Ravi entered the country of Etheria and asked a nearby travel tower about the cost of travel to the central part of Etheria. Ravi approached the receptionist inside the travel tower.
"Hello sir, good morning. How can I help you?" the receptionist asked.
"I want to travel to the central part of Etheria. What will be the cost?" Ravi inquired.
"It will be about 300 silver coins for fast travel, which will take about one day. The slower option will take about three to four days and costs 125 silver coins," the receptionist explained.
"Okay, then here is the money," Ravi said, handing over the coins.
"Thank you. Go straight and then take the right at the second flight," the receptionist instructed.
In Etheria, travel is done by two mediums: road and air. Ravi chose the air travel option, which is much faster and involves flying over the clouds to the central part of Etheria.
After one day, Ravi and Aadi reached the central part of Etheria.
As the sun began to rise, casting a warm golden glow over the horizon, the small caravan approached the gates of Lumina, the illustrious capital of Etheria. Nestled in his father's arms, the three-day-old baby stirred, as if sensing the grandeur that lay ahead. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of city life awakening.
The towering walls of Lumina, adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering in the early morning light, spoke of a rich history and a promise of safety within. Beyond the gates, the bustling streets unfolded, revealing a city teeming with life and vibrancy. Merchants were setting up their stalls, and the sounds of vendors calling out their wares mingled with the melody of street musicians tuning their instruments.
As they passed through the gates, the baby's father gazed around with a mixture of awe and determination. The broad avenues lined with majestic trees and the elegant architecture of the buildings painted a picture of prosperity and culture. The Great Lumina River, sparkling under the morning sun, wound its way through the heart of the city, its waters reflecting the magnificence of the structures that rose along its banks.
The streets were alive with activity. Humans roamed here and there with their majestic beasts—some led dragons with shimmering scales, while others walked alongside griffins, their wings folded gracefully at their sides. Enchanted creatures of all kinds mingled with the populace, creating a tapestry of fantastical life.
Children played in the squares and parks, their laughter echoing through the air. They chased each other around fountains that spouted streams of sparkling water, and some rode on the backs of small, friendly dragons. The vibrant scene was filled with the joyous energy of youth and the wonder of living in such a magical place.
Entering the Artisan's Quarter, they were greeted by the rich aroma of freshly baked bread and the rhythmic clanging of blacksmiths at their forges. Artisans showcased their magical creations, from enchanted jewelry to beautifully crafted weapons that gleamed with otherworldly light.
"Let's go straight to the Born Tower. I think you must be hungry, right?" Ravi said to Aadi who was sleeping on the arm of Ravi after having his food.
As they stepped into the Born Tower, they were greeted by a warm and inviting waiting lobby. The floor was decorated with colorful mosaics depicting legendary magical scenes, and the air hummed with a gentle aura of enchantment. Comfortable seating areas, with plush cushions and carved wooden chairs, were arranged throughout the space. A friendly receptionist at the desk smiled warmly and offered assistance, directing visitors to their destinations.
Ravi approached the receptionist's table. "I am here by the order of the Great Elder," he stated.
"Yes, the Elder told me about your arrival. Please follow me," the receptionist replied.
They walked to the lift in the center of the Born Tower's lower floor and began their ascent to the topmost part of the tower.
Ascending the lift to the first floor, they entered the Grand Library. This vast yet cozy space was filled with towering bookshelves packed with ancient tomes and scrolls. Soft, magical light filtered through enchanted windows, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for study. Scholars and novice magicians alike sat at large wooden tables, quietly engrossed in their reading, while magical creatures known as Book Sprites flitted around, fetching books and assisting visitors. The library exuded a sense of calm and knowledge, welcoming all who sought to learn and grow in their magical abilities.
Further up, they found the Novice Magicians' Quarters, a bustling floor where young magicians practiced their craft under the guidance of experienced mentors. This floor was filled with the sounds of incantations and the sight of magical experiments, fostering a lively and educational environment. Moving on, they discovered the Portal Room, filled with various doors that transported individuals to different parts of the world of Dracoria, each portal glowing with a unique light and guarded by vigilant sentinels.
Above, the Staff Quarters provided a peaceful retreat for the tower's dedicated staff, with cozy rooms and common areas for relaxation. The most important floor, the Meeting and Judgment Hall, sat at the top. This grand chamber was where crucial decisions were made and high-stakes meetings held. The room was adorned with magnificent tapestries and a large, round table where the most powerful magicians of Etheria convened to deliberate on matters of great importance. The entire tower exuded an air of ancient wisdom and vibrant life, embodying the heart of magical study and practice in Lumina.
The lift stopped at the floor where the meeting room was located. Ravi stepped out and walked to the meeting room. As he approached, the room's large doors opened automatically, and Ravi walked into the room, taking in the impressive sight.