Note: To be revised after completion

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Calista's eyes widened at the sight of ships surrounding them as soon as they finally woke up. However, Darius wasn't surprised since he was already used to these encounters with new people. Calista was not accustomed to such situations.

A lot of ships were guarding the borders of Arkenheilm. Aloysius walked over to them and stared at their captain to ask, "Do you think those are for us?"

Darius shook his head. "No, these are normal ships that only serve as their protection. The real questioning is over by the dock."

As they pass the ships, they've noticed the guards staring at them but soon nod as a greeting. Darius returned the gesture before sailing closer toward the docks, where an officer came forward to guide them.

The city was bustling with life as the people rushed around their everyday business, either buying supplies or just enjoying the morning air. Calista smiled to herself as she gazed at her surroundings.

Darius led Calista off the boat, holding her hand gently. They walked along with the rest of the crew members, following the guard toward a building in the center of the docks. Inside was an extravagant meeting chamber that overlooked the entire city.

As they walked in, Darius noticed the guards standing along the walls with guns at hand. They were greeted by a stern-looking woman with dark brown curly hair and emerald eyes who wore a simple red suit. She was also followed by three women dressed in similar attire, although wearing brown suits, and adorned with golden earrings.

The group greeted them politely and introduced themselves. The woman named Elysaria addressed them first. "Welcome. Welcome to Arkenheilm," she said, her voice smooth as silk. Darius was instantly surprised by how welcoming they were.

He had expected some sort of hostility from strangers, not this kind of welcome. But then again... it wouldn't be the first time an enemy welcomed him with open arms like this. Darius bowed slightly and replied respectfully, "Thank you. We thank you for your hospitality."

"No need to thank us." Elysaria waved her hands dismissively.

Then she faced Calista. "And may I know why we have guests here today? This city is closed to outsiders."

Calista nodded in understanding. "We apologize. We got lost and made a sudden detour."

"We were on our way to Gryndale but unfortunately landed on Bridgeven Tides," Aloysius further told them.

Elysaria pursed her lips thoughtfully. "I'm assuming it was Solstice whom you talked to while in Bridgeven. That place is damned with sirens." 

She then sighed, "It appears we don't have much choice. Our lady is still on an expedition so for now, you are to stay in the city until she returns. I'll let the guards inform you about our rules and I do expect all of you to abide by our law."

Elysaria gestured for them to follow the guards she had assigned to take them to the nearest place to rest. A few minutes later, the group arrived at a quaint inn near the docks. It didn't take long for them to arrive inside, and Elysaria handed each of them a room key. 

The other crew members had already gotten their keys and were inside their rooms so it was only the five of them in the hallway. The four of them looked at one another with confusion as they saw guards stationed outside the inn.

"Is this for our protection or yours? If you don't mind me asking, that is," Darius asked the woman as he stared at her.

"Both. Besides, we cannot let you roam freely yet," Elysaria explained with a smile, making Darius frown even more.

He glanced at Calista who shrugged. "I would prefer if the three of you remain together. Please try not to cause any trouble."

"Of course," Aloysius promised. She shot them a kook before looking back at the captain.

Darius only nodded. "Thank you for taking the trouble to show us to our rooms."

"Well then, I'll go see how the rest of the citizens are doing. Excuse me." And without waiting for any reply, she left the room and went down the stairs.

After Elysaria disappeared into the crowd, the three of them exchanged looks before settling on their rooms.

"Can we really trust her?" Aloysius questioned as he looked at the door with crossed arms. 

"Trust isn't really in the equation yet," Darius responded. He then turned to face his friend, "But we don't have much of a choice. For now."

Aloysius grumbled something under his breath. Darius only ignored this before saying, "Let's get ready for bed. Rest is essential. Who knows what is in store for us tomorrow."

After the two boys changed into their pajamas in silence, they climbed into their beds. As Darius settled down on the mattress, he heard shuffling next to him. His curiosity got the best of him. He opened his eyes and saw Calista lying in bed, staring at the ceiling and fidgeting nervously.

"What's wrong?" Darius asked as he sat up. He moved over a bit to create some space between the beds. Calista didn't say anything and continued to move away from him, obviously trying to make space for him.

Darius took his blanket and threw it over her. "Come on. Lay down next to me. There is no need to pretend everything is fine when we both know we can't lie to each other. So why don't you just tell me what's bothering you?"

This seemed to catch Calista off-guard as she turned toward him and said, "What makes you think something's bothering me?"

"Don't play coy. I'm sure you've been thinking of something else, too," Darius said, narrowing his eyes. "You're worried, aren't you?"

Calista stayed silent and turned away again. Darius frowned and decided to try a different tactic. Instead, he said, "You know that I'd protect you if something were to happen, right love?" 

Darius reached out and placed his hand on her arm. The contact instantly caused her body to relax a little and she looked at him. She gave him a small smile, her eyes sparkling.

Darius waited patiently for her answer while she averted her gaze for some time, probably deep in thought. Eventually, she murmured quietly, "I know. I'm just worried that this would end up in us being in trouble like Everfrost. I don't want that to happen"

Darius leaned back on his pillows. Calista followed suit and laid down next to him. As she was about to close her eyes, Darius spoke again. "It won't. Don't worry."

"If this doesn't turn out as it is supposed to be, just know that there is absolutely nothing I wouldn't do for you. I will sacrifice anything to ensure your safety." Darius finished as he squeezed her hand reassuringly.

They lay in bed in silence, but they could hear the sound of waves crashing against the rocks nearby. Darius couldn't help but sigh. He hoped for the best that the ruler of Arkenheilm would be more reasonable than Everfrost.