The Council
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And Viktor.
"Someone is living at the cursed farm," Jin said without preamble. "A woman named Wren. She arrived approximately two days ago." The pun bread was passed around to the members, who took turns sampling it with evident pleasure.
“Needs some oil and vinegar for dipping, but what a lovely crisp crust,” one woman whispered to another.
Councilor Chen, the eldest, frowned. "Living? Or camping temporarily before she realizes her mistake?"
"Living. She has a house and multiple trees, with a functioning garden." Jin paused. "The crops are... unusual."
"Unusual how?" This from Councilor Yuki, who managed the town's agricultural concerns.
“Aside from the bread tree, of course. Quite remarkable, that.” He nibbled on his bread, thoughtfully analyzing the flavor to see if he could detect a trace of plant.
The general consensus was that it tasted like excellent sourdough.
Kenji spoke up. "They're not normal crops. She has trees that produce clothes, too." He blushed, remembering the encounter. “And shoes,” he added quickly, slightly changing the subject.
The council members stared.
"She calls them pun plants," Jin said. "Breadfruit grows bread. She has other trees—soap, clothing, and various goods. All functional."
Viktor's expression hadn't changed, but Jin saw his hands tighten slightly on the table. "On the cursed farm. Where nothing grows."
"Where normal crops don't grow," Jin corrected. "Whatever these are, they're thriving."
"Her shield was damaged," Kenji added. "We assisted her in harvesting blue bulbs this morning. She had several... creatures protecting her. They called them dandelions. Plant-animal hybrids that can fight."
"Fight?" Councilor Mikhail, head of town defense, leaned forward. "Effectively?"
"They killed a monster last night," Jin said. "And drove off another this morning."
The council exchanged glances.
Viktor spoke for the first time. "This woman. Where did she come from?"
"She didn't say. But she's young, unprepared for the dangers, and clearly has no idea about the farm's history." Jin met Viktor's gaze steadily. "She needs guidance. Introduction to the merchants. Protection while she learns."
"Protection," Viktor repeated softly. "Or supervision?"
"She's a citizen living in our territory," Jin said. "That makes her our responsibility."
Councilor Chen nodded slowly. "The Marshall is correct. We should extend proper welcome. Help her integrate." She looked at Jin. "You'll handle the introduction?"
"I offered to introduce her to the traders when she's ready to visit town. She'll send word through the squirrel network."
"The squirrels know?" Councilor Yuki asked.
"They know everything," Kenji said. "By now, half the town probably knows."
That was true. Jin had already seen clusters of people talking as they rode through. Speculating. Wondering.
Viktor stood smoothly. "Fascinating. If the council has no further questions, I have business to attend to." He inclined his head politely. "Marshall. Lieutenant. Council members." He left without waiting for dismissal.
Councilor Mikhail watched him go. "He's been trying to acquire that property for years."
"I'm aware," Jin said.
"And now someone's made it productive." Councilor Chen's expression was thoughtful. "Very productive, from the sound of it."
"She needs allies," Councilor Yuki said quietly. "Before Viktor decides she needs... guidance."
Jin nodded. That was exactly what he was thinking.
"I'll keep close watch," he said. "Make sure she stays safe."
Councilor Chen smiled slightly. "I'm sure you will, Marshall."