Arian looked around with wide-eyed wonder, having no idea what to expect — but he certainly hadn't expected darkness. Yet it wasn't gloomy. The entire village felt enchanting, like nighttime preserved inside a dream. Soft bioluminescent paint glimmered on people's arms and cheeks, glowing trails that helped everyone move around without bumping into each other.
Buildings weren't just built — they grew. Thick trees, intertwining trunks, and sweeping vines formed archways and roofs, creating a natural canopy. Arian's breath hitched. It felt like the whole place was alive.
Caius kept walking, as brisk as ever, and Arian followed close behind, practically spinning in circles to see everything. Eventually, Caius led him to a boutique where the interior was just as mystical — fabrics hanging like leaves, gold threads catching the faint glow.
Before Arian even wrapped his head around it, Caius had picked out clothes for him: black, deep green, and hints of gold. Very camo, Arian thought.
