All sat quietly around a fire pit. They had a vague plan, but the question remained, where were the seven sages?
Were they supposed to roam around aimlessly? Where could they find people who knew about their existence?
Karki broke the silence. "Let us start with Ang."
Ang was the ancient country ruled by the King Vali's descendents. King Vali was rumoured to have been an the son of Monkey god, most likely a divine creature of Svarka, and a human damsel, one of the oldest created species, resulting in modern day large boned strong humans. Called the Vanars, they seldom took up magic, but instead were specialised in weaponry of any sort. All kindoms feared the Vanars, who were often successful soldiers and army generals. They were a bit quick to anger, but equally easy to appease.
Akira looked surprised at the strange choice of land. "Ang people are considered quite aggressive. Don't you think it's better to start of with a safer place? I remember going there when I was about fifty years old.. and it has been over hundred years since I disappeared, people wont recognize me, I do not have the influence I once had.."
Karki shook his head."Ang has the oldest temple on Gaya. The temple of Hotrā. They worship fire, since fire is used to craft all weapons there. It is the source of life and livelyhood. I am sure this would be an apt place to bump into our sage of the fire clan."
Akira nodded her head. Yes, that made sense.
Karki smiled, his hand gently on Akira's shoulder, a gesture of comfort. "Do not worry. You have been marked, in time of need, you will always find a friend."
Akira did not look so hopeful. Last time, the mark had glowed after she had made peace with her source of threat.
Iki decided to speak,"That is true, don't rely too much on the mark, you need to be smart."
She made a wry face. "Thanks Iki. I appreciate the confidence you have on the mark."
She heard Iki chuckle.
Tara, who had been quiet for a while, interrupted, "How many races are there amongst humans?"
Akira was surprised by the question. "Hmm.. let's see... we have the Jambas, who are proud descendent of the King Jambavan, or the bearmen race as we call them. They are slow, and peaceful, prefer not to interfere with other race politics, and normally spend time in merriment. They are tradesmen by nature, and skilled in the fine arts.
Then we have the Vanars, descendent of King Vali, or the monkeymen race. They are aggressive, quick to anger, and hold grudges. They are good friends, and nightmares for enemies.
We have the Manus, descendent of King Manu, or the man race like me. Most Manus prefer magic, and are skilled mages. Weaker than the other human races, they do not involve themselves in weaponry or physical fights.
The Jatas, decendent of the Eagle lord Jatayu, who are known to be sharp eyed but extremely honest. They are normally strategists, inventors and guild masters. Money does not tempt them, but satisfaction of achieving the impossible does. Most are in education or advisory fields. It would not be a surprise if most sages are either a Jata or a Manus."
Tara nodded. This realm of human was indeed fascinating.
Karki continued, "And then you have the last, hidden race, the Dragon Blood, from the line of Prince Ila or Princess Ilā, the Moon dynasty, a race of myths and legends till date."