Valadel

Chapter XI

The trio of Tytus, Danticus and Jazmyn rode on their horses, both rangers on their guard, cautious to avoid another event like that of their first trip and that of three nights ago. Danticus could see Jorden in the distance. The great stone city looked like a simple block from his view.

"I do feel like royalty, if you don't mind me saying. A woman being escorted to the most powerful kingdom in the world, even if the city is a bit old," Jazmyn jested.

Tytus smiled and they resumed traveling. The days and nights had gone by, each almost being the same, thanks to Tytus. Only at night were they able to talk, and that's if they were lucky to avoid a wolf or bandit attack.

"Jorden...the heart of the Four kingdoms. It's not as impressive as Valdor, but still quite a city," said Jazmyn

"It's the oldest kingdom in the land, the city named after our first King. It's a stone fortress meant for war," said Danticus.

Jazmyn shrugged. "I think Valdor is a much more rich and beautiful kingdom. One meant for scholars and artists."

"And Jorden is meant for warriors and ale brewers. It depends upon your culture," said Danticus.

They resumed the rest of the ride in silence. Upon his horse, Danticus sat atop the furs of the Snow wolf. Tytus hadn't taken any souvenirs from the battle, only his battle scars, he said. Within the hour, they reached the city of Jorden.

They dismounted their horses and left them in the stables, quick to meet with Gallador. They walked through Jorden, with Jazmyn making many observations along the way.

"This stone is over a thousand years old. Remarkable. Can you imagine Jorik walking through this very city? It's amazing."

"Yes, yes. It is amazing," said Tytus.

"I don't think you appreciate it as much as I do," she said.

"I did...when I first saw it. Now, the city is nothing new. Quite the contrary, actually."

"I've been here several times and still feel that way when I set foot in any city," she said.

"I've killed hundreds of men, and I don't feel the same way when I slay another," said Tytus.

Jazmyn rolled her eyes at him, but said nothing as they approached the harbor. There had been a few guards there, leaning along the sides of the railings. They bolted upright when Tytus came into view, but he waved them off. "And there it is. The kingdom in the water." Tytus pointed to the structure far out in the distance, just barely visible.

Jazmyn mouth dropped and her eyes widened. "That's...amazing! She leaned over the side of the railing, an inch further and she would have fallen into the bay. "This is physically impossible! How? When? Why!?"

"When? About thirty days ago. How? Don't know. Why? Don't know. But we'll learn more when we're inside the actual castle."

Excitement came over Jazmyn's face. "We're going in the castle?! Oh that is splendid! Where is Magus Irving? I must speak with him immediately."

"Check the record keep. That's likely where he'll be," said Danticus

"Okay. Well, thank you rangers. It was nice getting to know you both. Especially you, Danticus," she said, smiling at him. Danticus smiled back as Jazmyn ran off to meet with Irving.

Danticus stared sympathetically at Tytus. He noticed and rolled his eyes.

"What? Enough of that, I never liked her company in the first place. To bothersome for my taste. I mean, begging us to not kill the thorn wolves? Have some sense woman!"