However, Ayla, who appeared to have more to say, suddenly became silent for a brief moment before returning her attention to the sky, relishing the sight of birds soaring above her. It was evident that she had no plans to say anything more or engage in conversation during the rest of the journey.
Marius casually shrugged and continued to focus ahead, deciding not to pressure her for further information. However, he couldn't forget the slight gleam in her eyes, which confirmed that she was being kept hidden away—her true self.
Now, he really wanted to get rid of that annoying collar.
.
.
.
In what felt like mere moments, they found themselves on the outskirts of the city of Aetheria.
In contrast to the small village of Sancti Fields, these walls were towering structures constructed entirely of iron. Guards patrolled the top, while below, there was a long queue divided into two lines—one for carriages and the other for foot.
People were constantly coming and going, and a group of guards in shining armor, wielding swords that emitted a faint glow, diligently screened every individual and maintained a highly strict process.
"I'm curious as to why their armor and weapons have such a radiant shine." Marius whispered to himself, as he took way the binoculars from his eyes.
Rubbing his chin, believing that it was likely enchanted by magic, which further solidified the notion that this place was much more advanced compared to the village they had recently left.
"The closer you get to the Royal Capital, you will notice that the places become more developed." As Ayla got up to stretch, she casually mentioned some information.
"Well, I'm not shocked there," Marius said, placing down the binoculars, and heading to the rear and taking the water jug to quench his thirst and look for snacks.
After halting the horse, he knew it would be wise to clean the entire carriage to make it more presentable prior to entering. He wanted to avoid arousing suspicion in the guards regarding its ownership.
"Though won't we need to identify ourselves?" Marius, as he was drinking some water, his eyes landed upon the goddess who had started tidying up the carriage.
Having seen the strict security measures, he understood that impersonating a noble was out of the question. If he was exposed, his fate would be sealed - he would be killed.
"Indeed, we don't have any identification on us," Ayla muttered, "but we could use our systems—" She was interrupted before she could continue.
"You already know that would be stupid. The moment they see my class, they'll kill me," Marius brought up, still aware of the hatred these people would have toward him.
Ayla rested her finger beneath her chin, pausing for a few moments to ponder. "But they'll also see your race—Hero? Anyone who is a hero will not face any doubts, regardless of their class."
Marius shook his head as he placed the water jug down. "I want to avoid being noticed. If everyone found out that I'm a hero, the news would spread like wildfire. Also, I doubt they'll see reason, anyway."
The animosity in the eyes of those guards in the small village was unmistakable, and even the onlookers of the commoners watched with fear.
What would be the difference here? The Church of the Goddess of Light is likely more highly respected and fervently worshipped closer to the Royal Capital.
It didn't matter if he was a hero, as he still had a dark class. They would cut off his head without batting an eye.
"You know, I'm kinda blaming you here, Ayla…" Marius sighed. Did she really have to make these people hold such hatred toward those with a dark class?
Ayla paused her cleaning and gave a slight shake of her head.
"I never taught this. I taught to love all, to help the needy, to show compassion to the suffering, to uphold justice and righteousness, to walk humbly under my eyes, and to seek peace and unity among all. For everybody to embrace the light."
As Marius hung up items without looking at the goddess, muttered under his breath, "clearly you didn't do a very good job now, did you? "
Hearing this, Ayla didn't argue and silently resumed cleaning—a moment of sadness in her golden eyes went unnoticed.
Once Marius finished cleaning and organizing everything, he grabbed a small bag of peanuts and got out of the carriage to stretch his legs and take off his helmet to take a breather and eat.
Having had come from the trail, they were on a hill, with woods all around them. There was not a single person near them.
Hidden from view, as everyone opts for the wider and more polished roads outside of Aetheria's grand steel gate which was adorned with a lion motif.
Though, before he took off his helmet, Marius asked, "nobody is watching, right?" He wanted to make sure. He felt somewhat paranoid, wondering if anyone on the walls was watching him.
Ayla took another glance around. "You're fine, hero. There is no one looking in our direction or around us."
Feeling slightly relieved, Marus removed his helmet, sat down on a rock, and began snacking on his peanuts, all the while thinking of a way to get into the city.
Understanding, he needed to register an adventurer; he was aware that it would provide him with identification and freedom from unnecessary scrutiny.
Such as allowing Marius to move more freely and without raising suspicion. This would mean fewer questions and less attention from the authorities.
Moreover, the potential financial rewards and other advantages added to the appeal.
A sudden realization hit Marius, causing him to swiftly stand up and rush towards Ayla, who had just stepped out of the carriage. He grabbed her by the shoulders, slightly shaking her.
"I got a perfect plan!" Marius knew that there were probably coins inside the tiny treasure box inside. They just needed to open it and, after tidying up the whole carriage and organizing everything, they knew exactly where all the keys were.
He released his grip on the goddess's shoulders and quickly jumped back into the carriage.
"What do you intend to do?" Ayla asked, observing as he sifted through the keys and then tossed them aside once he knew they weren't a match.
Marius briefly stopped and cast a quick glance at the goddess, sporting a smirk.
"Isn't it obvious? We're gonna bribe our way in!"