“What is this place?” Chris asked. “Does it have food? I’m famished.”

Elsh laughed as she hugged Marli, then turned to respond. “This is The Fortress of Q’landri, so named by my dear friend Herman, who just happens to be a bit of a D&D geek. It’s really more of a safe haven, a place where we can bunk up for a while until we’ve got a plan.”

Chris paused, and looked at Elsh. “You forgot my second question.”

“There’s a fridge in the galley, down the hall and to the left. Help yourself.”

“Awesome!” Chris bolted down the hallway, suddenly energetic again. Elsh smiled brightly as she and Marli made their way to the conference room. The hatch closed behind them, bolted and sealed itself against outside forces.

“Long time no see, friend.” Elsh said as she and Marli sat across from each other at a large table. “Sorry about the short notice.”

“Aye, no problem mate! Ye know I’m ‘appy to ’elp a friend in need! What sor’ of mess you got yerself into, then?”

Elsh glanced around the room, then began her story…