Amelia PoV
I took a deep breath as we reached the outskirts of Talal. The valley was cooler here and more temperate than the semi-arid towns we had passed by. The city was surrounded by carved out cliffs and nestled in an oasis. To think Taahid could carve out a such a wide area without the use of earth powers.
Our unicorns galloped closer to the city gate. It was made out of intricately decorated wood.
"Who goes there?" A guard shouted, standing at the side of the gate. "State your business." His eyes widened as soon as he saw Farid and Ailia. "Lord Farid! Lady Ailia! What brings you back so soon?"
"We seek an audience with the Sultan," Farid said, his voice calm but firm.
The guard and his partner glanced at the rest of us, their gazes filled with suspicion.
"These are our honored guests," Ailia said, her voice soft but commanding. "They have traveled from afar to seek our Sultan's wisdom."
