Ward led them away from the food stalls once everyone had eaten their fill. Ragna moved slower than usual, partly from awe, partly from digesting half a tray of fried chicken. Mira walked with her eyes darting everywhere, trying to memorize each strange detail, each unfamiliar device. Lyris stayed quiet, straight-backed, alert—her hunter instincts in conflict with her curiosity.
Albert matched their pace. This time, he kept his hands folded behind him, more like a commanding officer on an inspection than a host giving a tour.
"Stay close," Ward said. "This area is safe, but it's active."
"Active how?" Mira asked.
Ward looked at her. "Meaning things here move. Machines. Cargo. Personnel. If you wander off, something might run you over."
Ragna scoffed. "What kind of person gets run over inside their own home?"
A loud horn blared.
