Behind the iron bars of Orion’s fortress, Raffy and the others could only surrender to despair.
Meanwhile, in a distant land, Akasa slowly passed through the grand gates of the Ardana Kingdom.
A long, straight road stretched toward the palace—welcoming them with quiet splendor and grace.
The royal carriage carrying Akasa and Princess Dewi Chandara moved at a steady pace, gliding through the living heart of the kingdom.
Along the way, Akasa witnessed scenes of everyday life: people farming the land, herding flying fish through shallow waterways, and massive water buffalo plowing fields.
It was said that the long, powerful horns of those beasts were strong enough to lift ten children—or six grown adults.
Farther ahead, the sounds of music and performance drifted through the air, blending with laughter and song from a bustling traditional market.
The kingdom felt alive—vibrant, warm, and human. Yet one detail stood out.
Whenever Princess Dewi Chandara’s carriage passed, the people who glimpsed it from behind windows would smile—then bow their heads in reverence.
Akasa was stunned.
So the “granny wizard” sitting across from him… truly was a figure deeply respected throughout the realm.
Before long, the road began to incline. The densely populated districts faded behind them, replaced by grander structures—symmetrical buildings that felt distinctly different.
If the lower city resembled a common settlement, this area was unmistakably the domain of nobility.
Green courtyards lined with wooden fences unfolded on either side. Colorful flowers released soft fragrances into the air, while golden-leaved trees shaded the path like silent guardians.
In the distance, elevated bridges rose high and proud, linking major routes of transport and trade across the kingdom.
Eight watchtowers dominated the skyline—four within the inner city, four standing at the outer perimeter—each aligned with the cardinal directions.
The inner towers protected the royal core. The outer ones watched the borders, vigilant against every movement beyond the walls.
Once again, Akasa was left in awe.
For a fleeting moment, he no longer felt like a captive—but like a guest invited to witness a world he had never known.
That illusion shattered as the carriage entered the highest district of Ardana. Stone guardian statues lined the road.
Beyond them stood massive barracks housing soldiers armed with swords, hammers, spears, bows, and axes of all sizes.
Warriors trained in disciplined formations, displaying a defensive force that felt nearly impenetrable.