Upon boarding the airship, Kaizen began to feel the slight vibration of the machine as it prepared to take off. The passenger cabin was quite spacious and cozy, with comfortable leather seats and large windows that offered a panoramic view of the breathtaking landscape.
The captain of the airship stepped out of the cabin for a moment to greet the passengers.
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to my airship. I hope you enjoy the ride and the magnificent view along the way, and I hope you won't be like the damned barbarian who took a shit on my leather seat!"
Seconds later, with a slight jolt, the airship began to lift off the ground and slowly ascend toward the floating island.
Kaizen settled into his seat, enjoying the comfort of the soft leather as he watched through the window as the camp quickly moved away. The sound of the propellers cutting through the air echoed through the cabin, creating an atmosphere of impending adventure. As the airship gained altitude, Kaizen's perspective began to change. He could see the vast, uneven desert that surrounded the capital of Vrikhodour, stretching as far as the eye could see. Towering mountains loomed like sentinels, their rock formations punctuating the inhospitable landscape.
As the journey continued, the floating island of Vrikhodour grew larger and larger before Kaizen's eyes. It was a breathtaking sight. Surrounded by massive currents that held it in the air, the island seemed to defy gravity itself. Lush vegetation covered the steep slopes, creating a palette of vibrant greens that contrasted with the gleaming architecture of the city.
In the middle of the city, soaring towers dotted the skyline with their elegant shapes and meticulous details. Some looked like modern buildings, while others were surrounded by hanging gardens, adding a touch of nature to the urban environment. Kaizen marveled at the harmony between nature and construction, a perfect symbiosis between the splendor of the flora and the grandeur of the architecture, all surrounded by extremely dangerous regions.
The city was a work of art in itself. Its bustling streets ran like veins through the neighborhoods, pulsing with the energy of its inhabitants, most of whom seemed to be gamblers. Caravans of winged creatures flew across the skies toward the island's harbor, carrying goods and people. It was a true aerial spectacle, and Kaizen felt fortunate to be able to witness it.
As the airship approached the island, Kaizen saw that the floating city, with its glittering buildings and incessant buzz of activity, invited him to explore its challenges. He could feel the pulse of the city, a call to adventurers who wanted to become very strong.
As the airship approached the docking port, Kaizen looked at Duran and inquired:
"Is the city always this busy, Duran? It's very impressive for a place like this."
Duran smiled. "In parts, yes. Zephyrion is a thriving city full of opportunities for players, even though it is not a start-up city. But on these particular days, it is even busier than usual."
Curious, Kaizen raised his eyebrows and asked:
"Why is that?"
The one who answered Kaizen this time was not Duran, but his archer friend.
"Well... in a few days there will be a convention of geniuses and great minds from all over the world. I believe arcane masters, renowned sages, and scholars from various fields will gather here to share their knowledge, discuss discoveries, and promote advancements in magic, science, and many other fields, at least that's what I've heard. It should be a unique opportunity for those who wish to learn and network with the best in their respective fields, or find quests with NPCs of some sort."
"Wow, a convention of great minds! That means there's a chance to get some advanced professions and maybe even discover new ways to improve your skills."
Duran agreed with a nod. "Exactly. It's a can't miss opportunity for some people, but we don't really care about that. Our main goal is to become Evolved. Besides, security in the city will be tightened during the convention, so the city will be boring.
Though the news of the Great Minds Convention came as a surprise, Kaizen was not too excited either, for like Duran, his only goal was to evolve while he was there.
When the airship landed at the docking port, Kaizen gave Duran his share of the money and they exchanged a brief handshake of gratitude. Kaizen disembarked from the airship at the busy Zephyrion docking port and gave Duran and his companions a final nod of thanks for their company. Then they parted ways.
As he explored the first part of the city, looking for a hotel to stay in, Kaizen marveled at the impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
The constant movement of players and NPCs was somewhat similar to the Tretidian capital, as the narrow streets were also lined with shops, food stalls, guild buildings, and meeting places where players gathered to exchange information and quests. And as he walked through the bustling streets, Kaizen knew that the presence of gamers prevailed. They carried advanced weapons and equipment, wore exotic costumes, and were far more rowdy than any NPC. It was obvious that Zephyrion attracted adventurers from all corners of Vrikhodour.
NPCs played supporting roles, from street vendors to tour guides, immersing players in the culture of the city.
As Kaizen walked along, he noticed an electronic system panel displaying announcements and information about the Great Minds Convention that was about to take place in the city. The news of the presence of renowned geniuses caused excitement among the players.
Despite the temptation to attend the convention and get some missions, Kaizen did not give in. He knew that he should focus on training his skills and developing his avatar. However, as always, fate was about to play a trick on Kaizen, because while Kaizen was walking through the alleys, on the main avenue was the one he had as his greatest rival, Teshi, and with Teshi was Igan, Lieutenant of the Order of Dalamyr.