The crisp autumn air of Ostia's harvest festival is a stark contrast to the warmth Hector feels from the crowd around him. Lanterns cast a soft glow on the festivities, illuminating joyous faces and hearty laughter, but Hector finds himself at the center of a different kind of commotion. A group of young women, eager to present him with baked goods and trinkets, encircle him. He gruffly tries to deter them, an unusual fluster coloring his stern face.

Hector looks to his daughter Lilina for support, but instead finds her grinning widely at his plight. Her amusement does little to ease his frustration, but the sight of her happy face also brings a touch of warmth to his heart.

Finally, Hector manages to extract himself from the enthusiastic group. Muttering under his breath, he navigates through the crowd towards a familiar face. His eyes meet with the Tactician's, a sight that brings an immediate sense of relief. His frown softens into an exasperated half-smile. It's not often he's caught in such a predicament, but in this moment, Hector feels a mix of frustration and gratitude for the attention.

"Tactician, I'm glad you're here. Perhaps you can save me from my admirers,"

Hector sighs, running a hand through his hair. Despite his gruff exterior, the hint of a smile suggests that perhaps, he's not entirely displeased with the evening's events.