The next morning, Vuvi and Veena finish up a discussion with Kathoril regarding the Flame Mother quest, pinning down the location of her temple, buried deep within the Fire Mountains flanking the kingdom's western border.
With the planning done, they head into town to check on progress at the pleasure house.
The walk there is its own kind of chaos, strangers greeting them at every corner, showering both of them with compliments and well-wishes like they're passing celebrities.
Veena laughs softly partway through, shaking her head. "It's still so strange, getting swarmed with this much love from total strangers. I spent ten years hiding who I really am. Now people cheer just because I exist in their vicinity."
Vuvi loops an arm around her in a quick side-hug. "That's just how it goes in our little family. Pip's a walking miracle, and we're the ones looking after him, guiding him. Some recognition is expected. Deserved, even."
