Join the mayor at her table.

As you and Nyllia follow behind the hostess, you lean in closer and whisper a query into Nyllia's ear. "So how exactly did Mittens become the mayor? Did the other guy die in the attack? Honestly, I've realized that I don't really understand the government system here. I thought something called an empire would be closer to a monarchy, especially since it has a queen."

"From what I understand, the previous mayor, Lord Dunnin, was too old and weary to properly step up to what was needed during the attack. His assistant and advisor, Mittens, did such a fantastic job that he personally stepped down afterwards. Now she is the one in charge until an election can be held. Such a thing does not normally happen, but the Empire of Tivera is also not normally put under siege by an army of automatons and cultists. Now Queen Catherine II must vet a selection of candidates, and the people of Avana will vote," she explains.

"So does that mean she might be wanting to use us to boost her reputation or something?" you ask.

"It is not impossible. Though we did slay many monsters together, I do not know her intimately."

"And here we are, sir and madame," says the elf with another bow. "Your waiter will return shortly to add to the order." And with that, she steps back towards her post near the entrance.

Before you can find a seat, Mittens rises from hers.

"Lady Tesgella," says the catfolk. She takes her hand into her own, and places the other on top. "It's good to see you again. You're looking amazing. Even more radiant than usual."

"Thank you, Lady Mittens," Nyllia replies. "I heard you have been rather busy."

"You can say that again." She chuckles and then shifts her attention to you. "And then right before my eyes, the Hero King himself makes an appearance. Kyle Warren, ruler of Castle Phoenix, ex-Demon King, mysterious traveller. Please. Friends, move a seat down if you can to make room for our special guests. I'd like them on both my left and right here at the head of the table. These are no ordinary adventurers after all."

After said seats are cleared, you pull one out and gesture Nyllia to sit.

She giggles as she does.

As you make your way around to the opposite side, Mittens stops you. She takes your hand, and gives it a firm shake.

"It's an honour to finally meet you," she says. "I know what you did for Avana. For Tivera. If I wasn't busy rebuilding the city, I'd have personally come to your home for a visit. But there's a lot to do. And if I'm not careful, I may not even remain as mayor, even after everything. Things are still chaotic after the battle, and I'm sure plenty of people are willing to take advantage, especially that one group of thieves... but forget that for now. Please, sit to my right. Anything you order is on me this evening."

"Well, thanks a lot, Lady Mittens," you say as you scoot the chair back. After straightening your cloak, you sit down across from Nyllia, and glance over to the several catfolk populating the table. They seem interested in your inclusion, though haven't spoken beyond whispers to each other. "I'm not even sure what I should order."

"If you don't wish to flip through the menu, I can offer my recommendation. The glazed pork. It sounds ordinary, but the sauce is a delicacy. I don't know every ingredient, but I know it consists of honey, herbs that only grow far northeast of here, and a hint of green slime. Don't worry. I know when people hear the idea of eating slime they wince, but it's a sauce you'll never forget, and it looks nothing like those little monsters. Order that with some fruits, and have any of the wines on their way already."

"Did you always know so much about cuisine?" asks Nyllia.

Mittens laughs. "I've always been a bit of a foodie, but I learned a lot assisting Lord Dunnin."

"I'll trust your taste buds, Lady Mittens," you say.

"Ah. The wine is coming," the catfolk says. "Then we can return to speaking of important things. It's always easier to discuss business with something to drink. I didn't just invite you to my table to thank you for saving lives, though that was a large part of it. I also wish you to know what's truly happening on the streets of Avana in the wake of the battle, from Mayor to King."