Chapter 116: Higher in Makinaven
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Chapter 116: Higher in Makinaven
Tala licked her fingers clean of the last of the massive spread of food that Mistress Odera had brought for her.
Even so, Tala really hadnt registered what any of it was. She could have brought me food that was little better than scraps, and I probably wouldnt have noticed.
No, that wasnt fair. In her memory, the food had been good, but Tala hadnt taken the time to savor it as she ate.
Talas stomach gurgled. Seriously? She looked down at her own abdomen.
Mistress Odera smiled. We should go get some lunch. Shed stopped eating hours earlier. I also believe that Ive kept you from your normal morning routine?
Tala waved her off. Youve helped me talk through a lot of different things. A smile pulled up at the corner of her mouth. And you brought food.
Mistress Odera nodded. Im glad its been of use. After a moments pause, she continued. Please dont see this conversation as a solution or a fix.
Tala nodded in turn. So youve said. Talking through how Im feeling and how I perceive things is just a start.
Good. Shall we?
One moment. She took a breath and directed a shout over her shoulder. Terry!
Terry flickered into being on her shoulder, before regarding the empty plates on the table between the two women. He let out a disgruntled squawk and eyed Tala.
She laughed and tossed a much bigger than standard hunk of jerky. Were going to get lunch. Shall we get you something, there, too?
Terry was already happily enjoying his jerky. He bobbed a nod, then settled down into his customary resting place on her shoulder.
Im ready.
They stood and Mistress Odera swept the table clear of dishes, putting everything into a slim pack that almost hid against her back, when worn.
Tala hadnt seen it before today. But I suppose Ive only seen her at a restaurant in her home city and on the road, when she had a room for her use.
It was a storage item in the artifact style. If what Tala interpreted was correct, the space contained was easily four or five times what Kit had, within. Thats a valuable item.
The three came out of the cargo-slot into the bustling work-yard. The workers gave them passing glances, but they were, for the most part, ignored.
Do you know anywhere good to eat? I wasnt impressed with the food from that little side street
Mistress Odera nodded. That was closer to a quick stop-through for local workers than a place to get good food. She thought for a moment, then shrugged. That said, such places are often some of the best food you can find. But that isnt what you asked: I know of a couple of excellent places in the upper tiers. Shall we?
Tala nodded, and they strode off, turning to the south of the eastern gate this time. Mistress Odera said that the establishment they were going to was just off of the 4 oclock spiral.
They talked about small things as they moved up the new path. This road had a green and yellow theme, designating it for easy identification from the main floor, below.
The buildings were much the same as those theyd seen on the two oclock spiral, and as such, nothing really caught Talas attention. Even the green and yellow inner railing faded from notice after a short climb.
After a time, having made almost a full circuit of the city, they approached the top of this first tier and continued into that ceiling. The road remained largely unchanged, save the inner railing being replaced by a wall.
The lighting was still good, and there were still storefronts and side streets branching off, towards the outside of the tree.
I wonder if this is more, or less, valuable space? Theres nothing to distract potential customers from the shops, here, but they arent really visible from anywhere else.
After less than a hundred yards, the top of the road began to open once more, letting in more light from the second tier. Shortly after, they came up, level to that tiers floor, and Tala stopped, eyes wide.
The center of the tree, here, seemed to have been turned into a vast parkland. The ceiling was, again, close to one hundred feet up. Though, magical lights and effects made it difficult to notice that it wasnt open, cloudless sky.
Gently rolling, well cared for turf filled much of the space. Small, white flowers sprinkled the ground near and far. Is this all covered with clover? She didnt know enough to decide if that was good or not.
Several stands of trees were artfully scattered around the space, along with several delineated spaces of flatter ground, further divided by lines or a change in makeup. Sports areas?
Growing up in Marliweather, shed seen a few of those, but they werent that common. A benefit of a more static population, I suppose? The population in Marliweather, and most cities, was steadily declining, overall, while Makinavens would be rather static for the majority of its existence.
There was a scattering of food vendors at a few points throughout the massive park, and they seemed to be doing a brisk business with those who were enjoying the space.
Mistress Odera had paused beside Tala, and she spoke up, while the younger woman continued to examine the communal space. We can get food, here, if you desire.
Maybe another day. Id like to try wherever youre taking us.
As you say. They began walking again.
Do you know the usage rules of the park?
They are free for public use.
Do you think theyd mind if I used one of the sand courts for sparring? I hate sandIts coarse, and rough, and irritating. And it gets everywhere. Shed prefer the green-covered areas, but she didnt want to ruin the vegetation.
That should be allowed. Something about Mistress Oderas tone implied hesitation, however.
What are you thinking?
Id be concerned specifically about you sparring with Terry in such a public space. In the worst case, it could cause a panic, if people thought he was a wild creature who had somehow penetrated the defenses.
Yeah that probably wouldnt be good. Tala frowned. Any ideas on how to mitigate that?
Well, you could have Rane or a few city guards observe. Then, if anyone saw you, theyd see the armed men and women around you, casually watching. It wouldnt be a perfect solution, but it could work.
Ill bet the Guards Guild has training spaces anyways. Ill just drop through there and ask.
It is an incredibly clear day.
Mistress Odera smiled and nodded. Indeed, it is. Now, lets get some food.
Tala nodded and smiled in turn.
The nature of the tree meant that this tier of branches likely had the best views, at least until those at the very top. Those in the middle layers would be more obscured by leaves and other branches. Ill have to go see what it looks like from up there. That might be a good place to meditate and contemplate Fusing. She nodded to herself. Ill do that, today.
Mistress Odera led them down the branch-way for close to a quarter hour, traversing a bit less than half the branchs length and steadily sloping upward. There was still quite a bit of foot-traffic around them, as well as a few vehicles.
They likely could have continued on Terry, but Tala found herself thoroughly enjoying the walk in the open air.
When they reached their destination, Mistress Odera moved down a set of stairs to their left. She opened the door into the restaurant without hesitation, and Tala followed her through.
A graying man bowed to them as they entered. Welcome to our humble establishment, Mistresses. Do you have a table preference?
Mistress Odera spoke with him quietly for a moment, and he brightened. Is there a hint of magic around them? Is that why I cant hear?
Mistress Oderas workings were incredibly subtle, and Tala was still struggling to perceive them with any consistency.
Unless they are overtly obvious, like a defensive shield.
The hints of power in the air vanished before Tala was sure they had actually been there.
Oh, certainly, Mistress! Right this way.
Tala frowned but followed Mistress Odera and the older gentleman. They went down a couple of floors then outward towards the north side of the branch.
They were seated at a booth hard up against the outside of the limb. A large section of the wall beside them had been replaced with glass or something like it. That, coupled with the distance theyd traveled down the branch, ensured that they could easily see the mountains in the distance.
It was breathtaking.
Their server came a few minutes later, bringing water without ice for both of them, along with the start of their meal.
Empty plates were set in front of each of them and dishes laden with food were set on the table between them. Rice was in abundance, both plain and fried, and most of the main dishes consisted of variously glazed and seasoned meats and veggies, intended to be eaten overtop of, and with, the rice.
Terry sampled a bit of everything before curling up beside the window to sleep.
After the server had dropped off the sixth and final serving bowl, Tala leaned forward. Mistress Odera, how much is this going to cost?
The older Mage shrugged. Its their lunch special. A grin split her face. For a family of six. They charge two silver and fifty copper. Its a real deal, if you ask me.
Tala looked at the food, realizing that shed already eaten more than Mistress Odera was likely to, all told. Sohow much will I owe?
A silver is reasonable to my mind.
Tala cocked an eyebrow.
I invited you. If you ate a normal amount, Id happily treat you, but my budget wont handle your intake requirements.
We cant charge it as a necessary expense? Tala asked hopefully.
Mistress Odera grinned. After thinking it through, I believe I can justify a meal each day but not more.
Fair enough. After a moment, Tala smiled again. Thank you.
Enjoy. We wont be in this city for too long, and I havent found food in this style in Bandfast. After a brief hesitation, she added, Well, at least not this good.
It is that.
So, without further comment, the two settled in to eat. Mistress Odera ate a careful amount, enjoying every bite but not overindulging by any metric. At the same time, Tala devoured her second feast of the day.
* * *
After Tala had polished off the last of the food, the three of them paid and departed. The elderly gentleman wished them a good day and a speedy return.
Instead of heading back into the main tree of Makinaven, Mistress Odera led them further down the branch, nearly as far as theyd previously come from the main trunk, to where the road ended in a wide, flat circle. The branch continued on for quite a ways, but it thinned, becoming too slender to be a safe foundation for the street to continue upon.
The wide, flat circle was presumably for vehicles to turn around on, but it was currently vacant, and the variation in the branch left it largely hidden from the rest of the length.
True, the windows on the other branches, and those on this side of the tree within the trunk above, looked down on the space, but those were quite far away.
This is the closest location I knew of, where you could do your regular exercises and stretching in relative privacy.
Tala smiled to the older woman. Thank you, Mistress Odera. This was incredibly kind of you.
Oh, Im happy to assist. Now, I have much that I need to get to. I assume you can find your own way back?
Absolutely.
Then, I bid you a good day, Mistress Tala. Do try not to fall off. There was the glint of humor in her eyes.
Take care, Mistress Odera. I will do my best not to.
The other Mage departed, and Tala began her training.
There, high in the great tree of Makinaven; caressed by a pleasantly chill, winter breeze; hidden from most eyes, save the most discerning; Tala strove to improve.
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Chapter 116: Higher in Makinaven
Tala licked her fingers clean of the last of the massive spread of food that Mistress Odera had brought for her.
Even so, Tala really hadnt registered what any of it was. She could have brought me food that was little better than scraps, and I probably wouldnt have noticed.
No, that wasnt fair. In her memory, the food had been good, but Tala hadnt taken the time to savor it as she ate.
Talas stomach gurgled. Seriously? She looked down at her own abdomen.
Mistress Odera smiled. We should go get some lunch. Shed stopped eating hours earlier. I also believe that Ive kept you from your normal morning routine?
Tala waved her off. Youve helped me talk through a lot of different things. A smile pulled up at the corner of her mouth. And you brought food.
Mistress Odera nodded. Im glad its been of use. After a moments pause, she continued. Please dont see this conversation as a solution or a fix.
Tala nodded in turn. So youve said. Talking through how Im feeling and how I perceive things is just a start.
Good. Shall we?
One moment. She took a breath and directed a shout over her shoulder. Terry!
Terry flickered into being on her shoulder, before regarding the empty plates on the table between the two women. He let out a disgruntled squawk and eyed Tala.
She laughed and tossed a much bigger than standard hunk of jerky. Were going to get lunch. Shall we get you something, there, too?
Terry was already happily enjoying his jerky. He bobbed a nod, then settled down into his customary resting place on her shoulder.
Im ready.
They stood and Mistress Odera swept the table clear of dishes, putting everything into a slim pack that almost hid against her back, when worn.
Tala hadnt seen it before today. But I suppose Ive only seen her at a restaurant in her home city and on the road, when she had a room for her use.
It was a storage item in the artifact style. If what Tala interpreted was correct, the space contained was easily four or five times what Kit had, within. Thats a valuable item.
The three came out of the cargo-slot into the bustling work-yard. The workers gave them passing glances, but they were, for the most part, ignored.
Do you know anywhere good to eat? I wasnt impressed with the food from that little side street
Mistress Odera nodded. That was closer to a quick stop-through for local workers than a place to get good food. She thought for a moment, then shrugged. That said, such places are often some of the best food you can find. But that isnt what you asked: I know of a couple of excellent places in the upper tiers. Shall we?
Tala nodded, and they strode off, turning to the south of the eastern gate this time. Mistress Odera said that the establishment they were going to was just off of the 4 oclock spiral.
They talked about small things as they moved up the new path. This road had a green and yellow theme, designating it for easy identification from the main floor, below.
The buildings were much the same as those theyd seen on the two oclock spiral, and as such, nothing really caught Talas attention. Even the green and yellow inner railing faded from notice after a short climb.
After a time, having made almost a full circuit of the city, they approached the top of this first tier and continued into that ceiling. The road remained largely unchanged, save the inner railing being replaced by a wall.
The lighting was still good, and there were still storefronts and side streets branching off, towards the outside of the tree.
I wonder if this is more, or less, valuable space? Theres nothing to distract potential customers from the shops, here, but they arent really visible from anywhere else.
After less than a hundred yards, the top of the road began to open once more, letting in more light from the second tier. Shortly after, they came up, level to that tiers floor, and Tala stopped, eyes wide.
The center of the tree, here, seemed to have been turned into a vast parkland. The ceiling was, again, close to one hundred feet up. Though, magical lights and effects made it difficult to notice that it wasnt open, cloudless sky.
Gently rolling, well cared for turf filled much of the space. Small, white flowers sprinkled the ground near and far. Is this all covered with clover? She didnt know enough to decide if that was good or not.
Several stands of trees were artfully scattered around the space, along with several delineated spaces of flatter ground, further divided by lines or a change in makeup. Sports areas?
Growing up in Marliweather, shed seen a few of those, but they werent that common. A benefit of a more static population, I suppose? The population in Marliweather, and most cities, was steadily declining, overall, while Makinavens would be rather static for the majority of its existence.
There was a scattering of food vendors at a few points throughout the massive park, and they seemed to be doing a brisk business with those who were enjoying the space.
Mistress Odera had paused beside Tala, and she spoke up, while the younger woman continued to examine the communal space. We can get food, here, if you desire.
Maybe another day. Id like to try wherever youre taking us.
As you say. They began walking again.
Do you know the usage rules of the park?
They are free for public use.
Do you think theyd mind if I used one of the sand courts for sparring? I hate sandIts coarse, and rough, and irritating. And it gets everywhere. Shed prefer the green-covered areas, but she didnt want to ruin the vegetation.
That should be allowed. Something about Mistress Oderas tone implied hesitation, however.
What are you thinking?
Id be concerned specifically about you sparring with Terry in such a public space. In the worst case, it could cause a panic, if people thought he was a wild creature who had somehow penetrated the defenses.
Yeah that probably wouldnt be good. Tala frowned. Any ideas on how to mitigate that?
Well, you could have Rane or a few city guards observe. Then, if anyone saw you, theyd see the armed men and women around you, casually watching. It wouldnt be a perfect solution, but it could work.
Ill bet the Guards Guild has training spaces anyways. Ill just drop through there and ask.
It is an incredibly clear day.
Mistress Odera smiled and nodded. Indeed, it is. Now, lets get some food.
Tala nodded and smiled in turn.
The nature of the tree meant that this tier of branches likely had the best views, at least until those at the very top. Those in the middle layers would be more obscured by leaves and other branches. Ill have to go see what it looks like from up there. That might be a good place to meditate and contemplate Fusing. She nodded to herself. Ill do that, today.
Mistress Odera led them down the branch-way for close to a quarter hour, traversing a bit less than half the branchs length and steadily sloping upward. There was still quite a bit of foot-traffic around them, as well as a few vehicles.
They likely could have continued on Terry, but Tala found herself thoroughly enjoying the walk in the open air.
When they reached their destination, Mistress Odera moved down a set of stairs to their left. She opened the door into the restaurant without hesitation, and Tala followed her through.
A graying man bowed to them as they entered. Welcome to our humble establishment, Mistresses. Do you have a table preference?
Mistress Odera spoke with him quietly for a moment, and he brightened. Is there a hint of magic around them? Is that why I cant hear?
Mistress Oderas workings were incredibly subtle, and Tala was still struggling to perceive them with any consistency.
Unless they are overtly obvious, like a defensive shield.
The hints of power in the air vanished before Tala was sure they had actually been there.
Oh, certainly, Mistress! Right this way.
Tala frowned but followed Mistress Odera and the older gentleman. They went down a couple of floors then outward towards the north side of the branch.
They were seated at a booth hard up against the outside of the limb. A large section of the wall beside them had been replaced with glass or something like it. That, coupled with the distance theyd traveled down the branch, ensured that they could easily see the mountains in the distance.
It was breathtaking.
Their server came a few minutes later, bringing water without ice for both of them, along with the start of their meal.
Empty plates were set in front of each of them and dishes laden with food were set on the table between them. Rice was in abundance, both plain and fried, and most of the main dishes consisted of variously glazed and seasoned meats and veggies, intended to be eaten overtop of, and with, the rice.
Terry sampled a bit of everything before curling up beside the window to sleep.
After the server had dropped off the sixth and final serving bowl, Tala leaned forward. Mistress Odera, how much is this going to cost?
The older Mage shrugged. Its their lunch special. A grin split her face. For a family of six. They charge two silver and fifty copper. Its a real deal, if you ask me.
Tala looked at the food, realizing that shed already eaten more than Mistress Odera was likely to, all told. Sohow much will I owe?
A silver is reasonable to my mind.
Tala cocked an eyebrow.
I invited you. If you ate a normal amount, Id happily treat you, but my budget wont handle your intake requirements.
We cant charge it as a necessary expense? Tala asked hopefully.
Mistress Odera grinned. After thinking it through, I believe I can justify a meal each day but not more.
Fair enough. After a moment, Tala smiled again. Thank you.
Enjoy. We wont be in this city for too long, and I havent found food in this style in Bandfast. After a brief hesitation, she added, Well, at least not this good.
It is that.
So, without further comment, the two settled in to eat. Mistress Odera ate a careful amount, enjoying every bite but not overindulging by any metric. At the same time, Tala devoured her second feast of the day.
* * *
After Tala had polished off the last of the food, the three of them paid and departed. The elderly gentleman wished them a good day and a speedy return.
Instead of heading back into the main tree of Makinaven, Mistress Odera led them further down the branch, nearly as far as theyd previously come from the main trunk, to where the road ended in a wide, flat circle. The branch continued on for quite a ways, but it thinned, becoming too slender to be a safe foundation for the street to continue upon.
The wide, flat circle was presumably for vehicles to turn around on, but it was currently vacant, and the variation in the branch left it largely hidden from the rest of the length.
True, the windows on the other branches, and those on this side of the tree within the trunk above, looked down on the space, but those were quite far away.
This is the closest location I knew of, where you could do your regular exercises and stretching in relative privacy.
Tala smiled to the older woman. Thank you, Mistress Odera. This was incredibly kind of you.
Oh, Im happy to assist. Now, I have much that I need to get to. I assume you can find your own way back?
Absolutely.
Then, I bid you a good day, Mistress Tala. Do try not to fall off. There was the glint of humor in her eyes.
Take care, Mistress Odera. I will do my best not to.
The other Mage departed, and Tala began her training.
There, high in the great tree of Makinaven; caressed by a pleasantly chill, winter breeze; hidden from most eyes, save the most discerning; Tala strove to improve.
Chapter 116: Higher in MakinavenTala licked her fingers clean of the last of the massive spread of food that Mistress Odera had brought for her.Even so, Tala really hadnt registered what any of it was. She could have brought me food that was little better than scraps, and I probably wouldnt have noticed.No, that wasnt fair. In her memory, the food had been good, but Tala hadnt taken the time to savor it as she ate.Talas stomach gurgled. Seriously? She looked down at her own abdomen.Mistress Odera smiled. We should go get some lunch. Shed stopped eating hours earlier. I also believe that Ive kept you from your normal morning routine?Tala waved her off. Youve helped me talk through a lot of different things. A smile pulled up at the corner of her mouth. And you brought food.Mistress Odera nodded. Im glad its been of use. After a moments pause, she continued. Please dont see this conversation as a solution or a fix.Tala nodded in turn. So youve said. Talking through how Im feeling and how I perceive things is just a start.Good. Shall we?One moment. She took a breath and directed a shout over her shoulder. Terry!Terry flickered into being on her shoulder, before regarding the empty plates on the table between the two women. He let out a disgruntled squawk and eyed Tala.She laughed and tossed a much bigger than standard hunk of jerky. Were going to get lunch. Shall we get you something, there, too?Terry was already happily enjoying his jerky. He bobbed a nod, then settled down into his customary resting place on her shoulder.Im ready.They stood and Mistress Odera swept the table clear of dishes, putting everything into a slim pack that almost hid against her back, when worn.Tala hadnt seen it before today. But I suppose Ive only seen her at a restaurant in her home city and on the road, when she had a room for her use.It was a storage item in the artifact style. If what Tala interpreted was correct, the space contained was easily four or five times what Kit had, within. Thats a valuable item.The three came out of the cargo-slot into the bustling work-yard. The workers gave them passing glances, but they were, for the most part, ignored.Do you know anywhere good to eat? I wasnt impressed with the food from that little side streetMistress Odera nodded. That was closer to a quick stop-through for local workers than a place to get good food. She thought for a moment, then shrugged. That said, such places are often some of the best food you can find. But that isnt what you asked: I know of a couple of excellent places in the upper tiers. Shall we?Tala nodded, and they strode off, turning to the south of the eastern gate this time. Mistress Odera said that the establishment they were going to was just off of the 4 oclock spiral.They talked about small things as they moved up the new path. This road had a green and yellow theme, designating it for easy identification from the main floor, below.The buildings were much the same as those theyd seen on the two oclock spiral, and as such, nothing really caught Talas attention. Even the green and yellow inner railing faded from notice after a short climb.After a time, having made almost a full circuit of the city, they approached the top of this first tier and continued into that ceiling. The road remained largely unchanged, save the inner railing being replaced by a wall.The lighting was still good, and there were still storefronts and side streets branching off, towards the outside of the tree.I wonder if this is more, or less, valuable space? Theres nothing to distract potential customers from the shops, here, but they arent really visible from anywhere else.After less than a hundred yards, the top of the road began to open once more, letting in more light from the second tier. Shortly after, they came up, level to that tiers floor, and Tala stopped, eyes wide.The center of the tree, here, seemed to have been turned into a vast parkland. The ceiling was, again, close to one hundred feet up. Though, magical lights and effects made it difficult to notice that it wasnt open, cloudless sky.Gently rolling, well cared for turf filled much of the space. Small, white flowers sprinkled the ground near and far. Is this all covered with clover? She didnt know enough to decide if that was good or not.Several stands of trees were artfully scattered around the space, along with several delineated spaces of flatter ground, further divided by lines or a change in makeup. Sports areas?Growing up in Marliweather, shed seen a few of those, but they werent that common. A benefit of a more static population, I suppose? The population in Marliweather, and most cities, was steadily declining, overall, while Makinavens would be rather static for the majority of its existence.There was a scattering of food vendors at a few points throughout the massive park, and they seemed to be doing a brisk business with those who were enjoying the space.Mistress Odera had paused beside Tala, and she spoke up, while the younger woman continued to examine the communal space. We can get food, here, if you desire.Maybe another day. Id like to try wherever youre taking us.As you say. They began walking again.Do you know the usage rules of the park?They are free for public use.Do you think theyd mind if I used one of the sand courts for sparring? I hate sandIts coarse, and rough, and irritating. And it gets everywhere. Shed prefer the green-covered areas, but she didnt want to ruin the vegetation.That should be allowed. Something about Mistress Oderas tone implied hesitation, however.What are you thinking?Id be concerned specifically about you sparring with Terry in such a public space. In the worst case, it could cause a panic, if people thought he was a wild creature who had somehow penetrated the defenses.Yeah that probably wouldnt be good. Tala frowned. Any ideas on how to mitigate that?Well, you could have Rane or a few city guards observe. Then, if anyone saw you, theyd see the armed men and women around you, casually watching. It wouldnt be a perfect solution, but it could work.Ill bet the Guards Guild has training spaces anyways. Ill just drop through there and ask.It is an incredibly clear day.Mistress Odera smiled and nodded. Indeed, it is. Now, lets get some food.Tala nodded and smiled in turn.The nature of the tree meant that this tier of branches likely had the best views, at least until those at the very top. Those in the middle layers would be more obscured by leaves and other branches. Ill have to go see what it looks like from up there. That might be a good place to meditate and contemplate Fusing. She nodded to herself. Ill do that, today.Mistress Odera led them down the branch-way for close to a quarter hour, traversing a bit less than half the branchs length and steadily sloping upward. There was still quite a bit of foot-traffic around them, as well as a few vehicles.They likely could have continued on Terry, but Tala found herself thoroughly enjoying the walk in the open air.When they reached their destination, Mistress Odera moved down a set of stairs to their left. She opened the door into the restaurant without hesitation, and Tala followed her through.A graying man bowed to them as they entered. Welcome to our humble establishment, Mistresses. Do you have a table preference?Mistress Odera spoke with him quietly for a moment, and he brightened. Is there a hint of magic around them? Is that why I cant hear?Mistress Oderas workings were incredibly subtle, and Tala was still struggling to perceive them with any consistency.Unless they are overtly obvious, like a defensive shield.The hints of power in the air vanished before Tala was sure they had actually been there.Oh, certainly, Mistress! Right this way.Tala frowned but followed Mistress Odera and the older gentleman. They went down a couple of floors then outward towards the north side of the branch.They were seated at a booth hard up against the outside of the limb. A large section of the wall beside them had been replaced with glass or something like it. That, coupled with the distance theyd traveled down the branch, ensured that they could easily see the mountains in the distance.It was breathtaking.Their server came a few minutes later, bringing water without ice for both of them, along with the start of their meal.Empty plates were set in front of each of them and dishes laden with food were set on the table between them. Rice was in abundance, both plain and fried, and most of the main dishes consisted of variously glazed and seasoned meats and veggies, intended to be eaten overtop of, and with, the rice.Terry sampled a bit of everything before curling up beside the window to sleep.After the server had dropped off the sixth and final serving bowl, Tala leaned forward. Mistress Odera, how much is this going to cost?The older Mage shrugged. Its their lunch special. A grin split her face. For a family of six. They charge two silver and fifty copper. Its a real deal, if you ask me.Tala looked at the food, realizing that shed already eaten more than Mistress Odera was likely to, all told. Sohow much will I owe?A silver is reasonable to my mind.Tala cocked an eyebrow.I invited you. If you ate a normal amount, Id happily treat you, but my budget wont handle your intake requirements.We cant charge it as a necessary expense? Tala asked hopefully.Mistress Odera grinned. After thinking it through, I believe I can justify a meal each day but not more.Fair enough. After a moment, Tala smiled again. Thank you.Enjoy. We wont be in this city for too long, and I havent found food in this style in Bandfast. After a brief hesitation, she added, Well, at least not this good.It is that.So, without further comment, the two settled in to eat. Mistress Odera ate a careful amount, enjoying every bite but not overindulging by any metric. At the same time, Tala devoured her second feast of the day.* * *After Tala had polished off the last of the food, the three of them paid and departed. The elderly gentleman wished them a good day and a speedy return.Instead of heading back into the main tree of Makinaven, Mistress Odera led them further down the branch, nearly as far as theyd previously come from the main trunk, to where the road ended in a wide, flat circle. The branch continued on for quite a ways, but it thinned, becoming too slender to be a safe foundation for the street to continue upon.The wide, flat circle was presumably for vehicles to turn around on, but it was currently vacant, and the variation in the branch left it largely hidden from the rest of the length.True, the windows on the other branches, and those on this side of the tree within the trunk above, looked down on the space, but those were quite far away.This is the closest location I knew of, where you could do your regular exercises and stretching in relative privacy.Tala smiled to the older woman. Thank you, Mistress Odera. This was incredibly kind of you.Oh, Im happy to assist. Now, I have much that I need to get to. I assume you can find your own way back?Absolutely.Then, I bid you a good day, Mistress Tala. Do try not to fall off. There was the glint of humor in her eyes.Take care, Mistress Odera. I will do my best not to.The other Mage departed, and Tala began her training.There, high in the great tree of Makinaven; caressed by a pleasantly chill, winter breeze; hidden from most eyes, save the most discerning; Tala strove to improve.
