As soon as they set foot on Varem, the familiar scent of salt and damp wood welcomed them back, but the air carried an unexpected weight. Two figures arrived waiting just beyond the docks, a man and a woman. Their stance was neutral, but Arthur needed only a glance to see the way magicules stirred subtly around them, betraying their nature.
Mages.
"Come with us." The woman said, her voice polite but firm. "It will be easier that way."
The man crossed his arms. "If you refuse, we will use force."
Arthur's expression remained unreadable, but his fingers twitched, forming the briefest of gestures at his side. A sign. Subtle, almost imperceptible. Aleks caught it immediately.
Without hesitation, he waved a discreet spell, casting a Hush spell over them both. The air around them thickened slightly, muting their voices from unwanted ears.
They exchanged a glance, then, without resistance, began following.
