The towering walls of Astralis loomed over them, imposing and unyielding. Constructed from blackstone and reinforced with magic, they were a testament to the empire's power. Guard towers stood at regular intervals, manned by sentries clad in silver armor bearing the crest of the imperial family.
The entrance was bustling with travelers—merchants with laden carts, adventurers seeking work, and nobles in ornate carriages. A long line stretched from the city gates, where armored guards checked identification papers and searched for signs of trouble.
Seraphina's eyes narrowed. "Tighter security than expected."
Rei let out a slow whistle. "Yeah… They're really cracking down. Either they got wind of something, or someone important's in town."
Leon silently analyzed the situation. Getting into the city wouldn't be easy. If they tried to walk through the gates without proper documents, they'd draw attention. And after the Blackfang Syndicate's pursuit, they couldn't afford that.
Seraphina glanced at Rei. "You said you had ways in."
Rei smirked. "Oh, I do. But I need to know—are we going in quietly or boldly?"
Seraphina didn't hesitate. "Quietly."
"Figured as much." Rei shifted Leon in her arms and motioned for them to follow. "I know a smuggler's route. It's risky, but it avoids the main checkpoint."
Leon mentally sighed. Of course she had a smuggler's route.
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Rei led them away from the main road, skirting the city's outer perimeter. The landscape changed as they approached the eastern side, where a section of the wall was obscured by thick vegetation. Unlike the front gate, which was polished and guarded, this side showed signs of age—cracks in the stone, patches of moss creeping over the surface.
Stopping before a seemingly unremarkable section of the wall, Rei crouched and ran her fingers along the base.
"Ah, here we go." She grinned, pressing against a loose stone. A faint click sounded before a small, hidden passage revealed itself.
Seraphina raised an eyebrow. "A smuggler's tunnel?"
Rei winked. "I have my connections."
Leon wasn't sure if he should be impressed or concerned.
The tunnel was narrow, barely wide enough for a grown adult to pass through comfortably. It was dark, the air thick with damp earth and the scent of stale air.
Seraphina entered first, dagger in hand, followed by Rei carrying Leon.
They moved quickly, navigating through the winding passage. At the far end, a rusted iron grate blocked their path.
Rei crouched again, reaching into a hidden compartment in her coat. She produced a small, rune-inscribed key and inserted it into the lock. The magic-infused mechanism clicked open, and the grate creaked as she pushed it aside.
On the other side was an alleyway within the city.
They had made it.
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The city of Astralis was alive with energy. Towering buildings of polished stone lined the streets, their facades decorated with banners bearing noble crests. Crowds of people moved through the avenues, the scent of freshly baked bread and spiced meats mingling with the crisp morning air.
Despite the beauty, Leon could sense the tension beneath the surface. Guards patrolled in larger numbers than usual, their watchful eyes scanning the populace.
Rei exhaled in relief. "Well, that was easier than I expected."
Seraphina remained on edge. "We can't relax yet. We need to find a safe place to stay."
Rei smirked. "I might know a place."
Leon wasn't surprised.
The real game had begun.