Jinnaari swung his sword, pulling the blow at the last moment. The purpose of sparring with new recruits was to teach them, not bludgeon them to death.

“Althir!” the lieutenant’s voice cut through the din of the practice arena.

Jinnaari raised his head, his tail moving slightly.

“Commander wants to see you.”

Nodding, he left the arena. He paused at the weapons rack, putting the wooden sword and practice shield away before strapping his personal sword around his waist. Adjusting his cloak to make sure the symbol of Bahamut was visible. As a paladin, it was a matter of pride that his faith was where all could see it.

He strode through the compound to the commander’s office. He knocked on the door once and waited.

“Enter,” a deep voice responded.

Jinnaari opened the door. “You wanted to see me?”

“Althir. Yes. Close the door and take a seat.” The commander, another Dragonborn, shuffled through a small pile of parchment while Jinnaari settled onto the backless seat.

“I got a missive today from a colleague connected to the Paladins of Torm. Seems one of their clerics was out adventuring and their group stumbled onto something rather sinister. They were overpowered in the lost city of Omu, and lost a party member. The cleric’s faith has been tested, and another has been found to take her place. I’d like to send you to make sure the task they’re on succeeds.” The older Dragonborn leaned forward.

“What are they searching for?”

“A cure to the death curse that’s befallen the world.”

Jinnaari let out a low whistle. “A worthy and noble endeavor. Omu’s over in Cthult, though. And the way to it is long forgotten. How am I to get there? Or know who to look for?”

“The cleric provided for that. Here,” he handed a couple of pages over to Jinnaari, “are detailed descriptions of the rest of the party. The ones she knew would be together, at least. One is still lost, and they don’t know if he’ll return. Study those, and gather your gear. The portal will be cast within an hour.”

His eyes widened in surprise. “You’re sending me via teleport? Is this mission that urgent?”

The commander’s gaze locked with Jinnaari’s. “It’s the most urgent thing happening in the world right now.”