After near defeat at the hands of another demon, the Protectors of the Pass were spirited away to a meeting with the headmaster of the Lyceum, Simeon Gohanach. On their way, Crystin shared another one of her visions - she saw an "eagle in chains" among the refugee camps. Offering her goodbyes, she gave Jack a magical cloak, and left the party to set out on her own.
Arriving at the headmaster's office, the elderly human Divination mage asked for Funzbar's book. Paranoid from recent events, the Protectors asked for Simeon to prove there were no tricks about. Turning to Rayland, he shared that he knew of Ming's second shop and what lies beneath, and also what the "Red" stands for. Rayland confirmed this was in fact Simeon, and Bryn handed over the book.
Quickly looking over the book, Simeon was able to decipher a small amount - the book was likely written by Kreven, the second in command of the Ragesian Inquisitors. It was further read and approved of by an individual who couldn't be affected by Divination magic. The book also revealed that The Scourge might have a second purpose, or a second meaning. There was also expressed interest in "Trilla". This sparked recognition with Simeon - Trilla was the name of a young gold dragon that was captured by Dracus Coaltongue before he became the emperor.
Wrapping up their meeting, Simeon shared that there would be a council meeting in two days, and strongly requested the Protectors attend. Asking Diashan to stay back for more questioning, the party left the tower to explore Seaquen.
As they walked the streets, the party heard the news from a town crier - "4th Ragesian army attacks Shahalesti around northern edge of Otdar mountains! Caravans disappearing in swamp, adventurers requested to clear path for supplies! Investigators wanted for arson, come to the Magistrate's office! Open auditions for the Wayfarers continue tomorrow midday!"
Discovering they had more time to rehearse, Winry and Jack gathered the supplies they needed for their performance and spent a few hours practicing. Meanwhile, the remaining members looked into the arson investigation. Following some rat tracks from one of the burned buildings led Rayland, Bryn, and Myetharia to an undamaged house build upon a basement. Deciding they would scope the house, the group reconvened and made plans for investigating further under the cover of night.