Choices and a Chance Meeting (Rhuryc)

[Mason Sinovian]

Season of Fall, Day 35, 510 AV Mason opened the door and stepped into the busy corridor, leaving behind whatever it was that just happened in the Employment Office. Waving farewell to the still emphatic, Aeynsa, Mason turned to continue on his way. Passing by and following people from all different origins, he was extremely curious about how so many people could live in one area and not get into conflict. Of course, his experiences primarily came from living on a farm where most people did the same thing day in and day out and everyone just had to know everyone else's business. Following the stream of traffic, Mason became lost in thought and observation. He noticed that no one really made eye contact, that everyone was focused on getting from one point to the next. Following suit seemed like the wisest choice. "Cheap essentials here! Come check it out! Half price cloth bolts, here!" yelled one man off to the right. He was offset by another man to his left who was yelling about some strange homemade food from some distant land. Hawkers continued shouting, trying to entice people to check out their wares, which was certainly working because the majority of vendors had clusters of people crowding around. He would of been mingling with the crowd, looking and buying, but his 100gms from his grandfather weighed heavily in his pouch. Deciding it was time for a change in scenery, Mason moved more pointedly through the crowd looking for a sign that could point him in a new direction. After some time he reached an intersection with a set of side by side staircases, one up and one down. Moving out of the the crowd of people, Mason moved towards the side of the corridor, so he could see where the stairs led to. The staircase to the left was going down to the 4th tier and had a sign telling the citizens that they could find the Great Bazaar and a number of other places within. The staircase to the right, was going up to the 2nd tier and had a sign labeled Government facilities. "There are too many people here...I need to get out..go outside.." said Mason despairingly. "Uhh...What's that son?" came a scratchy voice from behind. "Oh. Uh. Nothing..." said Mason turning around realizing he had spoke out-loud. Looking at the older man who spoke to him, then looking elsewhere, Mason saw a sign pointing to a nearby gate for the Ironworks. The Ironworks used to be a place his father would take him every time they traveled from the fields to Syliras. It's been nearly 10 years since he has smelled the forge and heard the hissing of hot iron in water. His father now brought his brother, leaving Mason to other details. Making his way through the bustle of the corridors, Mason passed through a gate and left the Citadel proper. Following the sounds of hammer on anvil, Mason found himself becoming less anxious as the sun, clouds and blue sky lulled him into familiarity.