Chapter 14: Arrival in Vulx
The particles of light began to swirl and converge, gradually forming the silhouette of a man. Slowly, the radiant energy condensed, folding in on itself until it solidified into flesh and bone. Malone’s body took shape, fully restored in the material world.
Above him, the sky loomed dark and oppressive. Thick clouds smothered the moonlight, casting the land in a bleak, gray haze.
In the distance, a large weathered sign stood beside a poorly guarded gate. Behind it rose a perimeter of towering wooden walls, reinforced with rust-stained metal plates, an uneven attempt at a fortress, half-assed but functional.
The faded letters on the sign read: Welcome to Vulx City.
Gripping the hilt of his sword, Malone trudged forward, finally making up his mind.
"Hmph... I can finally stop at Cinnia’s Tavern. About time I got some damn rest."
He glanced at his left hand.
"This body should have it... the Lukros Mark."
Grabbing his wrist, Malone rolled up the sleeve of his coat to reveal his forearm.
Etched into his skin in glowing red was a familiar symbol: a crescent moon pierced by a sleek, elegant needle.
The mark itself pulsed faintly with magic.