The World Greatest Magician Is A Fraud

Before the arrival of Luke, Gareth, and Anastasia in the meeting hall, Mayor Kingsley and Sir Carrick had already delved into the details of the recent monster purge. They reviewed the reports, discussed strategies, and analysed the outcomes of their efforts. As soon as Gareth entered, Mayor Kingsley turned his attention to him, asking for his firsthand testimony about the events. Gareth recounted his experiences, providing additional insights into the tactics used and the effectiveness of their actions.

With the formalities concluded, Mayor Kingsley shifted to a more personal conversation.

"Tell me, Gareth, how was the knight training in Virencia? How is Saint Cynthia faring? How has everything been in Virencia?" His questions conveyed genuine interest, reflecting the bond between them.

Gareth responded earnestly, sharing stories of his training, Saint Cynthia's condition, and travel experiences. It was clear that Mayor Kingsley cared deeply about Gareth's well-being and progress.

During this exchange, Sir Carrick approached Luke, who stood a little apart from the others.

"I owe you an apology, Luke," Sir Carrick began, his voice low. Luke's curiosity was piqued.

"For what?" he asked, though he could sense the gravity in Carrick's tone.

"I had to inform Mayor Kingsley about your involvement in the monster purge," Sir Carrick explained. "As the leader of the knights, I cannot withhold such crucial information from him. He's a perceptive man and would question the efficiency of our methods."

Luke nodded, understanding the necessity but feeling a pang of apprehension.

"I see. But what did you tell him exactly?"

"I managed to conceal your identity as a mage for now. I told him that your knowledge came from your travels and experiences. However, Mayor Kingsley is shrewd, and he will be watching closely. You need to win his trust if you want to maintain your current position here," Sir Carrick continued.

This revelation left Luke wary. He realized that his comfortable life in Purewood hinged on gaining Mayor Kingsley's approval. As the conversation between Gareth and the mayor continued in the background, Luke's mind raced with thoughts of how to secure his place. He understood the importance of discretion and the need to demonstrate his value without revealing too much.

The meeting room, filled with the soft murmur of voices, felt charged with unspoken tension. Luke's eyes flickered over to Mayor Kingsley, who was now smiling warmly at Gareth's anecdotes. Despite the warmth, Luke knew that beneath that exterior lay a mind constantly evaluating and assessing those around him. He had to tread carefully and prove himself indispensable without arousing suspicion.

As the discussion in the room continued, Luke resolved to approach Mayor Kingsley with caution, hoping to show his worth in keeping his secrets intact. The stakes were high, and the path ahead uncertain, but Luke was determined to navigate it with the same skill and ingenuity that had brought him this far.

Just then, the door to the meeting room opened after a soft knock. A woman dressed similarly to Anastasia stepped in, her presence commanding immediate attention. She called out.

"Anastasia," her voice was gentle yet firm.

It was clear she was Anastasia's mother and Mayor Kingsley's wife.

"Lady Milena," Sir Carrick greeted her warmly.

Lady Milena nodded in acknowledgement and then turned to her daughter.

"Anastasia, I need your help with something," she said, her tone indicating a matter of some urgency. Anastasia bid farewell to everyone in the room, casting a lingering glance at Gareth before exiting with her mother.

With the women gone, the atmosphere shifted, leaving only the men in the room. Mayor Kingsley and Gareth concluded their conversation, and Sir Carrick decided it was time to leave the mayor to his own devices.

"Gareth, Luke, it's time to go," he said, preparing to depart.

However, Mayor Kingsley interrupted.

"Luke, could you stay behind for a moment? I would like to have a personal word with you." Luke's heart skipped a beat, but he nodded, agreeing to stay. As Sir Carrick and Gareth left, Gareth managed to whisper.

"Just be true, Luke."

Now alone with Mayor Kingsley in the meeting room, the atmosphere grew more intense. Mayor Kingsley gestured for Luke to sit closer. Luke complied, moving to a chair beside the mayor. Mayor Kingsley began with praise.

"I must commend you, Luke, for your assistance in the recent purge. Your help was invaluable."

"It was within my power to help, so I did," Luke responded modestly,

Mayor Kingsley then scanned Luke from head to toe, his sharp eyes taking in every detail.

"People say you are a traveller who lost his memory and decided to start anew in Purewood. But I find it curious, Luke, how you managed to discover the hidden weaknesses of these monsters. For years, people have fought them without uncovering such insights. How did you come by this knowledge?"

Luke felt the weight of Mayor Kingsley's gaze. He knew this was the moment that he must not lie. He needed to tread carefully, balancing honesty with the need to protect his secrets.

"I have travelled extensively before losing my memory," Luke began, choosing his words carefully. "During my travels, I encountered various scholars and hunters. They shared their knowledge with me, and I retained some of it despite my memory loss. When I saw the monsters here, something clicked, and I remembered those details."

Mayor Kingsley listened intently, his expression unreadable.

"It's quite remarkable," he said finally. "Knowledge like that doesn't just come to anyone. You must have had quite an extraordinary past, Luke."

Luke nodded, feeling the mayor's scrutiny.

"I believe so, though much of it remains a mystery to me."

Mayor Kingsley leaned back in his chair, his eyes still fixed on Luke.

"Purewood is a small city, and secrets don't stay hidden for long. But I believe you are here for a reason. Your presence and your knowledge have been a boon to us. However, I must ask you to stay vigilant. Some might not be as understanding or as forgiving."

Luke understood the warning. He needed to continue proving his worth while keeping his past, and the true source of his knowledge, as concealed as possible.

"I appreciate your understanding, Mayor Kingsley. I will do my best to continue being of service to Purewood."

"Very well, Luke. You may go. And remember, if you need anything, you can come to me," Mayor Kingsley nodded, seemingly satisfied for now.

Luke stood up, feeling a mixture of relief and apprehension. He had navigated this conversation successfully, but he knew that maintaining his cover would require constant vigilance and careful manoeuvring. As he left the meeting room, he couldn't shake the feeling that Mayor Kingsley would continue to watch him closely.

As Luke exited the meeting room, the tension in his shoulders began to ease. The conversation with Mayor Kingsley had been intense, but he had managed to navigate it without revealing too much. The hallways of the castle, lined with tapestries and portraits of past rulers, felt both imposing and comforting. Luke let his eyes wander over the ornate details, a brief distraction from the weight of his thoughts.

He found Gareth and Sir Carrick waiting for him just outside the room. Gareth raised an eyebrow, silently asking how it went. Luke gave a slight nod, indicating that things had gone as well as could be expected.

"Let's head back," Sir Carrick suggested, and they made their way out of the castle. The walk back was quiet, the three men lost in their thoughts. Luke's mind raced with the implications of his conversation with Mayor Kingsley. He knew he had to be more careful than ever.

Once they were back in the barracks, Gareth pulled Luke aside.

"What did Mayor Kingsley want to talk to you about?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

"He wanted to know how I knew about the monsters' weaknesses," Luke replied. "I told him a version of the truth—that I had picked up the knowledge from various scholars and hunters during my travels before I lost my memory."

"That was a good answer. But be careful, Luke. Mayor Kingsley is sharp, and he will keep an eye on you," Gareth nodded slowly.

"I know," Luke said. "I'll be careful."

With that, they parted ways, Gareth heading back to his duties and Luke deciding to take a walk around the city. He needed to clear his mind and think about his next steps. As he strolled through the bustling streets of Purewood, he observed the daily life of its inhabitants. Children played in the alleys, merchants shouted their wares, and people went about their business with a sense of normalcy that Luke found comforting.

His steps eventually led him to the edge of the city, where he could see the fields stretching out towards the horizon. The sight reminded him of his purpose—to find a way to Virencia and uncover the truth about his past. But for now, he had to remain in Purewood, treading carefully and ensuring his secrets stayed hidden.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, Luke turned back towards the city. He felt a renewed sense of determination. He would continue to help the people of Purewood, building trust and securing his place in the community. And when the time was right, he would make his way to Virencia, armed with the knowledge and experience he had gained.

Back at the cathedral, Luke found Sister Maria preparing for the evening meal. He offered to help, and together they worked in companionable silence. The simple, repetitive tasks of chopping vegetables and stirring pots helped to calm his mind.

As they finished, Sister Maria looked at Luke with a warm smile.

"You've become an important part of our little community, Luke. We're lucky to have you."

"Thank you, Sister," Luke replied, feeling a sense of belonging that he hadn't expected to find. "I'm lucky to be here."

The evening meal was a lively affair, with the children chattering and laughing, the worries of the day momentarily forgotten. Luke joined in, sharing stories and performing a few simple magic tricks, enjoying the joy and wonder on the children's faces.

As the night deepened and the children were sent off to bed, Luke found himself alone in the quiet of the cathedral. He reflected on the day, the challenges he had faced, and the small victories he had won. He knew the road ahead would be difficult, but he also knew he wasn't alone. For now, he had a place and a purpose in Purewood, and that was enough.

With a final glance at the peaceful surroundings, Luke made his way to his bed, determined to face whatever challenges tomorrow might bring.