Towering, majestic walls rose into view in the distance. Starfall, along with the other paladins, finally let out a breath they hadn't realized they'd been holding.0

After so many days on the road, they had at last reached Alkhemia, the City of Alchemists.0

Starfall raised his right hand in a brief signal. At once, the Knights Penitent slowed in perfect unison, then came to a crisp halt.0

They had come on official business and represented the face of the Lyon Empire itself. It would not do to enter Alkhemia looking travel-worn and dust-choked.0

Suddenly, rain fell from the sky, drenching the heavily armored paladins to the bone.0

This was no natural downpour, but a conjured shower that washed away most of the grime and dust clinging to their armor...2