The trek to Elendel is a speedy process. A load that would stagger most men merits only a moderate exertion on Cart's part, so you progress quickly, turning up dust on the back roads and then clattering merrily along on the main road leading to the city. Several patrols of guardsmen roam the countryside, lance tips and armor gleaming. They don't pay you and Cart any notice, clearly mistaking you for a simple merchant and her overgrown manservant, but it seems that the governor has finally decided to reassert his control over his domain.
This explains the flurry of activity you see upon reaching the bandit camp. People everywhere are stowing tent canvases, packing carts, and mounting horses. Veronica is in the middle of it all barking orders while Issac meekly follows behind, taking notes and trying not to get stepped on.
"We're moving north," The salamander captain informs you brusquely. "Nearer to the forest, where those pansies on horses won't dare try to follow. If you need us, we'll be there."
Upon reaching the region's capitol, the smell of smoke fills your nostrils and sharp cracks ring out upon the air. At first you suspect some sort of violence, but once you are let through the gate, the exact opposite becomes apparent.
A festival of some sort is taking place in the streets. Partygoers roam the slums clad in masks, watching parades of musicians, and setting of fireworks at frequent intervals. The wild abandon is a stark contrast to the normally dismal atmosphere of the lower quarter, but then a day off of work and cheap alcohol is a recipe to make anyone happy.
The throngs of people clog the streets so badly that it takes awhile navigating alleyways and side streets to finally reach the mid-level merchant district where Siara's shop is located. The half-elf's shop has a closed sign in the window and it takes several minutes of repeated knocking for her to emerge.
...Stunning is the only word that comes to mind as you gawk at the storekeeper in her finery. Her platinum hair is in an elegant up-do and contrasts brilliantly with the obsidian encrusted mask that does little to hide her exotic features. Her hips sway in a in a tight, shimmering, low-cut black gown, complete with a open back and a highly provocative slit that allow its owner equal parts mobility and mouth watering display of her long, perfect legs. Siara smiles at you and Cart and opens the door wide.
"That's the product I assume?" She asks, nodding at the cart. "I'd prefer a little advanced warning, but I guess there's no time like the present. Let's get them into the back room, quickly now."
Soon the milk is stowed in a cunningly concealed compartment, chilled with several blocks of ice. She leads you back to the counter and makes a show of bending over to fiddle with her safe. Cart lets out a little whine only you can hear and fidgets at your side. How the elfin woman can bend over in those heals is anyone's guess, but it certainly results in an attractive sight!
The pleasant jangle of coin clinks as Siara gives you the remainder of your payment.
"Three thousand crowns, as promised. I must say, I'm eager to start peddling this new product. If it's as strong as you say... You'll be making a lot of spoiled nobles happy tonight, my dear."