At the entrance of the count's estate stood a magnificent wrought-iron gate, its ornate design a fitting prelude to the grandeur within. Beyond the gate, the estate unfolded like a hidden garden of elegance. At its center stood a majestic two-story brick house, its architecture a harmonious blend of luxury and comfort.
Adjacent to the main house was the staff house, a charming one-story building designed with the same refined sensibility as the estate itself. Nearby, a well-maintained stable served as a testament to the owner's high status.
Two guards stationed at the gate saluted Nanima, reminding Ranav that she was a regular visitor here. As they entered, his attention was drawn to the lavish garden, its sweet fragrance lingering in the air. The flower beds burst with vibrant hues, creating a living tapestry of color, as though the blooms were dancing in harmony with the breeze.
A tranquil pond nearby mirrored the surrounding beauty, its waters shimmering under the setting sun while delicate white lilies floated serenely on its surface. Stone steps led down to the pond's edge, inviting quiet reflection. Behind the estate, a vast expanse of trees stretched toward the horizon, framing the landscape with their protective trunks. Distant hills rose gracefully, their gentle slopes completing this tranquil haven.
A well-dressed middle-aged man emerged from the main house, bowing respectfully before Nanima. "Welcome, my lady. I am here to receive you. Our mistress has already been informed of your arrival and will be here shortly. Please, come inside."
"Show me the way," Nanima replied.
Ranav followed Nanima into the house, where she settled into a lounge chair and gestured for him to sit beside her. The chair was both exquisite and comfortable, and as he sat, he couldn't help but take in the luxurious surroundings.
Animal heads adorned the walls, trophies of a skilled hunter. Ranav counted them… bear, kelpie, chamrosh, tiger, bakeneko, and a few creatures he didn't recognize. In one corner, a large glass cabinet gleamed with trophies, shields, and medals, their arrangement speaking to the household's achievements. Nearby, a broadsword and a massive shield hung on the wall, commanding attention.
As Ranav marveled at the room, a stunning middle-aged woman descended the grand staircase at the center of the room. "Naria, you're late," she said with a teasing smile. "I thought you'd be here before lunch."
"I wanted to, but that damned merchant delayed me until the afternoon," Nanima replied with a sigh.
"You're as stingy as ever. You could have hired a carriage, or I could have sent one if you'd asked."
Ranav finally looked at the woman. This must be the countess, he thought. She wore an elegant white gown, her presence exuding an aura of grace and command. Her appearance belied her age; though she seemed close to Nanima's, she looked no older than her thirties, with no signs of aging marring her features.
He stood and bowed slightly. "I am Ranav Limbekai, disciple of—"
The countess waved her hand, cutting him off with a gentle smile. "No need for formalities. I've seen you before, and your master speaks of you often."
Turning to Nanima, she added, "I never thought you'd take on a disciple. Since you've chosen him, Ranav, you may call me Aunt Vedika. My full name is Vedika Rawat."
"Countess, no need to spoil him more," Nanima interjected. "He already gives me plenty of headaches."
Vedika laughed, taking a seat in one of the center chairs. She gestured to a servant, who promptly brought out a tray of snacks. "You've had a long journey," Vedika said, addressing both master and disciple. "Rooms are being prepared for you. Enjoy some snacks in the meantime."
Turning to Ranav, she added, "Don't be shy. Treat this as your home. As Naria's disciple, you might find yourself visiting often."
Ranav, hungry after the bumpy ride, eagerly dug into the snacks, paying little attention to his surroundings.
Nanima turned to Vedika. "I'll be leaving for the capital early tomorrow morning. I need to report the recent activity in the Doon Valley."
"The bandits you dealt with a few days ago?" Vedika asked.
"Yes. The bandits themselves aren't important, but they killed a merchant who was a distant member of the Agnisham family. I recovered his storage ring, and the Mage Association wants it returned. Since the family is connected to the royals, it's a delicate matter."
"That does complicate things," Vedika agreed. "But it's straightforward enough. Submit the ring with a report, and if anyone causes trouble, just inform me."
"Of course. It shouldn't take more than five to seven days. In the meantime, Ranav has an appointment the day after tomorrow. He can manage it himself, but I'll need one of your staff to accompany him."
"Don't worry," Vedika assured her. "He'll be safe here until you return."
"I'm not worried about him," Nanima said with a smirk. "I'm worried about anyone who crosses him."
"What nonsense! You're slandering your disciple. Look at him… so obedient, eating without a care in the world," Vedika teased, laughing.
Nanima sighed. "You know his strength. I've told you about his fights, haven't I? I keep urging him to downplay his power, but he doesn't listen. One provocation, and he injured two trainee knights."
Ranav, unable to hold back, interjected, "Master, I injured only one, not two."
Nanima scoffed. "Do you think your opponent's wrist wasn't broken? He just forgot to cry. I had to heal him myself… for free! You cost me eight copper coins!"
Vedika burst into laughter. "Naria, you're more upset about losing the eight coins than about the incident itself!"
Nanima chuckled. "Well, I do have to count my coins carefully. I'm not as rich as you, Countess."
At that moment, a servant approached and whispered something to Vedika. She nodded and turned to her guests. "Your rooms are ready. Come with me; I'll show you where you'll be staying."
Nanima and Ranav stood and followed the countess, all three walked towards the first floor.