“I see.” Vesta’s voice is flat. “Two months.”

Her expression remains unreadable, though she gives a slight nod as the words settle over her. She falls silent, lost in thought for a long moment, before giving Jade’s hand one final squeeze and gently letting go.

“I’m going to the vardo.” She glances toward the city gates. “You’re welcome to come with me, or look into Zukar first. Whatever you’d prefer.”

She turns toward the gates once more, only to pause and look back at Saige and Storm. A deep, weary sigh escapes her.

“I’m sorry. I’m not in a particularly sociable mood today.”

Her gaze shifts from Storm to Saige, and her brow creases faintly.

“Perhaps we can… catch up later.” She hesitates, looking as though she isn’t entirely sure why she offered. “Or something.”

With that, she takes a few steps towards the gate before stopping to wait, glancing back to see whether Jade will follow.

Beside Storm, Saige continues to pout, tugging her hood a little tighter around her head as she studies the Ramtovi woman. Her head tilts to one side, and her brow furrows.

After a moment, she looks down at her hands. She glances up at Storm, still frowning, before leaning towards her to whisper something else. Her fingers catch on the draconian’s sleeve, giving it a small, insistent tug.

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