Verzstani!
How could one begin to define the wonders of such a place? For how charming and simple Andaria was how much more regal and magnificent was its ruling city.
The high stone walls seemed to reach for miles around the well-fortified town.
An imposing castle rose high above the rest of the surrounding buildings. It gleamed amongst the clouds; its many pointed towers reaching high into the heavens.
Laevon and the rest of the Andarian Guard had just arrived and were riding through the central plaza. Many townsfolk saluted them and called shouts of gratitude. The fame of the guardsmen was well known and respected here, and it was not often that the Verzstani people saw their neighboring brothers.
The rest of the journey had been rather uneventful for Laevon.
Captain Brenner had seemed to avoid him at all costs and spoke only when necessary. Laevon felt that there was some unspoken dislike towards him ever since he had confronted his superior.
Schuyler, however, had not stopped talking. “Is this not marvelous, Laevon? I have always dreamed of coming to Verzstani someday!” He was like an eager young child excitedly gazing to and fro at all the wonders surrounding them.
The city was at least three times the size of Andaria and far more clean and elegant. They were like night and day in contrast. The signature crest of the two-headed serpent adorned the streets on every banner. The paved streets were clear of any refuse or poverty. All that met one’s sight presented an image of wealth and prosperity.
Surely the city must be governed under a watchful and excellent eye to be so magnificent.
Laevon was not as easily impressed. Certainly the city was awe-inspiring, but he felt nothing but despair since speaking to the captain. He longed to return to Andaria as soon as it was possible and be rid of this present company.
How could anyone here be trusted? Even Schuyler would speak too freely to others if he were to confide in him. Laevon had no one he could depend on but himself.
Schuyler could sense Laevon’s displeasure as he had never received any response to his ceaseless banter. They now rode in silence until they reached the towering, iron gates that led to the inner courtyard. The guards stationed there stood to attention at their arrival, and with great flourish allowed the Andarians to pass through.
Much to Laevon’s amazement Schuyler had nothing to say and appeared stricken by the fine sight that now met their eyes. The city itself was lovely to behold, but the inner court of the castle was stunning beyond imagination.
Beautiful, well-tended gardens surrounded them with every color that the eye could perceive. Slender trees draped with white blossoms swayed gently in the breeze; their smooth trunks appeared as golden. The ivory chains dragged upon the ground in a snowy canopy of perfumed flowers.
In a similar fashion to the steward’s court there was a large fountain in the center of the grounds, however, this one was far greater in size and accoutrements. A monstrous sea serpent, carved of fine white marble, was set in the center. The eyes were set with radiantly cut emeralds and the gilded scales glistened in the afternoon sun. It was surrounded by smaller carvings of fish and other mythical creatures that poured forth sparkling water from their mouths.
The men dismounted and left their horses with some liverymen who led their steeds to the castle stables. The rest of the guard went forward on foot as their first duty was to meet with the queen upon arrival.
Laevon and Schuyler continued to walk at the back of the company. The flagstone beneath their feet was smooth and created a charming walkway amongst the trim, verdant grass.
The blooming fragrance of summer hung sweetly in the air. Lilacs climbed lazily over trellises, while bellflowers created a purple carpet below them. Laevon‘s oppressive mood was beginning to lessen as the soothing spell of nature seemed to chase away all cares.
Schuyler could hardly contain his excitement any longer. “My first time to Verzstani, Laevon, and I get to enter the castle court!” he whispered enthusiastically. “They say that queen Nerisis is the fairest of all the fair! To gaze upon her beauty could melt the darkest heart of stone. It is her justice alone that keeps these cities so pure.” His face shone radiantly at just the thought of the benevolent queen.
