Sanctuary: Safe Haven

Two weeks had passed since the grand celebration in the sanctuary, and the revitalization efforts were still underway, steadily bringing life to the once-barren land. Canna had left his domain in capable hands, confident that the Verdant Wardens, Sylphirs, and his subordinates would continue the work in his absence.

Now, he found himself standing at the outskirts of the Kingdom of Arenthia, a place shrouded in mystery and known for its formidable military might.

With him were Kael and Flora, who was in her human form, having hidden her true power to blend in with the populace. Mortem, ever the shadowy figure, remained concealed within the darkness, ready to act at a moment's notice. The trio's plan was to observe the kingdom discreetly, gather information, and determine their next move.

As they approached the city gates, Canna couldn't help but notice the heavy presence of guards. The gate was an imposing structure, flanked by stone walls that towered above them. Guards in gleaming armor, their faces hidden behind visored helmets, stood at attention, their hands resting on the hilts of their swords.

The air was thick with tension, a palpable reminder of the kingdom's reputation as a military stronghold.

Kael leaned in slightly and spoke in a low voice, "Arenthia is known for its military strength, and it shows. The guards here are some of the best-trained in the region. They take their duty seriously, especially in a time of unrest like this."

Canna nodded, his eyes scanning the guards as they passed through the gate. He could sense the disciplined aura around them, the way they moved with precision and purpose. "The kingdom seems well-prepared for any threat," he observed quietly.

As they continued walking through the bustling streets, Canna noticed that many of the people they passed were armed. Swords, daggers, and even bows were common sights, strapped to the backs or belts of individuals who moved with the air of seasoned fighters.

"These people," Canna began, his curiosity piqued, "are they all soldiers?"

Kael shook his head. "Not quite. Those are adventurers. Arenthia is a hub for them—a place where mercenaries, bounty hunters, and anyone seeking fortune come to take on quests and jobs. They're not part of the official military, but they can be hired for various tasks, ranging from protecting caravans to hunting down dangerous monsters."

Canna's eyes narrowed in thought. "So, they're like a freelance army?"

"In a way, yes," Kael confirmed. "The kingdom allows them to operate freely because they contribute to the kingdom's defense and economy. Adventurers can earn quite a bit of coin if they're skilled, but the risks are high. It's a dangerous profession, and not everyone survives long."

Flora, who had been listening quietly, glanced around, noticing the glances directed at her. Many of the adventurers, particularly the men, were openly staring, their eyes drawn to her striking appearance. Even in her disguised form, she couldn't completely hide her ethereal beauty. She sighed softly, aware that blending in was easier said than done.

"They're looking at you," Canna said with a hint of amusement. "I guess even in a place like this, some things never change."

Flora smiled faintly. "It's not the attention I'm worried about. But I'll keep my guard up master."

They continued to weave through the crowded streets, the atmosphere growing denser with each step. The contrast between the well-maintained roads and the squalid alleys they passed was stark. Canna's eyes were drawn to a particularly narrow street that led into a darker, less inviting part of the city.

Without realizing it, he turned down the alley, his curiosity getting the better of him. Kael and Flora followed, but it wasn't long before they realized they had wandered into one of the kingdom's most impoverished areas—the squatters' district.

The change in scenery was immediate and jarring. The buildings here were dilapidated, with crumbling walls and roofs that looked like they could collapse at any moment. The streets were narrow, filled with mud and debris, and the air was thick with the stench of unwashed bodies and rotting refuse. People in ragged clothes huddled together, their faces gaunt and hollow with hunger.

Canna's heart sank as he took in the sight before him. Children with dirt-smudged faces sat huddled in corners, their eyes wide with fear and desperation. Women with hollow cheeks clutched at their threadbare clothes, while men with sunken eyes and unkempt beards eyed the newcomers with suspicion.

The contrast between this place and the opulence of the kingdom's main streets was staggering. Canna felt a deep sense of pity for the people who were forced to live in such conditions. "How can this exist in the same kingdom?" he muttered, more to himself than to anyone else.

Kael, his expression somber, replied, "Every kingdom has its dark corners, Canna. No matter how powerful or wealthy, there are always those who are left behind. It's a harsh reality."

Canna clenched his fists, anger simmering beneath the surface. "This isn't right. No one should have to live like this."

Flora placed a hand on his arm, her voice gentle but firm. "We can't fix everything, master. But we can make a difference where it matters. Let's focus on why we're here."

Taking a deep breath, Canna nodded. She was right. They couldn't save everyone, but they could make a difference where it counted. He turned away from the squalor, determined to stay focused on their mission.

They left the squatters' district and found a modest inn to rent for the night. The inn was simple but clean, a welcome contrast to the bleakness they had just witnessed. Once they were settled in their room, Canna wasted no time in summoning Mortem.

The necromancer emerged from the shadows, his form barely visible in the dim light. "What do you require, Master?"

Canna met his gaze with a serious expression. "Mortem, I need information. Get me as much as you can find on this kingdom. I want to know everything—its leaders, its secrets, anything that could help us understand what's going on here."

Mortem nodded, his eyes glinting with purpose. "Consider it done."

As Mortem melted back into the shadows, Canna turned to Kael. "In a week's time, I want to arrange a formal meeting with General Alaric. Let's see what he knows, and if we can get him on our side."

Kael nodded, already considering the possibilities. "I'll handle the arrangements. We'll get the information we need."

Canna leaned back, his mind racing with thoughts of what they might uncover. The Kingdom of Arenthia was a powerful and dangerous place, and he needed to tread carefully. But one thing was clear: there was more to this kingdom than met the eye, and he was determined to uncover its secrets.

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