Everyone followed Ang through the gates of Weil Fortress. Beneath their feet lay solid stone-paved roads, while the air carried the faint scent of metal and magical materials.
This place was no different from an ordinary human city. Shops lined both sides of the broad streets.
The only difference was that every passerby was a Great Warrior or Archmage. Their steady strides and the faintly powerful aura surrounding them naturally inspired awe.
Quintina looked around, a trace of emotion flashing through her eyes. "If we hadn't asked to act together, we might have spent a whole year at the Third Defense Line."
There was a hint of relief in her voice as she recalled those relatively peaceful yet challenge-starved days.
Puli smiled at that. "It was better to come to the First Defense Line. Otherwise, how could we have earned so many Merit Points?"
His tone was relaxed, and his eyes reflected satisfaction with their gains. Everyone nodded along, their faces glowing with accomplishment.
Afterward, they found an inn and settled in.
The inn looked old-fashioned from the outside, yet warm light spilled from within. The owner warmly informed them that they could pay for lodging with magic crystals, which made everyone breathe a sigh of relief—
They had previously worried that they would have to exchange their precious Merit Points instead.
Ang pushed open the door to his room. A sense of peace rose within him, mixed with anticipation for the operation ahead.
Quintina helped him make the bed and said softly, "We can finally get some proper rest."
As everyone dispersed, they exchanged knowing looks. Beneath their exhaustion was longing for the future.
Once they had settled down, they strolled through the streets together.
The market was bustling. Vendors shouted as they sold magical materials, Enchanted Weapons, and