The inside of the renovated manor was as impressive as its exterior. High vaulted ceilings, intricately patterned wooden beams, and ornate chandeliers bore testament to the skilled craftsmanship. Despite its opulence, there was a warmth to it, reminding visitors of its humble origins as a farm.
As the retinue began to settle in with more than enough space, Lynna found herself in one of the larger sitting rooms, adorned with plush sofas and an intricately carved wooden table at its center. The soft glow from the hearth painted a cozy ambiance. Lady Elara soon joined her, her elegance standing out even more in the luxurious surroundings.
Recalling Lynna's previous unease, Elara judged it the right time to ask, "You seem quite contemplative, Lynna. Is something troubling you?"
Taking a deep breath, Lynna slowly began recounting the details of her mission and her current dilemma regarding the unusual activities she was to investigate, expressing her uncertainty about what to report back.
Lady Elara leaned back, and gathered her thoughts for some seconds. She then answered: "Growth, especially rapid, is not inherently suspicious. It's not entirely unusual for a village to undergo such a transformation within three years, especially under the right conditions. I'm more concerned about the mysterious creature you defeated in the forest. Have you reported that?"
Lynna nodded. "Yes, I have. And the Academy found it deeply troubling. Maybe that's why they asked me to investigate."
Lady Elara's expression darkened momentarily before she composed herself. But Lynna couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to this than met the eye. What was the deeper reason for the kingdom's involvement? And why was Lady Elara here, in person?
Gathering her courage, she asked, "If the growth of the village isn't the main concern, then why the interest of the kingdom in our small village?"
Elara's lips curled into a smile. "My mission and yours are not the same. The kingdom wishes to evaluate the possibility of upgrading the village's status to that of a town. This involves new prerequisites to be met and new taxation rules to be followed."
Lynna needed some time to process the information but Lady Elara continued: "The unusual growth you're investigating might offer insights valuable for my assessment. In essence, while we both don't have the same goals, we might be looking at the same investigation, but from slightly different perspectives."
Lynna's eyes brightened in realization. "So, our investigations could complement each other?"
"Exactly", Elara nodded. "And I'd be more than willing to share my perspective on whether the village's evolution appears out of the ordinary. If you're willing to share your investigation efforts."
Their talk was interrupted by the arrival of a tall figure, clad in robes simpler than Elara's but clearly those of a mage, adorned in the kingdom's blue and white. Age had begun to silver his dark hair, and his deep-dark eyes showed the tough wisdom of a seasoned soldier.
"Ah, Magister Veran," Lady Elara introduced the newcomer, "This is Lynna, the appointed mage for the village."
Veran offered a nod of acknowledgment. "A pleasure, Lynna. I've heard about you. Aren't you the youngest graduate from the Academy if my memory doesn't fail me?"
Lynna blushed slightly, a bit taken aback by the recognition. "Yes, that would be me. It's an honor to meet you, Magister Veran."
Lady, Magister, these titles are odd, she thought. I'm not used to interacting with people holding such important positions.
With a chuckle, Veran replied, "It's always a joy to meet the Academy's rising stars. I'm sure there's much you can teach an old mage like me."
As Lynna and Elara resumed their seats, Veran made himself comfortable, adjusting his robes and taking a moment to appreciate the setting. The room was filled with the gentle aroma of freshly brewed tea, which seemed to immediately put them all at ease.
After enjoying their tea and a brief lull in conversation, they began sharing moments of camaraderie, reminiscing about the rigors of Academy life. "You know," Veran began, "Some classes were notoriously tough in my time. Particularly Elemental Specialization under Professor Caldane."
Lynna laughed, "Oh, Professor Caldane! His reputation hasn't changed a bit. Many nights I spent buried in scrolls, trying to make sense of his lectures."
Veran nodded with a knowing smile. "Some things never change. It's reassuring in a way."
As they reminisce about their Academy days, Lynna felt an unexpected kinship with the older mage. The daunting figure she had initially perceived melted away, replaced by an understanding colleague.
He's quite approachable and insightful, she mused internally. Not half bad for an older mage from the capital.
Their happy dialogue was cut short by Elara, who had been momentarily forgotten by both. "Maybe we can be a bit more casual? Just call me Elara, and him Veran. Sounds good?"
Without waiting for an answer, she continued, "Lynna, I think we will finish the day resting here. For your task for the mayor, will it be good for you to meet us here at 8 in the morning?"
"Yes, it will be my pleasure, Veran, Elara," Lynna responded, a bit unsure about dropping their formal titles. "You can rest for today. I'll see you both tomorrow."