[ It's no surprise that bringing this conversation to the facts of their situation rather than the emotions tied up in it is going to do a world of good for Urianger right now. That's certainly part of the reason that Thancred brought this up, but he also genuinely wants to get to the bottom of what's going on here.

Especially if there's a chance it might get worse.

At that question, Thancred thinks back. Himeka's tracking of the Xaela woman as she tainted the land's aether had taken place while he was either adrift in the Lifestream or expelled in the Dravanian Forelands, left to survive in the wilds. While he'd heard some of it after the fact, he suspects that Urianger had peppered her with far more questions than he did. ] I have a vague recollection, yes, though I would hardly refuse a refresher.

[ The drinks arrive then and he's quick to pick up his pint and takes a long swig from it, letting out a relieved exhale afterward. ]

I can't say for certain. [ Here, he leans in and lowers his voice. ] We know Himeka and her friends in Solvunn made a sacrifice to try and earn the attention of the old gods. [ Could they be considered responsible for this, or is there something deeper going on? It's difficult to say.

He rolls his eyes at Urianger's self-deprecating statement. ] Oh, come off it. You've only been gone a few days.