. Complications have arisen in the meantime that I can no longer ignore," Abel began, forming sentences that sounded suspiciously like an excuse, to his displeasure. All the manners and etiquette available to him and the correct words eluded him all the same. He tsked himself and thought how it was best that he put this.

"I would prefer to bring her with me. Regrettably Raiaera would not welcome her so she cannot stay with my caravan. For her safety our paths must diverge and we will meet again in the future," the traveller revealed. Abel's gaze reviewed his employees, and found some of them restless, itching to leave. He nodded understandingly in their direction and held up a single digit gesture which indicated one minute left.

"This morning I've been considering who I might leave behind to remain with her. Truthfully though she is her own woman and I cannot spare a man. I will need to recruit again shortly once I have a fifth wagon..." Abel droned, catching himself, "Matters irrelevant to you of course, madame. Though I believe you understand my predicament."

"Akashima would be a worthy experience for her and she could see you arrived there safely," the Salvaran affirmed. Momentarily his attention deviated from the lady he knew not. He held out a straight-arrow arm to direct the convoy where to go, making a sweeping motion with his other arm signalling it was time to move. From flicks of reins to shouts of 'Ha!' depending on the temperament of their horses, they were able to begin walking at a slow pace. The first wagon rolled on by as Abel returned his full focus to the icy woman scrutinizing him.

"I believe she's saddling her mount in the stables as we speak. I would be happy to arrange a steed for you as well, if you wish it," he suggested, meeting the mystery woman's glare with a curious, examining look. Would she set her annoyance aside and take him up on the offer? Would she grow irritated with his long-winded disclosure? Would she have questions of her own? The second wagon was about to go past them.