When Sili arrived at Rock Town under the identity of a guest, Giant Eagle Academy had already changed beyond recognition.
Inside the wooden fences, vegetable plots and wheat fields lay everywhere. None were large, and they looked a little haphazard.
Yet all kinds of plants had been planted along the paths. After several spring rains, the babbling stream surrounding the academy had become ever swifter and more beautiful.
There was no longer the slightest chill in the air. Pale green branches and leaves spread out, dotted with blooming flowers.
The instructor assigned to accompany him was a Level-Six Druid. Gesturing around, he said, "Mr. Sili, these are our academy's private plots. Every student may apply for one and plant whatever they wish, gaining practical experience."
Sili nodded. He could sense that beneath the apparent disorder of these little plots lay a certain order.
"And these?" He was referring to the flowers and trees beside the path.
"These are permanent vegetation. Once planted here, they must be properly tended. Of course, instructors may prune or add to them as circumstances require."
Sili nodded and walked onward.
"This is our academy dining hall. It has two floors. Downstairs serves set meals. The academy uses a fixed-meal system: every portion is identical, and the menu changes every three days. No alcohol is provided. One portion is free; from the second portion onward, you must pay. Students, instructors, and guests all receive one free meal." The instructor continued, "If you find it too plain, you can go upstairs and order dishes yourself. The academy will not foot the bill—not even for the principal. Even the Baron who came to inspect the academy last time had to do the same."
Sili found this somewhat surprising, but said nothing.
"Look, those are students being sent here.