I think you're right. First time is at Dire's castle, second is defending the city, and third is outside the shop.
Originally Posted by Anteros
I'm sorry, I wasn't clear. I was talking about from Ardon's perspective.
I could easily have forgotten something, but wasn't it the tower first, then outside the shop, and wasn't that all so far? Wouldn't meeting the guardian protecting the city be the third time, assuming it happens? (It hasn't happened yet.)