Life District

Daron stepped out of the hospital's sliding doors, squinting at the daylight. It had been a long time since he last saw the sun. Laurence stood beside him, his charming smile in place as always.

"Have you ever been to the Citadel's finest district?" Laurence asked playfully.

Daron nodded. He had only visited the Life District a handful of times and it was always mesmerizing. Those who are not excessively devout to the Goddess typically do not make frequent trips to the district. He recalled his parents mentioning they would visit often when his mother was pregnant, praying for a healthy child.

Daron let out a sigh.

Walking along the stairs of the hospital led them on sidewalks made of white stone, framed by lush greenery. Vibrant flowers bloomed in carefully tended gardens, their sweet fragrance carried on the gentle breeze. Crystal clear streams meandered through the district, the soothing sound of running water a constant backdrop.

White stone buildings rose up around them, their architecture reminiscent of ancient temples. Elegant columns and intricate carvings adorned the facades, while green vines climbed the walls, blurring the line between nature and construction. Sunlight glinted off golden accents, making the structures seem to glow.

Awe filled Daron as he took in the sight.

As if reading his thoughts, Laurence chuckled. "The Life District is truly something special."

Daron could only nod, still admiring the beauty around him.

Laurence gave him a soft bump. "Come on, we've got a lot to do today. The Magistrate awaits."

***

A sleek black limousine pulled up to the curb, its polished surface reflecting the lush greenery surrounding them. Laurence strode forward, opening the door with a flourish.

"After you," he grinned, gesturing for Daron to enter.

Daron hesitated, his nerves suddenly on edge. He wasn't eager to sit in such a small space after the last couple of weeks in the cell, and sitting next to the most powerful magician alive? The thought sent a shiver down his spine. Steeling himself, he climbed into the plush interior nonetheless, sinking into the soft leather seats.

Laurence slid in beside him, the door closing with a soft click. As the car pulled away, Daron fidgeted, hyper-aware of the man's presence. He searched for something to break the awkward silence.

"So, uh, what happens now?" he blurted out, immediately cringing at how naive he sounded.

Laurence leaned back, his posture relaxed. "Well, first things first, we need to get you approved by the Magistrate, but before that," his lips curled into an amused smirk as his eyes lingered on Daron's attire, "we need to do something about those clothes."

Daron glanced down at himself.

He wore a hideously colorful t-shirt, pants several sizes too long, demolished shoes, and a jacket that was far too tight, even for his wiry frame. Each piece was a mismatched relic from the hospital's lost and found and together they made him look like a walking disaster.

Heat crept up his neck and into his cheeks. "I didn't exactly have time to pack a bag," he mumbled.

Laurence waved a hand dismissively. "No worries, we'll get you sorted out. Can't have you meeting the Magistrate looking like you just rummaged through a garage sale, now can we?"

"Next time I'll try to get kidnapped with a change of clothes."

Despite his embarrassment, Daron found himself chuckling. Laurence's easy charm was infectious, putting him at ease in a way he hadn't felt since... everything changed.

The limousine glided through the Life District, a verdant oasis amidst the bustling Citadel. Towering trees lined the streets, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. Streams gurgled alongside the paths, and the air hummed with a gentle pulse.

"It's always so beautiful," he breathed, eyes wide with wonder as he looked outside the cars windows.

Laurence grinned. "I especially admire the temples. Each one is a masterpiece."

After a while, the car slowed as they began to enter the Science District, the lush green and white stone giving way to the sleek, modern buildings.

"Almost there," Laurence said, peering out the window. "Ah, here we are."

The limousine rolled to a stop before a small, unassuming shop tucked between two towering edifices. No sign hung above the door, no window displays hinted at what lay inside. Daron frowned, puzzled.

"A tailor?" he guessed as they climbed out of the car.

Laurence smiled. "Not just any tailor. Come on, you'll see."

A bell chimed as they stepped inside, the door swinging shut behind them. Daron blinked, his eyes adjusting to the dim, ambient lighting. Rich, dark woods and opulent fabrics greeted him, the very picture of refined elegance. A faint, pleasantly spicy scent hung in the air.

"Laurence, my boy!" A man emerged from the back room, his white hair slicked back from a lined, careworn face. "What a pleasant surprise."

"Hello, Edmond." Laurence clasped the man's hand warmly. "I've brought you a new client."

The tailor's gaze fell on Daron, and for a fleeting instant, a flicker of sorrow darkened his eyes. It vanished so quickly that Daron wondered if he'd imagined it.

"I see." Edmond circled Daron slowly, assessing him with a critical eye. "Yes, I think we can work with this. He'll be looking sharp in no time."

As the tailor bustled about, gathering measuring tapes and fabric swatches, Daron's mind wandered. He sensed a history between Laurence and Edmond, an unspoken understanding that went beyond mere acquaintance. And that look in the old man's eyes...

Laurence clapped his hands together, the sound echoing in the quiet shop. "Excellent! I knew I could count on you, Edmond."

He turned to Daron, his purple eyes glinting with mischief. "I have a few errands to run, so I'll leave you in Edmond's capable hands. He'll have you looking like a proper member in no time."

Daron's heart stuttered. "Wait, you're leaving?"

"Don't worry, kid. I'll be back before you know it." Laurence winked. "Just don't give Edmond too much trouble, alright?"

With a parting wave, Laurence strode out of the shop, the bell above the door tinkling in his wake. Daron stared after him.

"Well, then." Edmond's voice snapped him back to the present. "Shall we begin?"