The carriage rattled as it crossed the stone bridge leading into Nivaria's capital. Beyond the archway, the view unfolded into broad streets paved with pale stone, tidy rows of shops, and open squares filled with vendors calling out their wares. The air was warmer, laced with the tang of the sea, and in the distance the faint roar of waves never truly faded.
Noel leaned closer to the window, his expression unreadable as he took in the scene. Compared to Valon, this city felt simpler, less gilded—but there was a sturdiness to it, a confidence in the way its people moved. Fishermen carried heavy nets on their shoulders, merchants haggled with sharp voices, and children ran barefoot along the edges of the road.
Beside him, Elena smiled faintly. "It's been a long time since I've been here. I'd almost forgotten the smell of salt in the air."
Livia leaned toward the window as well, her eyes soft. "It's livelier than I remember. The markets have grown."
