Chapter 60: Strolling the streets
The sheer scale of Luxia became more apparent as they drew closer.
Towering white walls, taller than any Lila had seen, stretched as far as the eye could see, punctuated by numerous watchtowers flying the royal banner – a golden lion on a field of blue.
The main road leading to the city gates was wide and paved with smooth, grey flagstones, already bustling with a steady stream of traffic: merchant caravans laden with goods, nobles in ornate carriages, farmers with carts piled high with produce, and travelers on foot.
"Wow," Lila breathed, her eyes wide with awe. "Elowen could fit into just one of these gatehouses."
Elara, despite her weariness and the crimson marks still visible on her skin, looked around with a mixture of apprehension and familiarity. "Well, it is the capital of the kingdom. Papa and I only ever stayed in the outer merchant districts. The inner districts are even more luxurious."
As they joined the queue of arrivals inching towards the massive, iron-banded city gates, Riku noticed the guards were numerous and heavily armed, their expressions stern and watchful. Every cart and individual was being scrutinized.
"They’re being thorough," Riku observed. "Probably because of the Crimson Creep." Lila whispered, "What do we do if they question Elara about her marks?"
Before Riku could answer, Elara spoke up, her voice surprisingly steady. "Let me talk to them. I know this city a little. And... maybe my sickness will help us."
When their turn came, a grizzled guard captain with a scar across his cheek peered into their modest carriage. "Name and purpose of visit?" he barked.
Elara leaned forward, her small face pale but her eyes direct. "Elara, daughter of Marden, traveling merchant, sir. My father... he fell ill on the road. We seek aid from the healers at the Church of Light. I... I fear I might be catching what he had." She coughed weakly, a genuine tremor in her voice, and gestured to the crimson patches on her arm, which were clearly visible.
The captain’s stern expression softened almost imperceptibly. He’d seen the Crimson Creep firsthand in the city’s poorer quarters. "Another one," he muttered under his breath, then sighed. "The Temple is overwhelmed, girl. But they’re the only ones with any hope of treating this blight." He looked at Riku and Lila. "Are you people with her?"