Nymous leaned back in his chair, contemplating the words of Jerich. "It's clear that the Auspex's Library does not contain the answers we seek," he said, breaking the silence. "Staying here won't get us closer to the truth."

Walther nodded, his eyes tired but determined. "We must go to Vostralis. It's the only place where we can find the expertise, and by that I do not mean written texts. There are people there who might have seen such an obscure patchwork before, and more importantly, know what to do with it."

Basil, though hesitant, understood the the situation. "My uncles reside in Vostralis. They have access to the Cosmic Rule Court. It has been 13 years since I've last seen them, but I know they will welcome us!"

Samuel, who had been listening quietly, added, "Maybe, Basil, but the Cosmic Rule Court has fallen into despondency for a long time now, remember that. There's also the constraints workshop near Vostralis. I've heard they specialize in ancient artifacts and patchworks. They might be able to deduct some things about this specific patch."

Nymous frowned deeply, his usual calm demeanor replaced by visible discomfort. "Vostralis is a bad place," he said, his voice low and firm. "The journey there has not been safe for three solid years. Bandits and worse haunt the roads, and the city itself is no haven. It's a place of iron and blood, not one for finding help or wisdom."

Walther bristled at Nymous's objection. "We have no choice, Nymous. It's our only lead. We can't afford to ignore this opportunity because of fear. The Auspex's library is of no further use to us. "

Nymous's eyes narrowed. "It's not about fear, Walther. It's about not dying. I've been through those lands. I know what dangers await. You're risking more than you realize."

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The tension in the room rose as the two men glared at each other, their disagreement growing more heated by the moment.

"You think I'm unaware of the risks?" Walther shot back. "Everything holds danger, but we can't let that paralyze us. We need answers, and Vostralis is our best chance."

Nymous stood, his expression darkening. "You're willing to risk all our lives for a chance? We could find another way, another place. Vostralis is not the answer."

Basil, sensing the need to mediate, stepped between them. "Enough, both of you. We know there's risks, but we also know what's at stake. This patchwork holds too many secrets, and we can't ignore the possibility that Vostralis has the answers we seek."

Walther and Nymous continued to exchange tense looks, but Basil's words seemed to cool their tempers slightly.

Samuel, always the peacemaker, added softly, "Maybe we can find a way to make the journey safer. We could travel quietly, though granted, I'm not much of a silent man myself."

Nymous sighed, rubbing his temples. "If we must go to Vostralis, then so be it. But mark my words, this will be the most perilous path you have travelled in your lives of luxury so far. Do not linger, do not stray, stay close and ever vigilant. Many things have changed the past years, it will not be like you remembered before."

Basil nodded. "Then it's settled. We'll depart as soon as we can."

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The following morning, preparations began in earnest. Basil found himself organizing supplies with a mixture of anxiety and determination. He packed clothes, food, and essentials while Samuel busied himself in the kitchen of the Auspex's Library, preparing provisions that would last the long journey.

Walther poured over maps, charting the safest routes and marking potential hazards. "We'll take the old trade route," he decided, tracing the path with his finger. "It's less traveled these days, but it avoids the more dangerous Shifting Sands. You never want to travel across the Shifting Sands without the right patchwork with you."

Nymous inspected their gear, ensuring that everything was in good condition. His mind was still troubled by the decision, but he remained focused on their preparations. "We'll need to travel light and fast," he said, testing the tension on his bowstring. "Speed will be our ally."

As the sun climbed higher, the group gathered outside the library. Jerich watched them from the doorway, his expression one of quiet concern. "May the wisdom of ages guide you," he said, offering a blessing of sorts. "And may you find the answers you seek."

Basil looked back at the elder, "Thank you, Jerich. We will try to figure this patchwork out."

With everything packed and ready, the company set off. The road ahead was long.