The Man’s Decree – Chapter 5244

Jared and Flaxseed flowed with the crowd into Swordmaster City. What met them stole breath from every lung.

Streets broad enough for caravans were paved with dark, iron-flecked stone. On either side, buildings rose like serrated blades, each storefront bearing a sign that whispered of steel, "Forging Hall", "Sword Scripture Vault", and dozens more.

Eight of every ten passersby wore a weapon at hip or across back. Even those in plain linen gave off a razor-keen aura that pricked the skin.

"Mercy," Flaxseed muttered, shoulders hunched as he fingered the charm pouch at his belt. "A walk down this avenue is enough to make a man sweat steel."

Jared scanned the endless avenues, eyes dark and steady.