As they continued their stroll towards the next shop, Amukelo, intrigued by their earlier conversation, queried further about magic, "So, how does one start training in magic? I've never tried it before, so I know nothing about that."
Pao explained, "First, you need to become aware of your mana. Everyone has it, but not everyone can access it initially. You need to learn how to release and control it. The size of one's mana reserves varies greatly from person to person. Some people might have vast reserves naturally, and for others, these reserves might increase with age or through specific training."
Amukelo nodded thoughtfully, his interest piqued, "That sounds like something worth exploring."
Noticing his genuine curiosity, Pao's cheeks tinted with a slight blush as she offered, "If you want, I could help you with that."
"Seriously? That would be amazing, thank you, Pao. You're the best," Amukelo responded enthusiastically, his own cheeks coloring slightly as their eyes met.
Their conversation was briefly interrupted as they arrived at their next stop. They entered a quaint shop specializing in magical texts and scrolls. Inside, Pao browsed through various grimoires, her eyes lighting up with each title she recognized.
After purchasing the grimoires, they moved on to their final destination for the day. As they approached, Pao turned to Amukelo with a playful glint in her eyes, "For this next shop, I'll really need your help."
Curious, Amukelo followed her into the store, which was filled with an assortment of mage attire. The store itself was a cavern of wonders, with garments that shimmered with enchantment hanging from racks and stands. Velvet robes with arcane symbols stitched along the hems, cloaks lined with celestial patterns, and tunics adorned with protective runes all promised magical enhancements or protections.
Pao led him to a section with an array of women's mage wear. "I want your opinion on these," she said, pointing to several outfits.
The first was a regal gown with a high collar and structured shoulder pauldrons. The second ensemble was a flowing robe with detailed trim and a high-collared cape that spoke of wisdom and authority. The third option was a practical tunic set with fitted sleeves and a broad belt, paired with sturdy boots.
As they stood among the racks of mage attire, Pao turned to Amukelo, her expression a mix of excitement and anticipation, "I want to hear what you think. Which of these do you think suits me best?"
Amukelo hesitated, his eyes darting between the elegant ensembles as he weighed the merits of each. Pao's gentle prodding clearly indicated she wanted his input, not just a practical assessment. "Isn't it just about the best attributes?" he mumbled, somewhat overwhelmed by the array of choices and Pao's expectant gaze.
"These all look amazing, but they're quite standard in terms of magical properties," Pao explained, her voice soft but instructive, sensing his struggle. "They're essentially blank canvases, waiting to be enhanced with runes and enchantments."
Amukelo took a deep breath, trying to envision Pao in each outfit not just as garments but as part of her mage persona. His gaze settled back on the practical tunic with the sturdy boots. "I think you should choose what makes you feel confident and ready for anything," he suggested earnestly. "This one," he pointed to the tunic ensemble, "seems like it would be really practical for our adventures. It's not just about looking good, but being prepared."
Pao raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing on her lips at his earnestness. "So, you think this one?" she asked, her hand brushing the fabric of the tunic.
"Yes," Amukelo nodded, more sure of himself now. "It looks durable and comfortable for all kinds of situations. Plus, the boots look like they can handle any terrain."
Pleased with his reasoning, Pao agreed and took the outfit to try it on. Moments later, she emerged from the changing room transformed. The tunic hugged her form perfectly, accentuating her slender frame, while the boots added a rugged charm to her overall appearance.
"How do I look?" she asked, twirling a little to give him the full effect.
Amukelo's eyes widened slightly. "You look... great," he said while looking to the side.
Satisfied with his reaction, Pao changed back into her summer dress, purchased the outfit, and then turned to him with a practical tone. "It's getting late, we should grab something to eat," she suggested.
"Right," Amukelo agreed, eager to shift the focus from his flustered responses. "I know a good place."
Leading the way, Amukelo took Pao to the modest yet charming restaurant Bral and Idin had recommended. As they walked, the streets of Llyn transitioned from the bustling activity of the day to the serene ambiance of the evening, with lanterns casting a soft glow on the cobblestone paths, enhancing the magical feel of their outing.
As they entered the restaurant it looked slightly different from what Amukelo had seen from outside. It was more extravagant than he remembered. The restaurant was elegantly adorned with low-hanging chandeliers and tables dressed in fine linen. The soft hum of conversation filled the air, mingled with the gentle clinking of cutlery and glassware. The space was lit by warm, golden lights that cast a cozy glow over the patrons, many of whom appeared to be from the higher echelons of Llyn society. Amukelo, in his finely tailored jacket, blended in more seamlessly than he expected, whereas Pao, in her simple summer dress, felt a bit out of place despite her natural grace.
They followed the waiter through the bustling establishment to a small table set apart in a quieter corner, offering a bit of privacy amidst the crowded venue. The menu they were handed was extensive, featuring an array of dishes.
As they browsed the menu, Amukelo could sense Pao's discomfort, mirroring his own unease in such a refined setting. "I didn't expect it to be this fancy," Amukelo whispered, leaning closer to Pao, trying to make light of the situation.
Pao gave a small, nervous laugh in response, "So why did you choose this place?"
Amukelo paused for a moment and said with an awkward laugh, "Bral and Idin recommend me this place." Hearing their names, Pao had a slightly irritated look on her face.
When the waiter returned to take their order, they decided on a modest meal, trying not to go with something overcomplicated. Amukelo ordered a dish of roasted fowl, while Pao chose a light fish entree, and they agreed on a bottle of white wine to complement their meals.
"Your food will be ready shortly," the waiter announced with a professional smile. "And just to let you know, we're offering a discount this week for young couples. It's a pleasure to see such lovely pairs enjoying their evening with us."
Pao's face flushed a deep shade of red at the mention of 'couples,' and she stuttered slightly, "C-couples?" Her voice was a mix of surprise and embarrassment.
Amukelo chuckled softly at her reaction, amused by how flustered she seemed. "Looks like we got a discount," he joked, trying to ease her discomfort.
The waiter, sensing the awkward moment he might have sparked, quickly added, "I'll leave you two to enjoy your evening," before gracefully retreating to attend to other guests.