Alex, the Hearth Fire
boosted
The merchant caravan paused on the road, beholding the distant golden city.
The gates were wide open, yet few carts could be seen entering nor exiting.
"What's the hold up," called one of the traders further back.
The Lookout whispered uneasily to the Head Guard and the Caravan Leader, as impatience slowly rustled down the line.
"Rats, cats, dogs, crows and even flies are fleeing this place."
"Shame, it was once great. Let's move past."