**Reunited and Redirected**

As they approached the shelter, Eira's excitement grew, and she quickened her pace, her eyes scanning the surroundings for a glimpse of her cousin. The shelter came into view, and Eira spotted Althaea tending to a wounded traveler. Eira's face lit up with a warm smile as she rushed towards her cousin, embracing her in a tight hug. Althaea laughed, returning the hug. "Eira, it's been ages! I was starting to think I'd never see you again." As they pulled back, Althaea's eyes widened in surprise. "And you've brought a whole group of people with you! Who are they?" Eira introduced her companions, and Althaea's eyes landed on Elwynn, who stepped forward with a keen interest. "Althaea, I've been searching for you. I've heard you're quite skilled in the art of potion-making." Althaea's face lit up with pride. "I do my best. What kind of potions are you looking for?" Elwynn explained their quest and the challenges they faced, and Althaea listened intently, her brow furrowed in thought. "I'm familiar with a few potions that might aid you," Althaea said, "but I'll need some time to gather the necessary ingredients and brew them. What kind of timeline are we looking at?" As Elwynn and Althaea discussed the details, Kael, Lyra, and Thrain wandered over to a nearby bench, engaging in a conversation of their own. "Thrain, we couldn't help but overhear that you have a connection to Oakwood," Kael said. "We're actually heading in that direction. We've been dealing with goblin and troll problems in the area." Thrain's expression turned serious. "I'm not surprised to hear that. As a matter of fact, I'm a knight, sworn to protect the realm. I must report the bandits and the state of the ruin in Oakwood to the capital. It's my duty to inform the authorities and request aid." Lyra's eyes sparkled with interest. "A knight, you say? We might be able to help you with that. We've been thinking of heading in the direction of the capital anyway, to find answers about these strange bandits." Thrain's eyes narrowed. "I've been thinking the same. Their behavior seemed... off. Almost as if they were being controlled or manipulated by some external force." The group gathered around, discussing the strange occurrences and their plans to head towards the capital. Eira turned to her cousin. "Althaea, we'll need to gather information and resources on our way. Can you prepare some potions for us to take with us?" Althaea nodded, a determined look on her face. "I'll get to work right away. I'll have some potions ready for you by the time you're ready to leave." As the group made their plans, Eira couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and trepidation. What lay ahead in the capital, and what secrets would they uncover about the mysterious bandits and the ruin state of Oakwood?