The castle was magnificent, a true fortress. I was afraid to oversimplify its grandeur if I ever had to describe it.
I counted twelve thick, round towers dwarfing everything below them connected by huge, solid walls made of obsidian. Grand windows are scattered here and there around the walls in seemingly perfect symmetry, along with symmetric crenellations for archers and artillery, though I saw nothing as such around there.
Statues of men dressed like kings lined up outside of the castle gates on a beautiful bridge across the river. It appeared to be the only easy way in, but easy is kind of very relative here if you count on magic.
"These serve as reminders of the past, dear. Our people has faced a number of wars, most of which we always won. Thankfully we live in peace now." Elsa said, noticing the look of wonder on my face.
We crossed the river and reached a vast colossal gate with great metal doors. It opened to a great garden with amazing flowers.
"Welcome, enchantress." a man welcomed me at the door and my jaw hit the floor. Oh my God, this guy has funny legs ... and horns!
"Wouah, I-beg your pardon. I'm just," I blushed furiously and he grinned. "Shocked." I gulped.
His hair was curly and he was tall and muscular and he laughed, quite amused by my reaction.
"You are a satyr." I breathed.
"Yes, princess. I'm very pleased to meet with you, my name is Pilan." he said brightly, offering me his hand. He was firm, the complete opposite of me.
"Pilan is the last surviver of an extinct race. Gloomspire has been his home ever since ... forever. He's a noble person-one of the few I know." Elsa said.
Angus smiled at the guy. "How are you man?" they hugged firmly.
"Long time, brother."
"That's true."
"Ah well, every journey starts with a single step, my friend. I know you've been busy."
Pilan glanced my direction. "Your friend is waiting for you two in the main hall. I look forward to speak with you again, enchantress." he smiled and fairly bowed.
We entered the huge hall of the castle. It was as breathtaking as I expected.
Modest braziers hang from each of the eight ivory columns lighting up most of the hall and their light wrapped the hall in a warm radiance.
The illustrations of a legendary victory on the terraced ceiling danced in flickering light while sculptures looked down upon the marble floor of the ceremonious hall.
"You will never cease to impress me." I whispered to myself.
"Witches love architecture. There used to be many of their oeuvres. They faded however due to bad maintenance and war." Elsa informed.
We reached the end of the hall. Anthony sat waiting for us in front of a small coffee table, reading-an ancient book, judging by the hard cover.
I strode towards him. "Anthony!" I gave him a small hug.
"Good afternoon, little doll." he greeted, surprised. "Are you okay?"
"I am, certainly." I smiled, gladly. "You found Duncan, where is he? I need to talk to him"
He ran a hand into his hair in frustration. "He refused to follow us here. Says he's staying at his uncle's house in the north." he said, hesitantly. "I'm sorry, I couldn't do much to change his mind."
YOU ARE READING
Venom
Fantasy"You almost got me" he admitted. "Good to know." I breathed. "Yes, but you're still too slow and too aggressive. You should let your opponent attack first." "Oh, really" I raised my eyebrows, annoyed. His chest pressed hard against mine and our...
