It took Cassian and his team only two days to reach Magisteria City. The war had reached this far as well—but not with the same intensity as in the Karmen Earldom. Here, it was quieter on the surface: scattered skirmishes, assassination attempts, infiltration rumors. Enough to keep everyone tense.
Security was tighter. People were hoarding rations, preparing for a war no one knew would last months or years.
Yet business was booming.
Especially anything tied to war. Weapon shops were popping up everywhere, magic stores alongside them, selling charms, potions, enchanted gear—anything that promised survival. Gold was flowing, fear driving it.
"I'm going to look for Cassandra," Lumine said suddenly, worry clear on her face. She didn't wait for a reply. "I'll meet you all tomorrow."
Before anyone could respond, she was already gone, disappearing into the crowded streets in search of her sister.
