Chapter 37: Final Destination

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"How was the journey, Laksmana?"

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"It was... Fascinating."

"To say the least."

The envoy from the capital of Star Groove arrived at Cardinal Peaks sooner than expected. Mayor Rachmat Sulong welcomed them with a warm smile, extending a hand to Laksmana Bujang in greeting.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"Welcome to Cardinal Peaks."

"We are honored to have you here."

"Please, come in and rest after your long journey."

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"Thank you, Mayor Rachmat."

"The town is truly breathtaking."

"And... Do the ballistas really work?"

"They seem to be oddly big..."

"And clunky."

Laksmana Bujang reciprocated the mayor's smile and shook his hand firmly while being in awe of the town's defenses. As the entourage entered the grand hall of the Mayor's residence, Mayor Rachmat gestured towards a comfortable seating area.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"Oh yes... They do work I assure you."

"After previous tragedies, the people of Cardinal Peaks do not take our town's security lightly."

"Please, make yourselves at home."

"I'll have some refreshments brought in shortly."

"But first, tell me, how are things in Star Groove?"

"I trust Sultan Areef is in good health?"

Laksmana Bujang took a seat and leaned back, letting out a breath of relief. The rest of the entourage made themselves comfortable while admiring the exquisite grand hall of the mayor's residence.

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"Sultan Areef is in good health, Mayor Rachmat."

"The capital is bustling with energy and optimism due to the advancements in magical research and scientific discoveries made in this town."

"However, there are concerns among some factions about the little prodigy, Zanno."

Mayor Rachmat nodded, his expression thoughtful.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"Ah, Zanno. I have always wondered, when will the Sultan send someone to discuss the little kid's future."

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"Yes, Mayor Rachmat, the sultan is aware of the concerns surrounding Zanno's abilities and potential."

"He believes that Cardinal Peaks, with its unique blend of magic and science, is the perfect place for Zanno to further develop his skills and find his place in the world."

"The establishment of the Arcane Council to monitor his growth was also commended."

"I am sure, that the legendary Lady Marris is more than capable of the task..."

The mayor leaned forward, his eyes glinting with curiosity.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"I must admit, that boy really surprises me with his extraordinary talents."

"The folks at the Gear Academy are doing their best."

"With the collaboration between the town and the Defense Ministry, his rapid development clearly surprised everyone."

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"However... "

Laksmana Bujang took a moment to gather his thoughts before continuing the conversation with Mayor Rachmat. He felt it was important to share the Sultan's order regarding Zanno's future.

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"Mayor Rachmat, I must inform you that Sultan Areef has recently decreed that Zanno is to be relocated to the capital."

"The Sultan believes that Zanno's talents need to be nurtured in a more controlled environment, where he can receive specialized training and guidance from the most accomplished wizards and scholars in Star Groove."

"This is the scroll."

"The royal decree, inscribed with the royal mark of the Sultan himself."

Laksmana Bujang passed the scroll to Mayor Rachmat, his eyes filled with gravity in a split second. The mayor's expression shifted, a mix of surprise and concern crossing his face.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"Move Zanno to the capital?"

"But Cardinal Peaks has been his home for years, and he has become an integral part of our community."

"His presence has inspired young minds and sparked innovation here."

"Is there no way to persuade the Sultan to reconsider?"

Laksmana empathized with the mayor's concerns and understood the impact Zanno had on Cardinal Peaks.

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"I understand your sentiments, Mayor Rachmat."

"The Sultan's decision was not made lightly."

"He believes that Zanno's potential is too great to be confined to a single town, and the resources available in the capital would provide him with unparalleled opportunities for growth."

"However, I am here to discuss this matter with you and explore possible solutions that could satisfy both the Sultan's wishes and the needs of Cardinal Peaks."

Mayor Rachmat leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. He understood the importance of nurturing the talent and providing the best opportunities for Zanno. However, he also recognized the invaluable contributions Zanno had made to the community of Cardinal Peaks.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"I appreciate your willingness to find a solution, Laksmana Bujang."

"Zanno's departure would certainly leave a void in Cardinal Peaks."

"The recent discoveries regarding spirit magic were only made possible with the kid's help."

"Without him, Cardinal Peaks wouldn't be where we are today."

Laksmana Bujang nodded, listening keenly to where Mayor Rachmat was going with his statements.

"But I believe, I am not in any position to make the decision."

"I think... We should ask Zanno himself."

Laksmana Bujang looked at Mayor Rachmat with a thoughtful expression, considering the mayor's proposal. He understood the importance of involving Zanno in the decision-making process regarding his own future. It was crucial to respect Zanno's wishes and ensure that he had a say in the path he would take.

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"You're right, Mayor Rachmat."

"Ultimately, the decision should lie with Zanno himself."

"It is his journey, his talents, and his future that we are discussing."

"We should give him the opportunity to express his desires and aspirations."

Mayor Rachmat nodded in agreement, appreciating the Laksmana's understanding.

「 Mayor Rachmat 」

"Indeed, Laksmana."

"I will let his father know of this right away!"

「 Laksmana Bujang 」

"Thank you, Mayor Rachmat."

With a shared understanding and a commitment to include Zanno in the decision-making process, Mayor Rachmat and Laksmana Bujang continued their discussion, eager to find the best solution regarding the matter at hand. One that would benefit both Zanno and the people of the Qeddah Sultanate, be it either in Cardinal Peaks or in Star Groove. They understood the significance of Zanno's involvement and were determined to create a supportive and collaborative environment for his future endeavors.