Despite the fortress-like structure of the Obsidian Ants' architecture, the market was anything but lifeless. The place buzzed with motion and energy. Towers of obsidian gleamed with faint luminescence, and thick mist curled through the alleyways, illuminated by bioluminescent fungi. Antfolk of all sizes scurried between stalls, bartering with hardened precision.
Some Ants were tall and armored, almost like humanoid tanks—clearly warriors—while others, smaller and more agile, worked as traders and craftsmen. Their chittering language mixed with broken Common as they interacted with outlanders like Leon's group.
"This is amazing," Millim said, her eyes wide as she ran up to a stall filled with hovering crystal insects—tame "Echo Beetles" that recorded sound and could replay it in song or speech. "Weird, but cute!"
