"We're almost there."
At the captain's voice, Audalis lifted his head.
Out on the sea, a vast city stretched before him.
The colorful signs floating above the buildings were no ordinary paintings.
A golden-winged whale swam across one sign before leaping into the sky, while beside it, a dragon made of petals scattered into the wind.
Round balloons drifted slowly through the streets, spreading at once the scents of sweet fruit, savory roasted meat, and the cool breath of the ocean.
The chatter of the market, woven from dozens of languages, mingled with the hiss of steam engines and the strings of street musicians—together forming a single, strange harmony.
Smiling, the captain stretched out his hand toward the city.
"Markana! The center of world trade and a neutral nation without an army. People here live by respecting each other's rules. The grand market *is* the nation itself—no one can raise an army to enforce order.
What matters most here is enjoying freedom while taking responsibility for it. In this city, trade and trust are the law. Money and faith move society."
Before he even finished speaking, a man on a flying bicycle soared along the coast.
As he passed right over their ship, a fragrant package slipped from the air.
When the ship docked, Audalis set foot on Markana for the first time.
At that moment, a small wheeled robot approached.
Its silver metal body gleamed in the sunlight, and the round eyes on its screen blinked cheerfully.
"Welcome to Markana! First-time visitor detected! What are you looking for? Hidden alleys, the best food, or secret shops?"
"I…"
Before Audalis could answer, the captain cut in.
"Careful. Say the wrong thing and it'll rob you blind with a so-called 'custom guide fee.'"
The robot's eyes curved into half-moons as it rolled back, then immediately turned to the next traveler.
"Welcome to Markana! Have you heard of the legendary seafood alley?"
While the traveler hesitated, the robot was already flashing a price list on its screen.
"I know the way," the captain said with a smirk, stepping forward. "Follow that thing and you'll just lose your money.
We're heading to the mechanic's house I mentioned. Let's go."