Chapter 1.7/Road to Musel city

The sun hovered at its peak, casting long, golden rays over the vast landscape. Dust swirled lazily in the breeze as Lugas and Isuki made their way down the well-trodden road toward Musel Town, the heart of civilization. It was said to be the most populated and advanced city in the region—a place where children could study, master magic, and find opportunities to earn a living. A stark contrast to the desolation they had left behind.

Lugas adjusted the strap of his satchel, his eyes scanning the distant horizon. "Musel Town… I've heard stories, but seeing it with my own eyes will be something else," he murmured.

Isuki walked beside him, her sharp gaze surveying their surroundings. "We're not the only ones on this road."

Indeed, as their journey stretched into its first few hours, figures appeared ahead and behind them, emerging from side paths or joining the main road from nearby villages. Some were merchants, their carts loaded with goods; others were travelers seeking a better life in the city.

But among them, a small group of strangers caught Lugas's attention.

They moved differently—not with the casual ease of traders or hopeful settlers. Their strides were measured, their eyes fixed on Isuki and him.

Lugas whispered, "They're coming toward us."

Isuki didn't need to be told twice. She adjusted her grip on the hilt of her dagger. "Let's see what they want."

The figures closed in, their expressions unreadable. One of them, a broad-shouldered man with a tattered cloak, stepped forward. "You're headed for Musel Town, aren't you?" His voice was calm, but there was an unmistakable edge to it.

Lugas exchanged a glance with Isuki before nodding. "And if we are?"

The man's lips curled into something between a smile and a warning. "Then you might want to hear a few things before you get there."

The air grew heavier, thick with unspoken tension. Was this a warning? A threat?

And just like that, their journey had become more than just a simple trip to Musel Town.