The Algora Family estate stretched across more than a thousand acres, its grand structure carved from elegant stone, adorned with intricate designs and polished marble. A long pathway wound through lush gardens, lined with countless varieties of flowers and towering trees. Banners bearing the image of the goddess Algoria, stitched in fine golden threads, fluttered proudly in the breeze. As Vel and Shin approached, the guards at the gates bowed low in respect.
Inside, the atmosphere changed—cooler, more refined. Velvet carpets lined the floor, chandeliers cast a soft glow overhead, and all around, silent eyes watched their every move.
In the main hall, a group of nobles milled near a grand doorway. Among them stood a man dressed in deep green robes, golden cufflinks gleaming. His smile was courteous.
"Guild Master Vel," the noble greeted, lips tight. "What an.. unexpected addition to this gathering."
Vel offered a casual smile. "Greetings Ederic-sama. That's a fine robe—where'd you find one like that?"
Shin stepped in between, his voice soft but firm. "Let's not start here, Vel-sama."
The noble sniffed. "Tch. Of course. You adventurers have such… ill manners."
Another noble in crimson chuckled quietly, and a third turned away, clearly uninterested.
Before tension could rise further, the large doors opened with a creak. A servant announced, "The Lord will see you now."
Inside, a grand circular chamber held Seven high-backed chairs arranged around the table. The floor was polished marble, catching the warm noon light that streamed through the tall, arched windows.
At the center sat Lord Halric Algoria, a man in his early forties. His royal blue tunic was sharp adorned with delicate gold embroidery. He held himself with the unwavering composure of nobility born to rule.
"Vel," Lord Halric greeted with a genuine smile. "And Shin. I'm glad you came."
Vel offered a graceful bow, the hem of his guild master's cloak sweeping the polished floor. "A pleasure as always, Lord Halric."
Just behind him, Shin followed suit with a respectful bow.
The other five seats were already occupied by the local lords of Nadalia's surrounding districts—each distinct in manner and dress.
Lord Eddric Valeheart, clad in a deep green robe embroidered with thorn patterns, sat stiffly with one leg crossed, gloved fingers tapping the chair arm.
Lord Renard Solmere, in crimson finery with golden chains across his chest, bore the look of a man who weighed everything for value.
Lady Mirelle Tarrowyn sat still and straight in a flowing gown of silver and blue, her ashen hair braided over one shoulder. Her expression was unreadable, yet her pale green eyes missed nothing.
Lord Bran Kestrel, broad-shouldered and dressed in earth-toned noble wear, offered Vel a grin as warm as the sun.
Lord Hiram Dorne, the eldest of the group, leaned on a ivory cane, his dark violet robe elegant but simple. He wore thin spectacles.
As everyone took their seats within the hall, the air filled with anticipation. A wide map of Nadalia pinned to the wall—its surface marked with colored pins and small notes.
Lord Halric, rose first, his voice solemn and composed.
"I've called you all here because of some troubling reports," he began, his tone grim. "Elemental creatures are appearing all across Nadalia—no consistent pattern, no warning signs." He pointed to the map laid out before them. "What's more concerning… there are no records of these monsters ever being native to these terrains."
He pointed with a wooden stick toward a cluster of red marks, spread out across the map. "Three reports from the forests outside Algora, two sightings near the port of Marina, and one north of the Elden Ridge, near the border of Eldoria's."
Murmurs rippled through the chamber.
Halric continued, voice growing heavier, "Yesterday, a C-rank adventuring party was nearly wiped out near the western forest. Their account mentioned... something new?."
Lord Eddric, leaned forward. "So where was the Guild then? Why wasn't this monsters were spotted sooner?"
Vel, seated casually. "An A-rank team was deployed as soon as we could. They're investigating the forest right now as we speak. If there is anything out there we'll know."
Lord Renard arched his brow. "And yet, these attacks span far beyond Algora's border. Shouldn't the Guild Master act with more urgency when rumors first began?"
Vel sat forward slightly. "I act on facts. Not rumors. And last I checked, I don't have to answer to some wealthy merchant who don't even-."
Before he could finish, as always, Shin saved the room from igniting.
"What Vel-sama means is that the Guild is coordinating with every other guild. We've reached out to every guild across the Algora region, asking them to remain alert and report anything unusual. Furthermore, we're in contact with Marina and Eldoria's Guild Halls. All three cities have begun investigations."
Halric nodded, satisfied. He pointed to the map again, this time at the three colored circles representing Nadalia's primary cities: Eldoria, the capital in the east; Marina, the southern port city; and Algora, where they stood now.
"Twelve villages lie under our nations jurisdiction—four under each city's care. Reports of casualties are coming from those remote outposts too. We must not let this go unchecked."
Lord Bran, loyal and practical, gave a firm nod. "The Guild's been the shield of this city for years. If they say they're on it, they are."
Lady Mirelle, ever the calm voice, finally spoke. "Let's wait for the A-rank party's full report. I'd prefer facts over fear."
As the tension faded, Lord Halric stood tall, his voice commanding. "This meeting is adjourned. I expect your full cooperation in this and all future matters. For now—consider yourselves dismissed."
One by one, the nobles departed, robes rustling and whispers trailing behind.
Near the exit, Vel lingered beside Shin, watching Lord Eddric grumble his way out.
Vel muttered under his breath, "If I trip Eddric and he falls on his face, does that count as rebellion?"
Without missing a beat, Shin replied flatly, "Yes. And I'd have to write a report about it. Please don't."
Vel sighed dramatically, turning on his heel. "Ruining my fun again."