The sheer scale of Luxia became more apparent as they drew closer.
Towering white walls, taller than any Lila had seen, stretched as far as the eye could see, punctuated by numerous watchtowers flying the royal banner – a golden lion on a field of blue.
The main road leading to the city gates was wide and paved with smooth, grey flagstones, already bustling with a steady stream of traffic: merchant caravans laden with goods, nobles in ornate carriages, farmers with carts piled high with produce, and travelers on foot.
"Wow," Lila breathed, her eyes wide with awe. "Elowen could fit into just one of these gatehouses."
Elara, despite her weariness and the crimson marks still visible on her skin, looked around with a mixture of apprehension and familiarity. "Well, it is the capital of the kingdom. Papa and I only ever stayed in the outer merchant districts. The inner districts are even more luxurious."
