Chapter 35: Learning to Live Again
After what felt like an eternity of walking, Velren finally stood before the towering gates of Elyndra once more.
But something about them felt... off.
It wasn't as if the gates had changed. The massive, reinforced archway stood just as imposing as before, along with its intricate engravings that were glistening under the midday sun. The guards stationed at the entrance wore the same silver-plated armor with their unreadable expressions. The city itself still buzzed with life, and the air was filled with the chatter of merchants and travelers.
And yet, the feeling was different.
Velren frowned slightly, sweeping his gaze across the streets beyond the entrance. The buildings here were taller, more lavishly built, and the roads seemed busier—more structured, in a way. This part of the city somehow felt... refined.
"Good eyes," Gramps' voice pulled him from his thoughts.
Velren turned, his questioning gaze was met with a knowing smirk from the old man.
"When you first came here, we entered from the Western Gate—the Artisan District. That area's mainly filled with blacksmiths, tailors, alchemists, and the like. It's where most of the kingdom's craftsmen operate, providing everything from enchanted weapons to high-quality garments."
Gramps gestured around them.
"But this? This is the Southern Gate—also known as the Commercial District. The lifeblood of Elyndra's economy. Merchants from across the continent gather here, selling rare goods, artifacts, and exotic wares. If you ever need something, be it potions, books, or even—gods forbid—fashionable clothes, this is where you'll find it."
Velren took another glance around. Now that he thought about it, the people here did look different. Wealthier. More put-together. Nobles, traders, and scholars walked the streets, some engaged in quiet discussions while others inspected goods displayed in elegant storefronts.