**To Sordia Vignti,** I am submitting this as an internal report, rather than a formal request, as the matter concerns Alexandria directly and falls within the scope of what you have charged me to monitor. Over the past six weeks, trade along the eastern roadways has become increasingly unstable. At first, the pattern suggested common banditry. That conclusion no longer holds. Caravans have been struck where interception is difficult but not impossible. Coin is frequently left behind. Entire shipments go untouched except for specific crates. More concerning still, individuals have been taken rather than goods — scribes, hedge mages, itinerant priests, and others whose only commonality is knowledge. In three confirmed cases, bodies were later discovered miles from the sites of attack. They were not left as warnings. They were arranged. Certain organs had been removed with surgical precision. Residual magic was present, but inconsistent, layered, and deliberately obscured. Local patrols have identified what they believe to be a bandit camp operating from a ridgeline near the old quarry road. Under normal circumstances, I would not trouble you with a matter of roadside raiders. However, recovered fragments from a disrupted caravan included embalming salts, alchemical preservatives, and instruments better suited to an operating chamber than a robbery. Whatever this camp truly is, it is not sustained by theft. I have not yet involved Alexandria’s wider council or standing forces. The pattern is specific, controlled, and — if my judgement is correct — deliberately quiet. I believe this warrants investigation by those who can operate without drawing unnecessary attention and who understand what such signs have meant for us in the past. I recommend Sordia Vignti personally investigate the camp, determine the nature of its operations, and dismantle it if a deeper threat is confirmed. Any records, artefacts, or personnel recovered should be secured and returned. I will take responsibility for their containment and examination. I am available to provide everything we have gathered thus far. This does not feel like chance. And it does not feel finished. **— Isolde** _Arcane Advisor to Sordia Vignti, Alexandria_