F/VoH Ch 145: Capital of the Polons Kingdom

"Even if someone comes here, it's unlikely they will find you, especially with the Invisibility Feature activated."

Aira virtually nodded, her holographic facial expression remaining calm even though her voice hinted at concern. "Understood, Captain. I will remain here, undetected. I hope you and the others stay safe."

Ryan prepared to stand from his seat, unbuckling his belt before stepping toward the aircraft's exit. Behind Ryan, Ellina, Charlotte, and Rosseline moved quickly, following in his footsteps.

"Take care of yourself, Aira," Ryan said briefly but firmly.

Aira smiled faintly, though digitally. "See you, Captain. Be careful."

Ellina turned toward the hologram before walking out. "See you, Aira. Thank you for your help," Ellina said softly.

"Right! See you!" Charlotte added, giving a small wave that looked odd in front of the hologram.

Rosseline, with a slight smile, nodded slowly. "So, see you, Aira. Don't get caught, okay?"

As they stepped outside, Aira immediately activated the Invisibility Feature, making the jet disappear from sight as if it had never been there.

Outside, the cold wind greeted them, carrying the distinctive scent of damp grasslands after the rain. Ryan led the group, walking steadily toward a small path that would take them to Bertord City. They walked in silence, only the sound of their footsteps on the ground breaking the quiet, interspersed with the sounds of nature around them.

A few minutes later, the large gates of Bertord City appeared before them, towering and sturdy, with guards patrolling the stone walls. Below, a long line formed, consisting of traders, travelers, and wanderers waiting to be allowed in.

Ryan and his companions joined the line without drawing attention. They waited patiently, while the sounds of bargaining and quiet conversations among the queue echoed in the air.

When their turn finally arrived, a guard with a stern face and firm posture stopped them. "Your names and purpose?" he asked, eyeing them suspiciously.

Ryan remained calm, responding in a flat yet convincing voice. "We are traders from outside the city, looking for shelter for a few days."

The guard scrutinized them closely, his eyes tracing the cloaks they wore. After a few seconds of silence that felt like an eternity, the guard extended his hand. "Entry fee, five two-coin silver pieces for each person."

Ryan handed over the coins without much talk, and the guard nodded in satisfaction before gesturing for them to enter.

Once through the gate, the atmosphere of Bertord City was immediately palpable. The narrow cobblestone streets were filled with street vendors, the aroma of spices and warm food mingling with the hustle and bustle of people.

Looking at the capital of the Polons Kingdom, Ryan and his companions could only stare with flat expressions. Compared to the grandeur of the Allen Empire's capital, this city seemed small and simple.

The cobblestone streets lined with ancient-style buildings could not compete with the magnificent architecture they were used to seeing. The beauty of this city, while still present, failed to impress them.

Without much conversation, they quickly sought accommodation. Their criteria were clear—close enough to the city center, but not in the midst of the crowd.

They needed a place that was hidden enough to maintain privacy, yet busy enough to avoid suspicion. Such accommodations usually offered the perfect balance for planning without interruption.

After some time walking through the city streets, they arrived at a building that caught their attention. The inn stood sturdy with walls painted a faded pink in some areas, yet still appeared well-maintained.