The journey to the city wasn't easy. Along the way, we fought off numerous monsters — goblins (Level 10) and wolves (Level 15). Each fight tested our coordination, stamina, and combat skills. By the time we reached the city gates, we were exhausted but alive.
Samuel and his team moved to the front, discussing strategies quietly among themselves, while the rest of us stayed back, almost like a mob of onlookers.
Hyun Woo decided to approach the front to gather information.
Minji glanced at me, a small smile on her face. "Are you excited?"
I hesitated. "Hmmm… not really."
She tilted her head, curious, but didn't press further. What she didn't know was that the streets, the gates, and the atmosphere of the city felt eerily familiar — like the memories of Arthur and the old empire. Only here, magic and healing existed, unlike in Arthur's memories where only brute force, swords, and shields ruled.
Samuel shouted instructions as Hyun Woo reached the front, getting ready to negotiate with the city guards.
At the start, we were 40 people. Now, after monsters and the journey, only 32 remained.
As we stepped through the city gates, the crowd's attention immediately turned to us. Whispers filled the streets, and people stared as our group moved through the city.
Riku's eyes sparkled. "There might be a guild here… or maybe even a school of magic! I read about places like this before. This is exciting!"
Marco scoffed. "Or maybe there's a demon king here, and we're the only ones left to fight him!"
Riku gave a nervous laugh. "Eeeeh… maybe not that extreme."
Sona giggled quietly, shaking her head.
While we were looking for a place to stay, Xin Yi, Lan, and Luna approached us.
Xin Yi bowed slightly. "Thank you very much for everything. We'll go on our own from here."
Hyun Woo looked concerned. "Are you sure you'll be okay by yourselves?"
Xin Yi nodded confidently. "Yes. I know some people in the other group. We'll be fine."
Hyun Woo exhaled softly. "Alright. Take care."
They slowly left us, disappearing into the busy streets.
After hours of walking through the bustling city, we finally spotted a quiet area on the outskirts — a small farm with a few houses. Cows grazed lazily, and chickens pecked at the ground. It was peaceful, calm… and exactly what we needed.
I let out a long breath. "Finally… a place that doesn't feel like a battlefield."
Marco grinned, rubbing his stomach. "And food! I hope they let us eat something other than berries for once."
Hyun Woo nodded, surveying the area for safety.