As they were moving away from the estate, Atticus couldn't help but recall what he learned about the structure of the human domain from Aeryn, during one of his lessons.
The human domain was divided into ten distinct sectors, each designated by a number reflecting its proximity to sector 1, which houses the prestigious academy and the central Human Alliance.
Each sectors, apart from sector 1 which was like a neutral ground, are under the control of influential tier 1 families. Families are categorized into tiers based on their power and prowess. Tier 1 families stand at the pinnacle, boasting a singular paragon-rank individual within their ranks.
Tier 2 families require at least one grandmaster-rank member, while tier 3, at least a master-rank. These sectors, vast in expanse and spanning thousands of kilometers, each hold their own unique influence.
Amid this intricate hierarchy, a formidable mercenary faction emerges, offering their services across the expansive sectors. The faction was led by two paragons.
The overseers of the human domain is the Human Alliance. Comprising all the paragons of humanity, the council serves as the ultimate authority.
Attaining paragon-rank status grants automatic access to this esteemed assembly. The sentinel guardians was headed by a paragon-rank entity who directly answers to the council. It is they who ensure the enforcement of law and order across the human domain.
The Human Alliance Council, aside from wielding significant political power, is also the hub of crucial decisions that influence the entirety of the human domain. This includes not only civilian matters but also the control of the domain's military forces, ensuring a united defense against threats.
The Ravenstein family controls sector 3, situated between sectors 1, 2, and 4. It shares borders with sector 1 in the northeast, sector 2 in the southwest, and sector 4 in the southeast.
Atticus and Ember were seated within a remarkable marvel of technology, a hover car. Its exterior was adorned with intricate, in-carved runes, each contributing to the car's ability to effortlessly hover above the ground.
The very essence of magic and science converged within these runes, allowing the vehicle to defy gravity itself.
A trio of accompanying hover vehicles encircled them, forming a protective entourage. The entourage moved in synchronized harmony, the vehicles seamlessly gliding through the air at an impressive speed.
As they departed from the confines of the Ravenstein estate, perched atop a sizable hill, Atticus' eyes were drawn to the breathtaking sight that unfolded before him.
From this elevated vantage point, the city sprawled beneath like a canvas of wonder. The magnificent urban landscape stretched out before him, a harmonious blend of diverse architectural styles.
Hover cars weaved through the air in graceful patterns, forming a mesmerizing dance of modern technology. Their sleek forms added a touch of futurism to the scene. Tall, elegant buildings adorned the streets, each a masterpiece of design, creating a skyline that seemed to reach for the heavens.
Atticus's gaze traversed the enchanting cityscape, revealing a striking fusion of elements. The air carried whispers of fantasy magic, evident in the ethereal embellishments that adorned some of the structures. Hints of medieval charm added a touch of timelessness, creating a unique and captivating blend of eras.
The urban lifestyle pulsed with vitality, evident in the hustle and bustle of people going about their day. Markets thrived, and plazas bustled with activity, painting a vibrant picture of community and progress.
Inside the comfort of the hover car, Atticus's gaze wandered out of the window, his eyes scanning the lively scene beyond. The bustling city unfolded before him, a tapestry of daily life woven with vibrant threads of activity.
People moved with purpose, some hurrying, others leisurely exploring the stalls that adorned the streets. The hum of commerce filled the air as transactions took place, and the atmosphere thrived with the energy of a vibrant marketplace.
The hover car Atticus and Ember occupied, along with the accompanying trio, drew the attention of the passing crowd. Among the multitude, a couple's interaction was particularly funny. The wife playfully slapped her husband on the head, her frustration evident.
"Didn't you promise me I'd get that life?" the wife chided.
Her husband, scratching his head, responded, "What did you do that for? You will, honey. I just invested in something, it'll go big soon!"
Another slap followed as the woman exclaimed, "That's a Ponzi scheme, you fool!"
Turning his attention away from the street, Atticus was met with Ember's inquisitive gaze.
"Where are we going?" she asked
Her question hung in the air, prompting a slightly embarrassed response from him. "I don't know," he admitted, his cheeks tinged with embarrassment.
Ember's continued look prompted him to shift his gaze elsewhere, and a silent understanding passed between them.
The drive continued, and as they navigated through the city, Atticus's eyes caught sight of an inviting building adorned with an arcade sign.
Eagerly, he instructed the driver to head in that direction. As they arrived at the arcade, their presence turned heads, drawing whispers and curious glances from the crowd.
Stepping out of the hover car, Atticus exuded a striking handsomeness, while Ember's beauty was truly enchanting, coupled with their signature white hair, they were breathtaking.
Conversations swirled in the background as people recognized them. "Look, they're from the Ravenstein family," someone remarked. A girl added, "He looks so handsome! Ahh!"
'This will take some getting used to' Atticus thought. He found it quite unusual to be treated almost like a celebrity, even though he was essentially a stranger to those people.
His distinctive white hair certainly attracted a lot of attention, and the heavy security detail accompanying him only added to it.
Remaining unfazed, Atticus and Ember maintained their composed expressions, unperturbed by the attention. With a sense of purpose, they continued their stride toward the arcade, eager to explore the arcade.
