The Gates of Ardentia

The high walls of Ardentia finally appeared in sight by noon.

Constructed of white stone, the city rose like a beacon against the horizon, its great gates braced with silver runes that glowed softly in the sun. Behind the walls, high spires and domed structures reached toward the heavens.

Aeron breathed a sigh of relief. He had arrived.

At his side, Kaela eyed the city with narrowed eyes. "Haven't been here in a while," she grumbled.

Aeron looked at her. "What do you know about this city?"

Kaela smiled. "Enough to know we won't just walk in."

She was correct. As they walked, a queue of travelers and merchants lined up ahead of the gates, where guards in dark-blue armor inspected papers and arms. The city wasn't merely defended—it was observing everyone.

Aeron scowled. "Something's off."

Kaela nodded. "Ardentia wasn't always this… wary. Something shifted."

The Watchful Eyes

As they approached the front of the line, a stern-faced guard moved forward. His silver helmet sported the crest of Ardentia's ruling council.

"State your business," he commanded.

Aeron hesitated. "We're here to—"

Kaela interrupted. "Trade," she said with a smile, holding up a small leather pouch. "A few rare artifacts. Thought we might find a buyer."

The guard's eyes rested on Aeron's hammer. "And that?

Kaela laughed. "Oh, this?" She slapped Aeron on the back. "Just a fancy family heirloom. Looks impressive, but nothing special."

The guard didn't seem to believe her. He motioned to another soldier. "Take them to the inner courtyard for further questioning."

Aeron bristled. Kaela swore under her breath.

This wasn't going according to plan.

The Interrogation

They were led through the gates into a big stone courtyard, where dozens of other travelers were being searched. Something was certainly amiss.

Aeron saw posters on the walls—some were of criminals, others odd warnings about magic objects.

Then, his breath froze.

One poster had a familiar mark.

The swirling eye—the same sigil left by the Hunter and the shade.

Kaela saw it too. "That's not good."

Before Aeron could say anything, a voice cut in.

"Interesting, indeed,"

Aron stepped forward—a woman wearing silver robes, holding a staff incised with light blue runes. Her cold gaze fixed upon Aron.

"I know what you bear," she said.

Aron's heart raced. Who was she? And why was she familiar with the hammer?

"Join me," the woman said. "You're in danger here."

A Fateful Encounter

Kaela's hand itched for her bow. "And why would we trust you?"

The woman's face remained impassive. "Because the ones who are pursuing you are already within the city."

Aeron shared a look with Kaela.

They had no other option.

They followed the woman into the darkness of Ardentia.

And deep beneath the city, the truth lay in wait for them.