The room grew tense with anticipation as Roan described his discovery. His words painted a vivid image of the strange findings in the forest: his investigation, his trip to the forest, the altar, the traces of recent usage—although he chose to deliberately leave out the part about him being a bit scared.
As he finished his account, the room seemed to hold its collective breath. The weight of Roan's revelation was palpable, pressing down on the ornate rugs and into the spaces between the high ceiling beams.
Lynna was the first to break the silence. Her troubled face was lit by the flickering candlelight, casting shadows in her eyes. "This... this is significant. Creating a cult and worshiping a deity not approved by the Kingdom is not only blasphemous but strictly illegal. Such actions could bring severe repercussions down upon the entire village." She inhaled deeply, concern evident in her voice. "What should we do?"
Elara looked at Lynna steadily. "The real question is, what will you do, Lynna?"
Lynna was taken aback, her voice rising in disbelief. "You're not going to assist us?"
Elara sighed gently, her steady voice a contrast to Lynna's rising tension. "Remember, our paths crossed due to mutual interests. The challenges of your village remain your own. However," she paused, her fingers delicately tracing the rim of her teacup, "if you believe it to be a grave threat, I could offer some assistance. For instance, I could lend you some of my guards."
Lynna's expression was a mixture of frustration and surprise. "Don't you want to help us more directly?"
Elara's gaze was motherly. "It's not a matter of willingness, Lynna. It's about jurisdiction. I'm here on an official mission, not to interfere with your village affairs. Still," she tilted her head slightly, "I'm curious. Will you be able to handle the situation appropriately?"
The words hung in the air, a challenge delicately woven with genuine concern. The room, filled with the faint scent of tea and the gentle crackle of the fireplace, seemed to hold its breath, awaiting Lynna's response.
A flare of pride ignited in Lynna's eyes. "I will handle this. Thanks for your concern, but there will be no need for your guards."
Lynna turned to Roan, her brother, seeking his familiar support. "Roan, you'll help right?"
Roan nodded firmly, knowing that the village pride was on the line. "Aye, you can count on me, sis. Just let me know what's needed."
Lynna's gaze drifted toward the window, the early evening light casting long shadows on the manor's grounds. Maybe we could ask Wil's help too, she mused aloud. "He's the most knowledgeable about the forest, and I don't know anyone better with a quarterstaff."
Elara leaned back, watching the siblings with an inscrutable expression. The dynamic between the two, the blend of familial love and shared duty, was evident. Perhaps, she considered, she'd made the right choice in testing Lynna's resolve. Only time would tell how the village's young mage would navigate these murky waters.