The streets of Mystveil were already bustling when Lunara and I stepped outside. The morning sunlight bathed the cobblestone roads in a warm glow, and the scent of fresh bread from nearby bakeries mingled with the faint tang of iron from blacksmiths' forges. Merchants were already hawking their wares, their voices loud and energetic as they competed for the attention of passing townsfolk and adventurers alike.
A pair of children ran past us, one waving a wooden sword and the other holding a makeshift shield. They laughed as they mimicked a knight's duel, their enthusiasm drawing a faint smile from me. It was a stark contrast to the bloodshed we'd faced in the wilds, but it reminded me of what made all this worth it.
"This place is alive as always," I murmured, mostly to myself.
Lunara's sapphire eyes flicked to me, her expression as calm as ever.
"It is... different," she replied.
"Noisy. Crowded. But not unpleasant."
