Chapter 17: Selina’s Concerns
The evening sun cast long shadows across Sun City as Elias and Selina made their way through its bustling streets. Their stay at the Dark Ruin had been harsh, but thanks to General Genevieve’s assistance in defeating Drakas, they had reached the safety of civilization. The female warrior had not only transported them on her Blazing Phoenix but also provided them with enough Mystic Stones to secure temporary lodging and sustenance.
Now, as they walked through the city’s merchant district, Elias observed the vibrant life radiating from the people around them. Sun City lived up to its name. Even as dusk approached, golden light seemed to emanate from the very stones of its buildings. Merchants hawked their wares, street performers entertained crowds, and the air was thick with the aroma of exotic foods and spices.
Elias led the way with Selina following closely behind as they navigated through the bustling crowd.
"Have you been here before?"
Selina asked timidly, her eyes wide as she took in the sights. She had lived in a village outside Sun City, under the influence of the Sun Kingdom. That was before Drakas came and captured her along with her parents to work in the mines within the Dark Ruin. This was her first time venturing into a city within the Sun Kingdom, let alone Sun City, the kingdom’s populous hub.
Hearing her question, Elias hesitated. The original Elias had indeed visited Sun City in the past, but he chose his words carefully.
"Yes, I’ve been here before, but it’s been a long time."
They soon found a modest inn near the central plaza. The establishment, called the Golden Hearth, appeared clean and respectable. The place was neither too lavish to drain their limited resources nor too shabby to compromise their comfort. Elias chose it because the original Elias had frequented it in the past.
As they approached the reception desk, the innkeeper, a portly man with a well-groomed beard, looked up from his ledger. He smiled, about to greet them, but his eyes widened in recognition as they settled on Elias.
Although he hadn’t seen this person for a long time, and they looked disheveled, as someone who prided himself on having a discerning eye, there was no way he couldn’t recognize a former patron.
"By the Sun Goddess!"