The Dragon Temple stood high above the ground.
Endless clouds wrapped around it in layers.
It resembled a fairyland.
Though its name included "temple," it was not a single building.
It was not merely a few small houses sitting on a platform.
Rather, it was a chain of architectural islands stretching beyond sight.
Together, these islands formed an archipelago-like complex.
Like a city floating in the sky.
Compared to the war-torn, ruined land below,
this place seemed to have suffered little from the flames of war.
Though many buildings bore obvious signs of repair, those with intact structures and undamaged functions could practically be called flawless.
At the deepest part of the city stood an architectural island.
Cloud and mist completely obscured its surroundings.
Yet within the boundaries of the buildings,
the air was entirely dry.
Vines bearing strawberry-like crystalline fruits grew along every outermost building.
These plants clung to the surfaces of the structures.
They converted drifting clouds into flowing water.
The water streamed into the canals surrounding the buildings, producing a soft rushing sound.
Buzz—
Though worn-down in appearance, it was only its exterior that was old.
The internal components and magical runes remained completely intact.
The portal, which had sat unused for years, began operating smoothly.
Before long, Cypher and Alice emerged from it.
Cypher still surveyed his surroundings first. Only after confirming there was no danger did he turn his attention to the scenery.
The environment at such a height was always breathtaking.
After leaving the room containing the portal,
Cypher walked to the edge of the railing and looked down.
The mountains and rivers on the ground below looked tiny.
It felt as though he were looking at a map.
Fortunately, ever since gaining the ability to fly, Cypher had overcome his fear of heights.