I am lost. (Gojo Satoru x Arifureta)

Chapter 3 | Coastal City

The sun was setting over the coastal city of Erisen, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and purple. The salty sea breeze carried the scents of fish, spices, and the faint aroma of exotic flowers from the nearby markets. It would have been a delightful scene, if not for the sound of violent retching coming from a nearby rooftop.

Yue, her golden hair messed and pale face even more pale, was bent over the edge of a building, emptying the contents of her stomach for what felt like the hundredth time. Hajime stood beside her, rubbing her back in soothing circles, while Satoru Gojo looked on with a mix of amusement and mild concern.

"You know," Satoru mused, tapping his chin thoughtfully, "I really thought you two would have gotten used to the Warp Drive by now. It's not that bad, is it?"

Hajime shot him a glare that could have melted steel. "Not that bad? We just traveled halfway across an ocean in the blink of an eye. Our insides feel like they've been turned inside out and back again!"

Satoru shrugged, his ever-present smile widening. "Well, it was either that or spend weeks at sea. I thought this was the more efficient option."

Yue, having finally stopped heaving, turned to face them. Her crimson eyes, usually sharp and alert, were slightly glazed over. "Efficient, yes. Pleasant? Absolutely not."

Hajime helped Yue to her feet, supporting her as she swayed slightly. "Next time, we're taking the long way. I don't care if it takes months. No more of your space-bending shenanigans, Satoru."

"Oh, come now," Satoru chuckled, "Besides, look at the bright side - we're back in civilization!"

As if to emphasize his point, Satoru gestured grandly at the sprawling city below them. Erisen was a bustling port town, its streets a maze of colorful buildings and winding canals. The harbor was filled with ships of all sizes, from small fishing boats to grand merchant vessels. The air was alive with the sounds of haggling merchants, laughing children, and the occasional squawk of seagulls.

Hajime had to admit, it was a welcome sight after their harrowing experiences on the nameless island and at sea. "Fine," he conceded, "I guess it is good to be back among people. Even if they're not exactly our people."

Yes. It's a fairly organized city for one half populated by Dagons—a race of beastmen which is discriminated by humankind. Yue, having regained some of her composure, nodded in agreement. "We should find an inn. Rest, gather information, and rest."

"Excellent idea!" Satoru clapped his hands together. "And perhaps we can sample some of the local cuisine. I'm particularly interested in trying whatever that delightful aroma wafting up from the market is."

The trio wove through the crowded streets, drawing curious glances from the locals. Their odd appearance - Hajime with his white hair, patched eye, and mechanical arm, Yue with her doll-like beauty, and Satoru with his blindfolded eyes and otherworldly presence - marked them as clear outsiders. Unordinary ones.

"We should probably try to blend in more," Hajime muttered, noticing the stares. "The last thing we need is to draw unwanted attention."

"Tell that to yourself, gundam."

Yue nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the crowd. "Perhaps we can find some local clothing. And we'll need to exchange some of our valuables for the local currency."

Satoru, seemingly relishing the attention they were attracting, was busy examining a street vendor's wares. "Oh, look at these!" he exclaimed, holding up a gaudy, feathered hat. "Wouldn't this look splendid on me?"

Hajime pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. "Satoru, focus. We need to find lodging, not play dress-up."

As they continued through the streets, the sun dipped below the horizon, and the city's nightlife began to stir. Lanterns were lit along the canals, casting dancing reflections on the water. The smell of grilled seafood and exotic spices grew stronger, making their stomachs growl.