Lynna knocked lightly on the Mayor's office door. As it creaked open, she once again encountered the familiar chaos. She had grown accustomed to the sight over her various visits, yet every time, she couldn't help but wonder what had happened to his notoriously meticulous wife.
"Lynna, come on in," Mayor Decker said, his voice echoing through the papers and random trinkets that littered his workspace.
"Thank you, Mayor," Lynna replied, navigating through the messy room to find a clear spot to stand, not noticing the silhouette near the window.
Gunthian cleared his throat. "Ahem, regarding our current business, we have a visitor from the capital." With a sweeping gesture, he introduced a striking woman standing by the window. Her raven-black hair flowed down her back, and her piercing blue eyes carefully scanned the room. The finely stitched royal-blue gown she wore hinted at her esteemed position.
"Allow me to introduce Lady Elara, a treasurer from the kingdom. Lynna, I want you to help her while she's here. You can be her local guide and help her with what she needs."
Lynna nodded, calming the nervous feeling in her stomach. She was wary of the kingdom's large institutions. Their strict laws, the impersonal bureaucracy, and the whispers of corruption had always seemed overwhelming. She wanted to stay far from these issues. Meeting someone so central to it all was both an honor and a source of anxiety.
Lady Elara stepped forward, extending her hand with a gentle smile. "A pleasure, Lady Lynna. I've heard this village has its unique charm. I'm eager to experience it under your guidance."
Lynna shook her hand, noting its unexpected warmth. "It's nice to meet you, Lady Elara. I hope the village won't disappoint you."
The mayor chimed in, adding his thoughts. "Our village may not have the grandeur of the capital, but it has its moments."
Lady Elara answered, "The kingdom values its relationships with every corner of the realm. This is a chance for both of us to learn from each other."
Lynna nodded, "I'll do my best to be of assistance."
"We shall discuss the primary purpose of your visit tomorrow, once you've comfortably settled in, dear Lady." The mayor made an uncharacteristic polite low bow.
As the meeting concluded and Lynna accompanied Lady Elara out of the mayor's office, she felt a knot of tension building in her stomach. The investigation on behalf of the Academy of Magic weighed heavily on her mind, and she debated whether or not to share the details with the treasurer.
In front of the Mayor's House, Lynna began hesitantly, mustering her courage, "Lady Elara, there's a matter I've been looking into for the Academy of Magic. Given your experience, I was wondering if you could provide some insight..."
Lady Elara held up a hand, glancing around the busy streets. "Perhaps we should discuss such matters in a more private setting," she suggested gently. "I've been provided a local residence for my stay, along with my followers. We can converse there without prying ears."
Lynna nodded, appreciating the discretion. "Of course, my apologies. Lead the way."
As they exited, Lynna caught sight of Lady Elara's retinue waiting around them — a mix of guards, attendants, and scribes, all attired in the livery of the kingdom. She wondered about the stories and knowledge they carried and hoped this collaboration would prove beneficial.