The road narrowed as it approached the border, flanked by low stone walls and watchtowers every few miles. The air grew thicker with the scent of pine and distant smoke.
By late afternoon, the first checkpoint came into view—a sturdy timber gatehouse straddling the road, flanked by two tall watchtowers. Solaria's banner snapped in the wind above the gate: golden sun on blue field. Six armored guards stood at attention, two mages in gray robes beside them, staffs glowing faintly with ward runes.
Adam slowed his pace, raising a hand to signal the others.
"Stay calm," he murmured. "We're just travelers."
Seraphina nodded tightly, adjusting her cloak to better conceal her battered armor. Elise pulled her hood lower, though her posture remained regal despite the exhaustion etched into her face. Ignis bounced once on her toes, then forced herself to walk with exaggerated slowness. Lilith simply glided forward, expression serene.
Inside Adam's head, thoughts churned.
