Watchmen appeared on the walls of the city, their figures patrolling the battlements, scanning the horizon for any sign of trouble. Occasionally, one would halt, squinting into the foggy plains beyond the city's perimeter before hurrying to report to the head of the guard.
As soon as Rynor and his companions approached, the massive gates slowly creaked open. The towering wooden and metal doors swung outward, revealing the path into the city. The guards at the entrance gave a quick salute.
Commander Rynor, we have urgent news, one of the guards said with a slight tremble in his voice. There are hundreds of Distorted gathering on the northern side of the city... Some of them even have mythical beasts with them.
Rynor frowned, but his attention was quickly drawn to the walls themselves.
Wait a minute... Why the hell does the city even have a five-meter wall? Rynor asked, his brow furrowing as he surveyed the impressive structure.
Lian chuckled, stepping forward. Maybe you've got amnesia or you've just been wandering around too long? His grin, however, hinted at deeper concern.
Rynor turned to him, half-smiling. Lian, apparently I didn't hit you hard enough on the way here.
The guard blinked, confused by the exchange, then cleared his throat. Uh, we had quite a few talented people among the refugees, and with the help of magic, we built the wall in just four days.
Rynor shook his head in disbelief. Four days... incredible. He coughed, then added, Tell me, how many people did the scouts manage to save and bring here?
A scrawny young guard, no older than fifteen, stepped forward. Since you've been gone, about 46,000 people have arrived.
Not bad, Rynor muttered under his breath. Then, noticing the guard's confused expression, he quickly added, Never mind. Make sure all the new arrivals are housed together. Give them the books everyone received and send them for training with Kaijil.
Understood, sir.
As Rynor gave his final instructions, he headed toward the city's headquarters, his mind swirling with unease. They shouldn't have grouped up this fast. Something's not right. And this city... I built it far from any populated areas.
Meanwhile, Farris and the group followed a guard named Phamos, who led them through the city streets. The city itself was far more impressive than they had imagined.
The buildings that lined the streets were reminiscent of medieval Europe, but something about them felt... modern. The materials gleamed, standing out starkly against the backdrop of ancient ruins.
This is... odd, Kaldrin whispered, glancing around. These buildings look both ancient and new at the same time.
The guard merely shrugged. Beats me.
They were given a spacious house, though on their way there, they had noticed many people living in tents. Inside, they were greeted by a yawning young man.
Name's Kaijil, he mumbled, rubbing his eyes. I'll be your magic instructor.
He was a young blond guy, around 19, with sharp facial features and dull blue eyes. His clothes — worn-out pants and a torn T-shirt — did little to inspire confidence.
Kaldrin smirked. "Are you sure you're the right guy? You look more like a bum than a teacher."
Watch it, big guy, Kaijil said lazily, opening one eye. See that pile of books? He pointed at a dusty stack of about 24 books near the door. "I've read them all. I can cast spells, I can even fly.
Fly?! Lian muttered, recalling their last encounter.
As Lirianna and Arianna began tidying the house and preparing a meal, the rest of the group sat down, listening to Kaijil. He explained magic as a force flowing through one's veins, like a river coursing through the soul's channels. To master it, one had to meditate, expand these channels, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves.
Six months later, their training was starting to bear fruit. Rynor visited them, observing their progress.
Lirianna, impressive!" he said, clearly surprised. You're almost at my mana level. That's remarkable.
He began assigning each person their next tasks:
Arianna, you'll focus on healing. Your careful and compassionate nature makes you perfect for this.
Kaldrin, for now, leave magic aside. Grab a sword and work on your control and discipline.
Kaldrin frowned. But magic is stronger than swords!
Rynor placed a hand on his shoulder. Agreed. But right now, it's not your path. Learn to calm your heart first.
Meanwhile, Eldric and Linda had been obsessing over alchemy and artifacts. Rynor gave a knowing nod. You've chosen a tough road, but an important one. But to create powerful potions, you'll need ingredients only found on Falorin.
Falorin? they both asked in unison.
A new continent," Rynor replied, shrugging. "Don't worry about it for now. I'll gather what herbs I can from the local mountains, but they're much weaker here.
Thank you, Eldric said gratefully.
Rynor then turned to Lian. "You seem eager for aerial combat. I can teach you how.
Lian rolled his eyes and clapped his hands sarcastically. Wow, yeah, super funny. Actually, I'd rather be an archer. You know, the dream of every kid: striking a heroic pose and saving lives with one swift arrow.
Rynor smirked. So, still a kid at heart?
Shut it, old man.
Rynor handed him a book. Here, this is the 'Eye's Guide.' It covers combining sight with magic and the art of archery.
With a grin, Lian bolted off to dive into the book.
Rynor then faced Farris. "As for you, I'll start you with basic magic. You can also practice swordsmanship.
Farris frowned. But haven't I reached a certain mana level already?
Yes,Rynor said, nodding. "But it's not enough. You'll understand soon enough.