Azure nods, his prana fading as the tension in the water begins to ease. "Agreed. Let's head back to Corallume City."
The journey back to the city is uneventful. The massive silhouette of Corallume City comes into view, its towering coral spires and bioluminescent lights cutting through the darkness like a beacon.
As they approach the gates, the guards standing watch immediately recognize them. Without so much as a word, the guards step aside, their expressions respectful.
"Sir Taryn. Sir Azure," one of them says with a deep bow. "Welcome back. You may pass."
Azure glances at Taryn, raising an eyebrow. "Guess you're popular."
Taryn smirks, his tone light. "Perks of being on a first-name basis with the city master."
They make their way through the bustling city streets, bypassing long lines of citizens and traders waiting for their turn to enter the inner sanctum. Azure notices how the people glance at them—awed and curious—but he ignores the stares.
