SSS Talent: From Trash to Tyrant Chapter 604: Aurevane

Trafalgar was seated beside Cynthia as Aurevane materialized into view beyond the train's window.

Cynthia had been observing the cityscape for some time, her gaze locked onto the city as the train's momentum began to wane. Trafalgar, in contrast, was lost in his own thoughts for a brief period.

'Caelum departed some time ago. I suppose he needs to ready himself before venturing into the city, and from this vantage point, entry will undoubtedly be challenging. Should I need to reach him, the Shadowlink Echo will be my means, but for now, I shall permit him his preparations. Let's ascertain what awaits us in Aurevane. I truly hope Selara's mentor is indeed present. Numerous inquiries weigh upon my mind regarding him.'

Cynthia, meanwhile, was demonstrably captivated by the city's spectacle.

This was her inaugural encounter with such a place, and she made no effort to conceal her astonishment. Her face was pressed close to the glass, her eyes alight, her voice escalating with each new edifice that emerged beyond the panes.

"Observe that, Trafalgar. Might we venture there? It bears the striking resemblance of a true castle."

Instead of directing his attention outward, Trafalgar found his gaze drawn to her.

It was curiously compelling, witnessing Cynthia's unadulterated delight. Such happiness, devoid of any protective facade, was a rare and precious sight. Her strength typically manifested in her resolute demeanor rather than her words, her steadfast attitude often overshadowing the fact that she could exhibit such open enthusiasm.

Clearly, she perceived his lack of direct engagement.

Cynthia pivoted from the window, her eyes meeting his.

"Are you attending to my words?"

She likely believed she had caught him inattentive. However, this was not the case.

If his life had imparted any wisdom to Trafalgar, it was the art of multitasking his attention. His survival as a Morgain, navigating the complexities of nobility, confronting assassins, battling monstrous entities, engaging in political maneuverings, and surviving Selara's laboratory calamities had provided him with invaluable, albeit often agonizing, tutelage. "That structure is likely the venue for the primary proceedings," Trafalgar stated, his gaze drifting towards the edifice she had indicated. "Therefore, yes, the castle undoubtedly holds significance. Though its design leans towards innovation rather than tradition; it appears more contemporary."

Cynthia's countenance underwent an immediate transformation.

Her expression conveyed pleasure at his demonstrated attentiveness.

"Our stay here will be extended," she declared, turning back towards the cityscape with renewed fervor. "I also intend to procure some items. Perhaps something for Barth. Do you have any particular objectives for our time here?"

Trafalgar shifted slightly, leaning back.

"To observe their offerings. There might be items of interest available for purchase."

The train's speed gradually reduced to a steady pace of approximately twenty kilometers per hour, roughly twelve miles per hour, as the city limits drew near. Trafalgar now directed his view through the window.

The landscape was devoid of snow; they had traversed that frigid region hours prior. The external environment was considerably warmer, with sunlight cascading across the tracks and trees lining the adjacent roadway. From a distance, Aurevane presented a far more inviting aspect than the tempestuous weather they had endured to reach it.

'A fortunate circumstance that I provisioned attire suitable for varied climates.'

The train plunged into an extended tunnel carved directly through the city's external perimeter.

The wall itself was of colossal scale, constructed from pale stone and fortified with layered geological strata. It did not project the appearance of a mere decorative structure. Rather, it conveyed an impression of formidable defense, designed to impede the ingress of individuals, wild beasts, and misguided intentions. Arching above, a semi-transparent shield curved over the city like a delicate dome, discernible only when sunlight reflected upon its surface at specific angles.

Aerial entry was evidently prohibited.

An individual possessing a barrier-manipulating talent, or perhaps multiple such individuals, had erected this formidable defense to ensure that even the very air provided no facile passage into Aurevane. Watchtowers punctuated the wall at regular intervals, each manned and interconnected by luminous channels pulsing with mana.

'This evokes a distinct parallel with the mountain housing my family's Sword Graveyard.'

Though the underlying purpose and stylistic execution differed, the overarching sensation of regulated access remained palpable.

One did not simply approach.

One was granted admission.

Upon traversing the tunnel, a more comprehensive vista of the city unfolded.

Aurevane, while not sprawling in size, exhibited remarkable density and focus. Its structures were organized into distinct districts, each tailored to a specific profession or area of expertise. Alchemical laboratories, characterized by glass canopies and luminous green-gold lamps. Engineering guilds, distinguished by copper frameworks, rotating ventilation systems, and chimneys emitting meticulously colored plumes of smoke. Bestial containment areas, featuring reinforced enclosures and robust gateways. Medical institutes, bustling marketplaces, logistical depots, modest research facilities, and private abodes that likely harbored more concealed aspects than visible windows suggested.

The prevalence of stalls lining the thoroughfares was a direct consequence of the ongoing event.

These were not rudimentary market stands catering to casual visitors. Instead, they represented curated displays established by individuals seeking financial gain, enhanced reputation, or both. Exotic ingredients encased in crystalline displays. Expertly polished monster ossicles. Medicinal or alchemical vials suspended within specialized containment units. Components for armaments. Ancient scrolls. Intricate small-scale devices that emitted clicking sounds, rotated with deliberate motion, released puffs of steam, or vibrated with contained mana.

This occasion served as a grand exhibition for artisans eager to showcase their latest creations.

And, naturally, for those with ample riches to acquire what was none of their concern.

The train finally pulled into the station.

Selara's voice rang out from the front of the carriage.

All the students were congregated once more. Following the recent attack, few possessed the inclination to venture through the train unaccompanied. Even the third-years, who had initially maintained an air of fearlessness, had wisely retreated to the academy carriage and remained there.

"We have reached our destination," Selara announced, punctuating her words with a single clap of her hands. Her attire had been sufficiently mended to appear respectable, though Trafalgar sensed her inner turmoil remained unabated. "Everyone, maintain formation and follow me. Do not stray from the group for now. Our first destination is our lodgings for this stay, and upon arrival, I will provide further instructions."

Trafalgar rose and retrieved his suitcase.

Cynthia fell into step beside him.

Caelum, understanding him by now, had likely already assumed a new guise within Aurevane, concealed in a location no one would think to investigate. This was perhaps for the best. If the city maintained such vigilance against external threats, its interior would undoubtedly be secured with equal rigor.

The mission had officially commenced.

The objective: locate Selara's master.

If the man was anywhere in the world at this moment, this city presented an ideal sanctuary. Aurevane had drawn together over thirty thousand prominent individuals for an event of global significance. The attendees comprised alchemists, engineers, researchers, merchants, nobles, smugglers masquerading as investors, and investors who were likely more nefarious than any smuggler.

It was a perfect milieu for someone adept at obscuring themselves amidst influence and wealth.

Trafalgar tightened his grasp on his suitcase and followed Selara towards the exit.

'Time to commence operations.'