Mateo and Nai followed the fisherman’s advice and set out toward Britain’s main city. The walk was tiring, but their steps were filled with hope — after all, they were leaving behind a grim past and stepping into a new world full of possibility.​

After about ten minutes along the road, they began to see, in the distance, the imposing wall that surrounded the entire city. The afternoon sun reflected off the gray stone blocks, and the structure seemed to stretch endlessly to either side, disappearing into the horizon and swallowing their gaze.​

“Look at that, Nai…” Mateo breathed, almost out of air. “That wall looks like it never ends.”

She nodded, her eyes shining with a mix of awe and apprehension.

When they reached the entrance, two rigid figures stood guard — immaculate uniforms, gleaming armor, stern expressions.

“Identify yourselves,” one of the guards ordered, his cold gaze locked onto the two children approaching.

Mateo drew a deep breath. This was the first real barrier, and they needed to convince that man they were harmless.

“We’re migrant warriors,” he began, voice steady. “The guild in our homeland is overcrowded, saturated. There’s no room left for missions. We’re seeking opportunity, honest work, and shelter.”​

The guard raised a brow, clearly suspicious. Child warriors? That was not common. He folded his arms and replied,

“We don’t let just anyone in. We need proof you’re actually capable.”

Mateo realized he had to show some strength, but he knew he couldn’t use the Blessing of Death — that would raise far too many questions.

So he focused, gathering his ki. The loose stones beside the gate began to tremble, then slowly lift into the air. With one swift, firm motion, he crushed two of them in his hand, the dry crack of shattered rock echoing in the air.

The guard’s eyes went wide.

“Hmph. Impressive.” He glanced over at Nai, who did not flinch. “Very well. You may enter.”

The two exchanged a relieved look and stepped through, already feeling the city’s weight closing in around them.

The moment they crossed the gate, they were greeted by a rush of sounds, colors, and smells. The commercial district buzzed with life: merchants selling exotic fabrics, all sorts of goods, and technological contraptions Maia had never seen before.

They walked down the main street, trying to take everything in, until they reached the massive guild building.

Its doors were huge, carved with symbols of crossed swords and a golden crest that gleamed beneath the sun.

At the front desk, a sharp-eyed woman with rigid posture watched them as they approached.

“You two… Aren’t you the ones wanted by the kingdom of Huwofin?” Her voice cut through the air like a blade.

Before they could answer, two guards appeared behind them, glaring with suspicion.

“You will come with us to the royal castle. Now,” one of the guards said, his hand resting on his sword hilt.

With no way out, Mateo and Nai nodded, doing their best to stay calm.

Upon reaching the castle, they were led through corridors lined with rich tapestries and gleaming armor until they arrived at the throne room, where the king of Britain awaited them.

Despite the formal setting, the king’s gaze held a blend of respect and recognition.

Mateo and Nai bowed respectfully, offering their condolences for the turmoil their presence might cause.

“I know very well how that greedy king operates,” the king said, his deep voice echoing through the hall. “I am not surprised he attacked. You two are strong, very strong. So I want to offer you an alliance. Britain needs warriors like you to stand against Huwofin’s tyranny.”

Mateo kept his eyes fixed on the king as he answered, unwavering,

“To be honest, I can’t stand that wretch. It would be an honor to fight at Britain’s side.”

The king smiled, satisfied.

“We plan to go to war before the end of this year. It is August. You won’t have much time to prepare.”

To show his trust, he assigned them a crucial mission.

“Nai, you will head to a region where Duke Salazar is conspiring against Huwofin. He has a secret pact with the enemy king, trafficking weapons and forbidden technology.”

He fixed Nai with a serious look.

“I need you to gather evidence and report everything back without being detected.”

Then he turned to Mateo.

“You will go to the castle and investigate rumors that ships bearing Thurvien’s sigil are arriving at Huwofin’s port. We suspect they’re carrying weapons and drugs cursed by Enfer.”

A chill ran down Mateo’s spine. The mission was dangerous, but essential.

“We’re ready,” he replied, his voice steady with determination.