The roads leading to Rey were crowded, and the farmlands around them felt unusually alive. Green hills rolled into the distance, and tall, graceful trees shimmered under the warm sunlight.
Edward pulled out a small piece of dried meat and took a bite while scanning the scenery around him.
"I'm getting tired of this type of food," he muttered under his breath.
As they drew closer to Rey, the clouds thickened, growing darker and heavier until rain finally began to fall. The ground turned to mud, slowing their progress, but after several tiring hours under the downpour, they finally reached their destination: Rey, a beautiful medium-sized city bustling with life.
The city gates were massive—solid metal doors held open by two thick iron chains connected to a gear mechanism above. The walls themselves were built from perfectly arranged stones, forming an imposing and durable barrier. Tall defensive towers rose above the fortifications, each equipped with several ballistae ready to fire.
Inside the city, vibrant ribbons and paper ornaments hung from windows and walls, fluttering gently in the wind. The houses, also made of stone, had sturdy roofs instead of the usual wooden ones—an architectural luxury rare in this region.
Jim looked around carefully, taking in every detail as they made their way toward the main palace in the center of the city. The palace stood apart from the rest, connected by two stone bridges spanning a strong, fast-flowing river that cut through the city. Boats and trade caravans moved along the waterway toward the harbor at the far end.
"I see ships passing through the river," Jim said with curiosity.
"Ah, yes. This is the famous Radolf River," Regis replied proudly. "It's wide enough for trading vessels heading to Meawni and then back toward Slavers' Bay. And the harbor you'll see at the end of the city? Did you know the lake it sits on was made by humans?" Regis chuckled, striking a philosophical pose.
At last, they reached the palace.
"We're all tired and soaked," Regis said, removing his gloves, "but I must ask you two to meet the duchess first. And please… try not to be arrogant or harsh. She's young—and a bit naïve," he added, looking worriedly at the rain-soaked cobblestones beneath their feet. Two stablehands rushed over to take their horses.
The palace guards stood in perfect formation, wearing polished steel plate armor covering their chests, legs, and knees. Beneath it was a leather jacket lined with chainmail protecting their arms and necks. Each carried a wooden shield bearing the sigil of the household—a wide-winged eagle dominating the design—and held a long polearm in one hand, with a sword strapped to their belts. Their discipline and uniformity were impressive.
The iron palace gate was fastened to two massive chains, similar to the ones on the city gates, allowing the two drawbridges to be raised if needed.
"Welcome, sir," said a man in a green cloth outfit. "Shall I call the lady?"
"Yes, please do," Regis answered, stepping toward the main door.
The man bowed respectfully and left.
Inside, the palace was stunning. The floor was made of polished marble, and the walls were lined with perfectly carved wooden panels. After a short walk through the entrance hall, they reached the inner yard—a square courtyard resembling a peaceful garden. White benches surrounded the area, green apple trees stood neatly in rows, and bushes filled the air with the scent of fresh flowers. Grass and soft soil patched the ground between the stone pathways. Gardeners were at sight to, taking care of the small garden.
Eventually, they arrived at a modest hall. A medium-sized table stood in the center, while a smaller table in the corner held a large bowl of water and a neatly folded towel beside it.
As soon as Edward entered the room, he walked straight to the central table and sat on its edge, leaning back slightly, resting his head against his hand. Jim, on the other hand, moved toward one of the windows and gazed outside.
Regis glanced at both of them and sighed.
"Sorry for bringing you here before resting, but if you two want to join the upcoming mission, you must know the details first."
Edward gave a small nod and poured himself water from a pitcher. Jim leaned against the wall, arms crossed, waiting for the young duchess to arrive.
"It's rude to summon someone and not be present when they arrive," Jim remarked dryly.
Regis bowed his head apologetically.
"Please forgive her. She didn't summon you two—I did."
Edward sipped quietly from his cup, eyes wandering across the room. The ceiling design was magnificent, adorned with expensive colors and intricate patterns. The high walls were built with precision and decorated elegantly. The walnut table before him was polished and beautiful.
He remained silent while Jim and Regis drifted into a bizarre conversation about why chickens couldn't fly.
Finally—after several long seconds—the door opened.