Along the way to the capital, Kylian noticed a slow transition from the simple rusticity of Arkhaven to the sophisticated glory of the capital, Elmsworth. Along the route, there were several large towns where they traveled, distinguished by their majestic castles and thriving markets. The landscape became more agricultural areas and urbanized settlements than rolling fields and unbroken forest.

  The streets in the towns were paved, and the buildings became more complex. The streets hummed with life, from blacksmiths clanging hammers to anvil in their hearths to vendors selling their goods. Kylian was amazed by the rising indicators of prosperity and advancement.

  On the eighth day, when they drew near the border of Elmsworth, Kylian was shocked at the stark contrast. Even the rural villages around the capital were linked with the central city by well-surfaced stone roads. The fields were wide and neatly structured, with irrigation systems and working farmers.

  The journey from the rural periphery to the city's grandeur was awe-inspiring. The capital rose in the distance, its high spires and strong walls visible against the horizon. Kylian's heart pounded with excitement.

  As a young knight, Kylian was both excited and nervous when he finally arrived at the gates of Elmsworth. The entrance was guarded by experienced soldiers, their stern faces and polished armor exuding authority. Alden, acting as his porter, handled the formalities with ease.

  The guard inspected the documents and then nodded, motioning them to follow him. "Welcome to Elmsworth, Sir Kylian. Please, come this way."

  Kylian was led along a side passageway, avoiding the jammed main entrance. Immediate entry was reserved for knights and other privileged personnel. Through the gate, Kylian's senses were assailed by the chaos of sights, sounds, and odors in the teeming city.

  Elmsworth was a wonder. The roads were broad and neat, smooth and stone-paved, lined with imposing structures and stores filled with brightly colored merchandise. Wherever he looked, he could see neat wooden buildings with exquisite architecture. To Kylian's surprise, some stores here were as large as the lord's estate in Arkhaven, some even bigger. The prosperity of the capital was evident from its crowd, as sounds of clinking coins, peddlers bellowing their bargains, and children's laughter in the squares filled the air. Charming carriages passed by, carrying nobles dressed in finer clothes. Despite Noble's horse carriages running in the streets, there was no halt in the regular activity of the city as there was enough space for the civilians to walk freely by.

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  Kylian was fascinated by the multicultural population and the richness of the buildings. Wherever he gazed, he saw something new and intriguing. The city was full of life and hope.

  Alden took Kylian on the roads leading to the inner city toward the House Arlyn estate. It was close to the king's palace and had the high noble class residing in it. There was more lavishness here than Kylian ever thought existed. The estates were huge, and there were dense gardens, fine fountains, and giant mansions. While entering the inner city, he saw that the number of people around him had largely diminished and that there was a subtle shift in the mood.

  "Welcome to the inner city, Sir Kylian," Alden replied, nodding toward the magnificent environment.

  The inner city was the kingdom's seat of nobility. Every noble household possessed an estate here, their principal home other than their forts and castles in their territories. The streets became wider and bordered with well-tended trees and elaborately designed lampposts, and the ambiance was that of refinement. The buildings here were all made of stone with intricate carvings showcasing the majesty of each household.

  Kylian absorbed the majesty, awed but a little disoriented. The inhabitants of this place walked with a certain poise and confidence that was born of their privileged environment. Guards walked the perimeter, protecting the neighborhood's safety and exclusivity.

  "House Arlyn's mansion is just up ahead," Alden said, nodding toward a particularly opulent mansion. "It's one of the best in Elmsworth."

  Kylian's heart pounded as they made their way to the estate. The palace of House Arlyn was breathtaking. High, white stone walls enclosed the estate, arched windows, and delicate carvings. The gardens were well kept, full of colorful flowers and neatly trimmed hedges.

  A guard met them at the gate, escorting them through the immaculately landscaped grounds to the main entrance. Inside, the palace was equally as impressive, with marble floors and grand staircases. He escorted Kylian to his quarters. The room was large and well-appointed, a definite improvement over his last stay. Once he had settled in, Kylian was escorted to the knight's office to see his superior.

  His commanding officer, Sir Reginald, was a grizzled knight with a stern demeanor. "Welcome, Sir Kylian," he declared, his tone firm but not cruel. "You have been posted to watch over the manor of House Arlyn. See that you do your job well, and you will be welcome here among us."

  Kylian dipped his head in respect, his chest pounding with pride. "As you say, Sir."