"You said your family name is Baran?" The guard that had initially begun to answer Lykos spoke once more.

"Yes. I simply wish to know what has happened, and if my mother and sister are well."

"Look, kid. I honestly don't know much about what's happened, but I know the royal family is taking it seriously. So, if I'm going to announce your arrival, I need to know if you're actually part of the Baran family. Do you have any proof you could provide me?" The guard sighed as they talked, visibly pitying Lykos. 

"I have the letter my mother left to notify me of what had happened, as well as my proof of citizenship within this kingdom." The guard nods but gives him a questioning look.

"You keep your proof of citizenship on you?" 

"Only when I'm entering the city, especially if it is because of something my father is done. I need it to retrieve him from the common jailhouse." Lykos responds sheepishly, knowing it sounds awful that he's had to retrieve his father so many times that he doesn't enter the city without his proof of citizenship, which is ridiculously hard to replace if lost. The guard nods once more, shaking their hand as they reach their hand out towards Lykos.

"Hand me both, usually citizenship would be enough, but this is a special situation." Lykos quickly scrambles to get into the pocket on his chest, taking out the folded letter and his proof of citizenship. He hands it to the guard, resisting the urge to bounce his leg against Elips' side, knowing it would only cause her to be uneasy. The guard is quick but gentle about unfolding the letter, and Lykos' proof of citizenship. They look at the two for a moment, holding the proof of citizenship up to the sky for inspection under what little sunshine was left. The guard nodded as it passed their personal examination. "Alright, kid. I believe you." Lykos sighed in relief as the guard handed him the proof of citizenship back, keeping the letter in hand. "Gimme a second, but I should be able to get them to let you in." 

Lykos watched as they walked to the gate, knocking once then sliding the note through a practically invisible slit. It's only seconds before it slides back out, and the gates begin to creak open, the guards step out of the way, and the letter is handed back to Lykos.

"You're gonna need this, kid." They sigh, shaking their head. "May the Gods smile upon you." Lykos' stomach tightens and rolls with anxiety, his lungs squeezing with worry as he nods and thanks them. Lykos gently nudges Elpis' side once the gates are fully opening, encouraging her into a slow trot through the gates.