Chapter 796 City of Tears 2.0
?The persistent rain tinged the streets of the City of Tears with a soft sheen, and Kaizen's group ventured into the magical alleyways, looking for somewhere they could find the information they needed about what they wanted.
The sound of raindrops against the city's stone floor created a soft melody as they walked towards a tavern known to many magicians.
The City of Tears was one of the most unique locations in Rise Online, as the entire city was enveloped in a magical atmosphere that manifested itself in every street, alley and building. Wizards literally flew their brooms through the city sky. Built centuries ago, the city was a labyrinth of majestic towers and intricately carved buildings, all erected by skilled magicians but so crooked that they seemed about to fall down at any moment.
Each of these buildings housed private schools of magic, for the different social classes trapped in this city, or stores and houses.
The narrow streets, made of a peculiar type of stone that seemed to absorb water, were also permeated by channels of crystalline water that intertwined, forming a liquid web that flowed through the city to the lake.
Taverns dotted the busy streets. It was common to think that the mages in the partys were always the most cultured and quiet, but in a city full of mages that obviously didn't apply, especially when some of them could literally summon barrels of mead.
In the stores, old merchants displayed their wares, from powerful wands to potions of power.
As they explored the city further, Kaizen's group discovered squares where performances by illusionists and enchanters were held for a fascinated audience, as well as another where public executions took place. After all, even in a city like this, crimes happened.
Magic permeated every aspect of life in the City of Tears. Children played with their wands near the fountains in the squares, controlling the water with simple gestures, while students in academic robes practiced simple spells on each other in the city's alleyways.
Alina was delighted to see so many wizards in one place, and Kaizen smiled at how happy she was.
Shortly afterwards, the waitress returned with a crystal tray, on which rested a sparkling drink that changed color like an encapsulated rainbow. "This is Star Essence, the house specialty. Please enjoy." She said with a smile, leaving the jug on the table as well as the glasses.
Kaizen, having filled his cup, raised it in a gesture of thanks. "To our success!" he toasted, and the group followed suit, each trying the unique drink, which tasted like fruit salad mixed with honey and alcohol.
After the waitress left to attend to other tables, Kaizen leaned forward slightly and whispered to the others:
"Remember, we're here to get information about the members of high society in this city. We need to know who the powerful and influential are, but we can't afford to be obvious."
The group members' curious gazes focused on Kaizen.
"Each of us has an important role to play in this mission," he continued. "Alina, you're our observer, keep an eye out for any suspicious movements or relevant conversations. Andrew, use your charm to start casual conversations and find out information from the girls."
"My charm?"
"Yes, do what you do with your hair... Xisrith, even with your magical disguises, you can use your innate skill of diplomacy to spot lies and draw out information. Work with me on that, and the others should spread out, try to blend in."
The group nodded in agreement, and as the minutes passed, they began to spread out around the tavern, trying to blend in.
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