The guards led us through the streets of Blacksand City toward the spire. The colossal obsidian formation was still massive, but it was missing a very noticeable amount at the top. Jagged chasms tore through the city terraces girding its length, and countless rockfalls and hardened magma flows broke up the once beautiful bridges and streets.
The city was surprisingly lively, with marketers opening amidst the ruins. Many of the civilians carried injuries, but their eyes were bright, and a bounce filled most of their steps. Children ran through the streets, playing tag and collecting wildflowers that grew between the cracked and broken paving stones.
"See? We did it," R'lissea whispered, taking my hand and squeezing it.
I nodded. "I know, it's just…I wish they'd stop staring at us."
Elise giggled on my other side. "They can't help it. The flowers were a nice touch, too."
