Cassian and Cassandra stood in a long line of people waiting to pass through an enormous gate. The structure, weathered and ancient, bore clear signs of deterioration, with cracks and crumbling edges that gave the impression it could collapse at any moment. Yet, it stood firm, even supporting guards stationed on its upper sections. Cassian could sense concentrated mana emanating from the gate, likely the work of spells designed to keep it intact. This gate was a renowned tourist attraction in the city, a ruin in the Andharta Kingdom's old-world island, earldom.
Standing behind an annoyed-looking Cassandra, who seemed utterly exhausted, Cassian stretched and said with a faint smile, "My body feels really sore for some reason."
Cassandra turned to him, her disbelief evident. "You're sore?" she repeated, her tone dripping with incredulity. "And for some reason?"