Ombre Eternelle
Stepping off the boat and onto the dock, you find yourself in the a disastrous area. It was here, in the period before the darkness, where Angelina lived and died in the arms of Praneel. The darkness that encircled the city from his tainted blood which was spilled to save her, has never faded. This was never a wealthy area and in the time when Angelina lived it was a simple village where generations of families lived and died relatively undisturbed. It has since fallen into decay under the reign of Nathaniel. The "residents" are particular on who may dwell within their paradise and those who are not up to par may be found among these filthy streets... just as Nathaniel outcast Angelina all that time ago.
Across the way you can hear the angry jeers of criminals confined to a seemingly plaster jail. This is good reason to pause and consider taking the next boat away from this dark grimy place. The plaster peels back in places revealing the solid iron hidden beneath, though surely it would do little to comfort you. Here in this part of the city are the impoverished people unable to leave. The night sky, while still beautiful in this part of the city, would not be enough for most to remain here. It is almost unfeasible why any would linger or deign to live here asl you make your way across the structured bridge.
The glittering marble beneath moonlight is striking and clearly seen long before any reach the end of the bridge. Finely paved roads beneath glowing lampposts guide you through this area of the city. The contrast to the area from which you've just come is startling. There are none who reside in this section, only the merchants who hurry to and fro with their expensive wares setting up their stands and replenishing what has been purchased. The various sights call to you, causing a yearning to explore. Even among all the bustle, there is a quiet stillness that permeates the air from the very trees and flowers dotting either side of the darkly paved roads. Here the trade runs freely without regulation of goods plied and people from all walks of life can be seen enjoying the sights, claiming a stand for their own shop, or enjoying a drink at the bridge-top cafe.
Continuing on past the cafe, a dark gate bound with unnatural power prevents further exploration. As you approach the gate, you may realize you are being watched. An uneasy chill filters to the marrow of your bones in an already cold and sunless place. This oppulent city is not without a dark touch and if only the sun would rise perhaps the chill set in your bones would finally leave, allowing you to enjoy the wealth that surrounds you from every corner.
