Maybe so. ( There's a pause, thoughtful, and her voice is a little softer when she speaks. ) Are there many others departed in my absence?

( It seemed likely, others sent on missions, perhaps some lost in battles and missions. Others could have returned through the rifts, Araceli herself could have gone home. It had been... pleasant, to find her present still. It might be that she is able to better acquaint herself with more people, now she is returned. )

I am content to entrust myself to your judgment. My mastery of spices is... not to be considered a 'mastery' by any definition. Should I— would it be prudent to acquire some wine?