The path leading deeper into the underground city was smooth beneath their steps, the air cooler but not unwelcoming. Lanterns lined the carved stone walls, a steady glow softening the shadows.
Arthur walked ahead, his posture relaxed but watchful. Seisyll kept a steady pace beside him, hands in his pockets, unreadable as always. Aleks trailed just behind, his gaze sweeping their surroundings with curiosity.
As they neared the entrance, figures stepped into view.
Glaucus foot soldiers, four of them, clad in the dull grays and blues of their uniform. Their boots were caked with mud, their armor damp from the humidity. One of them, the tallest of the group, had a blade resting loosely at his side.
Another, a seafolk standing just behind him, had a few magicules stirring around his hair and body. A mage.
"Stop." The lead soldier commanded, raising a hand. "State your business."
