Chapter 75 : Inside the Gates

Dirga couldn't shake the question from his mind.

Why did that man let us through so easily?

The old Devil's crimson eyes had scanned him with eerie familiarity. No interrogation. No resistance. Just one quiet nod… and the gates of Ortheva had opened.

"See? I told you," Saelari said smugly as they walked, her voice pulling Dirga from his spiraling thoughts. "Just a bit of aura does the trick."

Kaela walked silently behind them, her chestnut hair flowing with each step, golden eyes soaking in everything.

They were inside.

The tunnel beyond the gates was wide enough for carriages and creatures alike.

 To their left and right, elevated walkways carried steady foot traffic.

In the center, mounts, metal transports, and lumbering beasts rumbled by—some guided, others autonomous.

The air smelled like oil, iron, and roasted meat.

Magic lights flickered faintly overhead, blending with natural dusk.