As the players stepped through the gates of Istarra, a sense of familiarity washed over them.
The streets were lively, filled with both locals and players, their chatter blending with the distant sound of merchants calling out their wares.
The evening light bathed the town in a soft glow, casting long shadows over the cobblestone paths.
For some, returning to Istarra felt like coming home.
For others, it was their first time seeing the place for themselves.
Arlon walked with the group for a while before subtly breaking away into a quiet alleyway.
It was time to switch places.
A faint shimmer surrounded him as his doppelganger took his place.
His real self faded from view, slipping into the shadows while Arlon the Guide emerged from the alley, walking out confidently to rejoin the others.
Of course, the copy also changed his face to become Arlon the player.
None of the players—not even June—noticed the switch.
As far as they were concerned, Arlon had been here all along.
