(XIII) Kroscester

"It'd be much faster if there was a teleportation array in Othniel..." Leon sighed, staring out of the carriage's window. Fields of cultivated soil expanded as far as the eyes could see while men worked in them.

They had been on the road for two days, traversing down the mountain path away from Othniel and through a large forest at the foot of the mountain range.

Nothing of note had occurred during the journey beside the random highwayman being caught skulking around their camp one night. James quickly grabbed him before he could even get a whiff of riches to steal.

They were nearing their destination: Kroscester, a trade hub for the Free Alliance of Man with a teleportation array linked to Treuross, where Leon would undertake the Ascension Ceremony to receive his class and then participate in the Entrance Tournament for the Grand Exvius Academy.

The carriage drove into the city, passing by many houses that lined the streets with neatly decorated lawns. But it was the large marketplace that caught their attention, with its many stalls and counters selling everything the continent had to offer. The air was filled with the sounds of haggling and the scents of exotic spices.

A massive and beautiful temple, its spires piercing the sky, dominated the cityscape. It loomed over the hundreds of buildings within the city, a testament to the grandeur of Kroscester. Leon stood, leaning out of the carriage's window, unable to tear his eyes away.

"No matter how many times I see Kroscester, I'm always captivated by its beauty..." He said, his eyes sparkling as he gazed at the pristine whitewashed buildings and intricately designed cobblestone streets, a sight that never failed to captivate him.

"Of course, it's beautiful!" Maria chuckled as she rode her Dragokin beside him, "Not many settlements in the entire continent can compete with such a large amount of trade."

"Isn't it awesome?" James asked, smiling as he turned in his saddle, "Nowhere can you find as much money passing hands as you can here!"

"It is indeed incredible," Leon replied, returning to the carriage. He thought, 'Kroscester is the wealthiest city on the continent, but it still can't even hold a candle to Treuross' beauty.'

"We're here!" The coachman shouted as the carriage stopped next to a massive building. He hopped off and walked over to the door, opening it for the young Lord.

Leon departed the carriage carrying Bella in his arms as his four vassals dismounted their mounts. They followed him into the building while the servants and maids began unloading and tending to the animals.

Ever the thoughtful brother, Alec had spared no expense in reserving the most exquisite lodging for his youngest brother. He had meticulously planned with the rulers of each city to host grand parties in Leon's honor, a testament to his status and the respect he commanded.

They entered a grand entrance with dozens of doors leading in different directions, luxurious decorations, and massive windows letting in sunlight. A staircase wrapped around the room, leading up both sides, with a balcony overhead. The scent of fresh flowers and the soft sound of music filled the air.

"Greetings!" A woman exclaimed, rushing over as she bowed, greeting the group, "You must be Lord Leon! It is our honor to host you for the evening!"

"Thank you." Leon replied, bowing slightly as he stared her in the eyes, "We're excited to be here. We've been on the road for a while and are ready to rest."

"Kroscester is an excellent city, Milord, and you'll not find a finer establishment." As the servants entered carrying the luggage, she said, "Please, let me show you to your quarters."

She led the group up the stairs to the second landing; the entire floor was reserved for him and his party. Leon's room was massive. A giant bed sat against a wall with a fireplace opposite of it, a balcony facing the church, and expensive finery covering every inch of the room.

The sun had begun setting by the time the servants had unloaded everything, while the maids worked with the establishment's staff to prepare a light meal for everyone before they departed for the party.

Leon and his vassals had bathed and were assisted by the servants as they were dressed in elegant regalia. He exited his room and was greeted by his companions.

Mikaru and James were dressed in fine suits with an overcoat. Their long hair was pulled back into ponytails, and their blades were on their hips. Daveed had his large beard neatly brushed and braided, and his axes were on his back, attached to the pauldrons on his shoulders over his suit.

"I can't do this!" Maria grumbled, walking out with her long red hair in pigtails, curled with ribbons on both sides of her head and a bow around her neck. She had a beautiful red dress with white lace underneath and gorgeous white lace trim looping around the hem of the dress.

Her face was flushed with a mix of embarrassment and annoyance, adding to her charm.

"You..." Leon stared at her, blushing, speechless. He thought she looked like a princess but was too embarrassed to say it aloud. Bella walked out beside him, her fur glistening after her fresh cleaning. A bow was tied around her neck, and she meowed loudly.

He was dressed in red pants with black boots that covered his shins, a black vest with gold buttons climbing up the middle, and a white tie tucked underneath, with a massive ruby pinned to the knot.

His coat was white with a red interior and flared collar, attached by a golden chain to a cape that draped over his left arm, concealing his sword at his waist.

"Come now." Leon declared, turning as he descended the stairs, "If we delay any longer, we'll be late."

The men silently followed their Lord while Maria grumbled but chased after them. A carriage sat outside as all five entered before it drove toward the church.

The massive marble wall, its intricate carvings, and towering height, a testament to the city's grandeur, rose higher as they approached. After the guards confirmed their invitations, they passed through an armed gate.

The stagecoach opened the door, and they exited to a beautifully designed courtyard, the sound of their footsteps echoing against the marble floor.

Dozens of patrons stood around chatting while drinking expensive wine out of crystal glasses. Leon and his vassals ignored the wandering eyes and hushed whispers, as Leon's eyes always managed to give away his identity.