?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 mon 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.
The Tower of the Elders stood in the center of the city, a monument of knowledge and power. It was the place where the most renowned mages gathered to discuss matters of great importance and make decisions that shaped the fate of the city.
The constant rain was not a nuisance for the city's inhabitants, but a blessing. It was considered a manifestation of the magic that permeated every aspect of their lives, a blessing from the arcane gods who protected the city. The magicians, skilled in manipulating magical energies, walked the streets wearing clothes that repelled water, while enchantments protected their books and work tools.
However, the constant rain also brought a subtle melancholy to the poorer neighborhoods.
Finally, after more than an hour of searching, Kaizen found a place that didn't seem crowded or empty. This establishment was far from the area of the wealthy, as well as the area of poverty.
The Silver Moon Tavern was a cozy establishment situated on an enchanted street corner and emanated a soft light that shone through the foggy windows. As they entered, the scent of flowers and the murmur of conversation filled the air.
Kaizen was with a large group, so he immediately attracted attention, except that the only person who could show that they weren't local, Xisrith, was using a magic potion to hide her horns and tail, so they didn't attract more than a few curious glances. Kaizen led the group to a table in a discreet corner of the tavern.
A magical tapestry hanging on the wall depicted legendary events in the city, which caught Alina's eye, while floating candles provided soft lighting.
A waitress, dressed in refined attire and with a cordial smile, approached to serve them.
"Good evening, travelers. How may I serve you?" She asked with a respectful inclination.
Kaizen, choosing his words carefully, replied: "We want to try your best drink."
The waitress inclined her head in understanding and left to get the drink she had ordered.
The atmosphere in the Silver Moon Tavern was weling, a palette of muffled laughter and murmurs filling the room.
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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