[[Ellette|Ellette]] stood in the garden, watching Jess tend to the flowers with Erin. The morning sun bathed the courtyard in a warm glow, the scent of fresh earth and blooming plants filling the air. “Jess,” [[Ellette|Ellette]] said softly, approaching her. “Can we talk?” Jess looked up, brushing dirt from her polka-dot dress. “Of course. What’s on your mind?” [[Ellette|Ellette]] hesitated for a moment, her gaze drifting to the children playing in the distance. “The kids. They mean a lot to us. You’ve done so much for them, more than we could have hoped for. I just...” She paused, her voice wavering slightly. “I want you to know that no matter what happens, Sordia Vignti will always come back. This is home.” Jess’s eyes softened. “I know. And these kids? They’re my family now too. You go do what you need to do, [[Ellette|Ellette]]. We’ll keep the home fires burning.” The two shared a quiet smile, the unspoken bond between them solidified. The journey to Alexandria was uneventful, the cart creaking gently under the weight of their supplies. As they passed familiar fields, the party waved to Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert, the friendly farming couple who always had a kind word and a wave for travellers. Once in Alexandria, they made their way to Quincy’s tavern, the Lucky Griffon. The familiar warmth of the place welcomed them, the scent of roasted meats and ale filling the air. Quincy greeted them with his usual hearty laugh. “Sordia Vignti! Back in one piece, I see. What’ll it be?” [[Qwimby|Qwimby]] grinned. “Just here for the company today, Quincy. Maybe a round of your finest ale.” As they caught up, the group shared tales of their recent escapades, their laughter echoing through the tavern. It wasn’t long before they made their way to the guild, where Ezra greeted them with a nod. “Good to see you all. Things have been quiet, but we’ve got our eyes open,” she said, scanning the party. “Anything brewing on your end?” [[Ellette|Ellette]] shook her head. “Not yet, but you’ll be the first to know if there is.” As they strolled through the market, their attention was drawn to Vista’s Trinkets, a vibrant stall adorned with colourful fabrics and an assortment of oddities. Vista, the flamboyant merchant, was hurriedly packing his wares, his usual bravado replaced by nervous energy. “Vista,” [[Qwimby|Qwimby]] called, approaching the stall. “What’s the rush?” Vista glanced up, his painted face pale. “Ah, my dear [[Qwimby|Qwimby]]! Just... relocating. Business has been... challenging.” [[Qwimby|Qwimby]] raised an eyebrow. “You’re running. Spill it.” With a resigned sigh, Vista leaned in. “An old contact from Kalteo found me. I owe... significant debts to some less-than-savory individuals. They’re not far behind, and I’d rather not stick around to find out how persuasive they can be.” [[Qwimby|Qwimby]] frowned, his mind racing. “We’ll look into it. Just stay out of sight for now.” As they left Alexandria, the group discussed their next steps. “Should we really be getting involved with Vista’s mess?” [[Ellette|Ellette]] asked, her tone skeptical. “We don’t have to,” [[Qwimby|Qwimby]] replied. “But it’s worth knowing who’s tracking him. Could be someone we don’t want sniffing around.” [[Morgar Goldgard|Morgar]] nodded. “Knowledge is power. Better to know our enemies before they know us.” [[Zara Blackwood|Zara]] chimed in, her voice light. “And maybe Vista owes us a favor or two if we help him out. Could come in handy.” The conversation drifted to lighter topics as they neared the keep, the camaraderie between them easing the weight of the day. As the keep came into view, the group slowed. Parked outside were several caravans and horse-drawn carts, their ornate designs unlike anything they’d seen before. People in vibrant, unfamiliar clothing moved about, their voices carrying a melodic cadence. “Who are they?” [[Karrut Styk|Karrut]] murmured, his brow furrowed. [[Ellette|Ellette]] dismounted, her hand instinctively moving to her blade. “Let’s find out.” The party approached cautiously, their eyes scanning the scene. One of the visitors noticed them and stepped forward, a tall figure with elaborate embroidery on their robes and a welcoming smile. “Greetings,” they said, their accent lilting. “We’ve travelled far and seek rest. Might we speak with the masters of this keep?” [[Qwimby|Qwimby]] glanced at [[Ellette|Ellette]]. “Looks like that’s us.” [[Chapter 54. Gifts and Visitors]]