Part 1

Syndra had heard of Sirene's death during the civil war, but couldn't stop to acknowledge it. Now that it was all over though, she told General Ryul she'd be spending a few days in Isca in the Dragontail Mountains, to reflect on Sirene's life. She broke under the pressure and allowed him to send a pair of rangers with her, because she was already becoming too widely known. Even so, she went in her travelling gear.

"So, you actually met Sirene?" Ranger Cithrel asked Syndra as they walked through Dragonbone Pass.

"Several times over my life. We always fought when we met, but I respected her." Syndra answered.

"You did?" Cithrel asked.

"If I didn't, we wouldn't be doing this, idiot." Syndra said, smacking the back of her head. "Yes she was a violent maniac, but she never tried to hide that fact. Never trying to hide your true self is a trait most people don't have."

Cithrel quietly thought about what Syndra said as they drew closer to Isca. Never trying to hide your true self? Who was Syndra talking about? When they reached Isca, it was dusk, and so Syndra opted for the 3 of them to go to the Inn for the night. When Syndra entered, Vaust looked up and winked at Syndra, before gesturing toward an empty spot at the bar.

"The Innkeeper wants something. Let's go." Syndra said to the Rangers, who nodded and followed her, taking up position on either side of her as they sat.

"Haven't gotten much royalty here before." Vaust said with a smile, his voice barely a whisper. "So, what's the occasion?"

"Nosy aren't you?" Syndra asked, frowning.

"It's why I'm the Innkeeper." Vaust responded, smiling.

"Just some food and drinks, thank you." Cithrel interrupted, before Syndra could get even more testy.

Syndra shot a withering glare at Cithrel, but said no more. Vaust smirked for a moment, then disappeared into his kitchen.