27 Tied Up... Arriving at Wyndham City (2/2)

Chalice was even half-expecting him to sleep with her in the same room. He was being that irrational. Not that she could blame him though. It was good he still had enough sense of awareness not to do that. Although, when they took to the outside Luke pitched his tent right next to hers.

Despite his helicopter- parent tendencies, Chalice was actually a bit flattered with the attention. Even Levi was acting like mother hen to a chick. She didn't know whether to laugh or cry at this.

”I get it, okay? I know what I got to do. Stop with all the nagging. If you get any more closer, I'll freaking kiss you.”

Chalice retorted back at him with tease. As usual, red decorated Luke's cheeks and ears. She smiled, pleased with herself. Teasing Luke always brings her a sense of achievement and a decadent satisfaction. It was addicting.

”My lady, please be more mindful of your words.”

Luke chided her, his tone helpless. Chalice snorted at that, emphasizing her protest. She dragged Luke with her and called for Aslan. Being a proud, intelligent kitty, Chalice didn't spend a lot of time instructing him. The big guy was easier to talk and coax compared to the man at her side.

However, Chalice still repeatedly reminded Aslan to wait for them at Zeru mountains. She knew she had nothing to worry about, Aslan was a royal beast after all. But remembering his injuries the first time they met, Chalice couldn't help it. The lion licked her endearingly before setting off.

As for her entourage, Rye and Ward entered earlier to look for an inn and a stable so their horses could rest and be fed. As for her, Luke, and Levi, they proceeded to Wyndham City on foot.

Being a port city, Wyndham catered to a constant influx of tourists, merchants, and foreigners. The city was bustling with people of diferrent sorts of features and clothing. Carriages came and go. There were even rickshaws rushing about.

Chalice was reminded of the cities in her past. Minus the high-rise buildings, the cars, and modern technology, Wyndham was a perfect example of a prosperous mid-century city.

Chalice looked around. There were lots of various commodities which she hasn't seen before. As she looked around at the trinkets at the sideway stalls, Chalice observed the interaction of the people. The stores were all lively with chatter. The cityfolk had smiles on their faces.

But...there was something amiss.

”Luke, this city is strange.”

Chalice said to her companion, her eyes still at the people busily going about their own businesses.

”Why do you say so, my lady?”

Luke gazed at her questioningly. Could the lady have noticed it?

”Their smiles. It's a bit too forced. Too unnatural. And despite the lively atmosphere, it's as if the entire city is shrouded in a deep, lingering fear.”