The guard eyed me suspiciously as he scanned me from head to toe. His gaze lingered on the heavy packs slung over my shoulders and the sturdy, well-worn boots on my feet. I stood still, allowing him to finish his scrutiny. It was a necessary inconvenience. The city of Aurelion, capital of the Drakhan Earldom, had a reputation for its strict entry protocols, especially in these troubled times.
Once he was satisfied, he stepped aside and waved me through. "Welcome to Aurelion," he said gruffly, his eyes already moving to the next person in line. I offered a curt nod in response and stepped into the city.
