They returned to Tidebeak's lounge and stepped through a different gate. The temperature dropped the moment they crossed.
They emerged in Ironhold's lounge, similar polished wood and comfortable seating, but the attendant here was dwarven. Through the windows, stone dominated everything.
Cold mountain air hit Leo as they emerged. Through the windows, stone dominated everything. Gray buildings carved into the mountainside. Steep streets climbing in layers. Narrow bridges stretching across deep gorges.
"Welcome to ironhold" Iori said. "Hallmark of history ."
The city rose in terraces, each level built atop the last. Some sections looked newly reinforced, cleaner, sharper. Others carried scars that had never been fully erased. Scorch marks climbed along walls. Impact craters had been filled, but the stone still told the story beneath.
Few people walked the streets at this hour. Those who did moved with purpose, heads forward, steps steady. No wasted motion.
