As they got closer, the entrance to Testrovsc's Rest revealed itself to be more and more impressive.
It was a magnificent structure, a testament to the one-of-a-kind blend of tradition and technology that the city possessed.
A pair of enormous, sleek metal doors propped open flanked the entrance on either side. Unlike the homogeneity of New Alexandria, this city thrived on diversity.
Even from a distance, Erik could see a flux of people moving through the gates, an endless, vibrant tide of activity. This was not a silent, sterile stream of city goers; instead, it was a bustling crowd of adventurers, mercenaries, and traders, all of whom were wrapped in almost intoxicating chaos.
The individuals were striking and armored in various protective gear designs ranging from straightforward to outrageously original.
Weapons as diverse as simple swords and bows, plasma rifles, and energy shields were familiar sights, either slung across backs or fastened to belts. Their animated expressions told stories of dangerous travels, and each individual exuded an air of unyielding resolve.
The security guards stationed at the entrance were a sight to behold, too, because of their highly technological body armor and visors to conceal their eyes and give them information in real time.
t their side, they held impressive weapons - a hybrid of melee and ranged designs, radiating a soft glow, signaling their readiness.
Testrovsc's Rest was the pinnacle of organized anarchy due to the flurry of activity that prevailed there. The city was a safe haven for those who chose to go the less traveled routes, sought the excitement of the unknown, and courageously faced the many dangers that life presented.
As Erik got closer to the gateway, he couldn't contain his excitement any longer. Despite what appeared to be complete anarchy, the city had a vitality that New Alexandria lacked and was pulsating with life.
People didn't just live here; they were thriving despite the challenges, their spirits unaffected by the daily dangers, Thaids.
He fervently wished that these people weren't like the Frantians, who were obsessed with power and looked down on those who were less capable.
Mira turned towards Erik after a brief pause, her eyes gentle beneath the shadows of the city gates. "We'll part ways here," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper amid the bustling crowd.
Erik gave a gentle nod and a warm smile in response. "I understand. Wish you safe travels and bountiful hunts to all of you."
Kael was the next to speak, his eyes genuine as he extended his hand to Erik while holding his unconscious companion. "It was nice to meet you, Erik. We hope to run into you again inside the city."
Erik accepted the hand with a firm shake, acknowledging the sentiment with a heartfelt grin. "The pleasure was mine. If we have time, we will definitely meet; I look forward to it. Have a nice day."
He turned to face the city gates once more, waving goodbye to his new friends before embarking on his journey into the unknown. But first and foremost, he needed to get into range to connect to the Internet and fill out the data needed to create a fake ID. He needed a new identity if he wanted to get inside the city.
Erik approached the gate slowly, his gaze drawn upward to take in the massive structure that towered above him.
What he first thought was a city gate was much more, a massive structure. It's interior humming with activity under the harsh glow of artificial lights. The scene that unfolded before him as he crossed the threshold of the city's gate was utterly unexpected.
It resembled a vast shopping mall bathed in overhead lights' cool, sterile luminosity. The spacious hall was lined with shops and illuminated storefronts selling everything from modern clothing to ancient weapons.
The variety of merchandise was astounding, spanning both practicality and antiquity. The sight was overwhelming yet captivating in its own right.
Erik's gaze wandered across the plethora of shops, each offering something unique. However, it was the weapon stores that piqued his interest the most.
Etrium was renowned for its craftsmanship, and the weapons on display were nothing short of spectacular. The display cases were filled with a dazzling array of old and new weaponry, each an artful combination of craftsmanship and functionality much different from the sterile and simple ones made in Frant.
Among them, Erik could make out weapons that bore the distinct signs of being imbued with the powers of Thaid's brain crystals, which was further proven by their price tags, which were much higher than the other weapons, but at the same time, making them all the more coveted. Still, they weren't much since this was a secret technology, and there were just a few crafters able to do that.
His gaze was drawn to the food stalls and cafes scattered throughout the vast hall—the enticing aroma of cooking mingled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the air.
The restaurants were a melting pot, serving everything from local delicacies to exotic dishes. On the other hand, the coffee shops exuded a welcoming atmosphere, with baristas brewing orders behind gleaming countertops.
Erik took note of the vehicles for sale inside some of the shops as he moved through the people. Most were vehicles with high capacity; some had weapons mounted on them, while others were purely thought to bring Thaids' bodies back to the city after a hunt. Nonetheless, each vehicle exuded elegance and power, reflecting the sophistication of Etrium's craftsmanship.
The entire place was a riot of color, noise, and movement. People milled about, their voices rising and falling in a steady hum of conversation, laughter, and bargaining. Merchants shouted from their stalls, hoping to catch the attention of passersby. Customers moved between stores, their arms laden with purchases.
Erik felt awe and curiosity as he surveyed his surroundings. It was a different world, one full of possibilities and challenges.
Despite the strangeness of it all, Erik felt a rush of excitement. This was a new beginning, an opportunity to carve out a place for himself in an intimidating and fascinating world.
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