A Quick Sun Rises by Thomas Rath Page A

through the gates, the buildings changed as did the road. The road they now walked on was of polished cobblestone that seemed to have purpose in how and where it was placed creating a smoother and easier surface to walk upon. A trough had been carved out in the center allowing a free flow of waste that was directed in its path rather than with the previous two areas where it seemed to run wherever the road took it. The buildings were also made of brick and were all two stories in height. Small shops seemed the norm for the first story while strings of line running over their heads, most covered in laundry, revealed the upstairs as living quarters. As the day was growing older, more people were found on the streets, running about their business, which for most meant opening their shops and preparing for the work day.
    Though not as disorderly as the previous district, there were still a myriad of side streets and alleyways that broke off from the main road and spindled through the rest of the environs. They did pass one other main road that crossed their path going to the left and right and seemed to follow the curve of the city in a great circle.
    The inhabitants still wore clothing that was obviously meant for hard work, but a few more colors and different fabrics were seen among the populace that crossed the streets and moved in and out of the buildings. Some even wore shoes, though most appeared too big or well worn. Thane was starting to get an idea as to how the city worked and what he could expect as they drew closer to the center where he was certain they would find the king.
    As he’d thought, another wall and gate suddenly appeared in the distance. The wall was of cut stone blocks that were fit together and mortared in precision. This time the height was half as tall as the previous wall and was at least four feet thick. One of the thick beamed, iron studded gates was closed forcing any who entered to pass through one side where four guards carefully scrutinized any who approached. This time they were not allowed to pass freely as before.
    A guard dressed plainly in snug leather pants and a cotton tunic with a hammer emblazoned on the front, held up a gloved hand and called the group to halt. The other three gathered behind him, their hands resting on the hilts of their swords that hung sheathed at their waists.
    “What is your business?” the guard called out with a self important sneer.
    Jne’s eyes narrowed slightly but a smile played across her lips and Thane knew she had already picked apart every weakness each of the soldiers had and how she could exploit them to her advantage. Had it been just the two of them, he didn’t doubt that all four would be dead by now with Jne holding two of the swords while he held the other’s she’d have passed to him.
    Advisedly, Ranse made sure that no one brought any weapons with them knowing that to do so would only slow their presently hampered progress even more. Even Jace was without his sword though Thane had a very strong feeling that multiple weapons could still be found upon his person expertly hidden and waiting to be called forth at his command.
    Ranse didn’t say a word but merely pulled a medallion out from under his shirt and flashed it to the guard who immediately placed a hand to his heart and then moved aside as he and the other guards bowed. Thane tried to get a glimpse at what was on the medallion but was blocked by Jack. He did notice Teek’s eyes suddenly grow larger as he grasped at something hidden under his own shirt.
    The street, like the wall, changed as they passed under the archway and was now made of large cut stones that had been placed just so to create a smooth surface worthy of any carriage providing a bump-free ride through the city. Noticeably missing was the trough down the middle of the lane that carried the day’s waste. Instead, Thane noticed small grates on either side of the street that spoke of an underground sewage system.
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