Samuel's group finally reached the towering gates of Chronos, the capital. A constant stream of people — merchants, soldiers, travelers — flowed in and out of the city. The massive white stone walls, weathered by time, gave the city an aura of steady power, almost intimidating. Inside, the city roared with life: merchants shouting, hooves clattering, bells ringing in the distance, children laughing, hammers striking metal.
Helydia came to a halt, scanning the dense crowd.
"We'll need to split up if we want to cover ground."
Samuel nodded.
"Helydia, Kai — find us an inn. Something discreet, but not a complete dump. While you're at it, scout the city center. I want to know where the guard stations are, any temples, marketplaces, plazas — anything worth noting."
Helydia gave a playful slap on Kai's shoulder.
"Lets go !"
Meanwhile, Canon lit another cigarette, looking far too relaxed for the situation.
Samuel turned to him.
"You and I will talk to the locals. I want to know what they know — or think they know — about the Heart of Aethril."
Canon raised an eyebrow.
"Sounds like a walk through tall tales and street-corner nonsense."
"Exactly. That's usually where truth hides."
Before leaving, Samuel looked back at Kai and Helydia.
"If I need you, I'll reach out telepathically. Don't be surprised."
Helydia winked. "You mean like when you talked to Canon without moving your lips?"
Canon groaned. "Still gives me chills just thinking about it."
Samuel didn't answer — just gave them a silent nod as they slipped into the crowd. In moments, Kai and Helydia vanished into the heartbeat of the capital.
Canon took a drag from his cigarette and fell in step beside Samuel.
"So… where do we start, boss? Sketchy artifact vendors or crazy old men talking to pigeons?"
A faint smirk ghosted over Samuel's lips.
"Both."
And with that, the two vanished into the streets of Chronos, eyes sharp, senses open — hunting for even the faintest whisper about the artifact that could tip the balance of the world.