Kapitel 25: Imperial Capital
The journey to the Imperial Capital was a blend of serene landscapes and palpable excitement. Thanks to the existence of spatial portals, the travel time was significantly shortened. However, due to security concerns, very few spatial portals provided direct access to the heart of the Empire.
One such portal was from our city to a village that would get us on the road to the Imperial Capital.
The guards to the portal bowed before activating it, causing space to distort within the rings of the portal as spatial magic was being used. Our carriage and knights passed through it.
I felt space around me twisting and distorting as distance was cut in short and we travelled far.
We found ourselves on a well-paved road that meandered through vast, rolling fields of wildflowers, their colors painting a vibrant canvas under the bright blue sky. The soft murmur of the horses' hooves was occasionally broken by the distant call of birds or the rustling of leaves.
"Father, do you see that?" Elara pointed to a herd of wild horses galloping gracefully across the plains, their manes flowing like waves in the wind.
"Indeed, Elara," Father replied, his eyes crinkling with a smile. "A rare sight and a reminder of the untamed beauty that still exists in our lands."
The carriage soon emerged from the forest into lively villages where cobblestone streets bustled with activity. Children played games while vendors called out their wares, their vibrant stalls filled with everything from fresh produce to finely crafted goods. The air was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of street food, mingling with the cheerful chatter of villagers.
"Freshly baked bread!" a baker called, holding up a warm loaf.
Father purchased a loaf, breaking it into pieces and handing them out. The bread was warm and crusty, a simple yet delightful treat.
"Thank you, Father," I said, savoring the taste. "It's delicious."
"You're welcome, Lancelot," he replied, smiling. "It's important to appreciate the simple pleasures, even on a journey."
The road then climbed into the hills, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. From these heights, the empire unfolded like a patchwork quilt, fields and forests interwoven with rivers and villages.
"Isn't it magnificent?" Father said, his voice filled with pride. "Our empire, so vast and beautiful."
I nodded, my eyes drinking in the sight. "It's more than I ever imagined."
As we descended from the hills, the terrain flattened, and the road widened. The number of travelers increased, with merchants leading heavily laden carts and knights riding in gleaming armor. The air buzzed with the energy of those heading toward the heart of the Empire.
"How much further, Father?" I asked, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness.
"Not long now, Lancelot," he replied, his gaze steady. "The Imperial Capital is just over these hills. We must be ready for the grandeur and the challenges it presents."
The carriage rattled over cobblestones as we passed through bustling squares and under ornate archways, each bearing the crest of the Imperial Family. The sounds of the city were overwhelming: the clatter of horse hooves, the hum of conversation, and the distant tolling of bells.
"We're almost there," Mother said, her voice tinged with awe. "The heart of the Empire."
As our carriage crested the final hill, the Imperial Capital unveiled itself in all its majestic splendor. Nestled within a vast valley, the city appeared like a jewel in a crown, its grandeur evident even from a distance. Encircling the entire metropolis were towering walls that pulsated with an otherworldly glow, a testament to the powerful enchantments woven into their very stones.
These walls, made from a mix of ancient stone and shimmering crystal, stood tall and imposing. Their surfaces were etched with intricate runes that seemed to dance and shift, pulsating with magical energy. The runes were not just decorative; they were part of the city's formidable defense system, enhancing the strength and resilience of the walls against any potential attack.
Above the walls, a full spherical translucent barrier enveloped the city, shimmering like a giant, protective dome. This barrier, a marvel of arcane engineering, glowed faintly in the daylight, a spectrum of colors playing across its surface like the northern lights. It was a constant reminder of the Empire's power and the vigilance required to maintain peace and order.
From our vantage point, we could see the labyrinthine streets and grand buildings that made up the city's core. The architecture was a harmonious blend of ancient and modern styles, with towering spires and domed rooftops interspersed with sleek, contemporary structures. Every building seemed to tell a story, with intricate carvings and vibrant murals depicting the Empire's rich history and culture.
At the city's center stood the Imperial Palace, an awe-inspiring edifice of white marble and gold, its spires reaching towards the heavens. The palace was surrounded by lush gardens, their greenery a stark contrast to the stone and metal of the city.
As our carriage approached the grand gates of the Imperial Capital, the walls' pulsating magic became even more apparent. The runes etched into the stones glowed brighter, their rhythmic patterns almost hypnotic. The gates themselves were massive, made of a dark, enchanted metal that seemed to hum with power. Guards clad in gleaming armor stood at attention, their expressions stern and vigilant.
"Welcome to the Imperial Capital," one of the guards said, his voice firm yet respectful. "Please present your documents for entry."
Father handed over our papers, and after a thorough inspection, the gates slowly creaked open, revealing the bustling city beyond. As we passed through the threshold, I felt a subtle tingling sensation—a sign of the city's protective enchantments acknowledging our presence.
'How impressive,' I thought, 'Does it mean that if one isn't verified, these enchantments prevent them from entering the capital?'
Inside the walls, the grandeur of the Imperial Capital unfolded around us. The streets were wide and paved with smooth, polished stones that sparkled faintly under the sunlight. People of all walks of life thronged the thoroughfares—nobles in fine attire, merchants peddling their wares, and common folk going about their daily routines. The air was filled with a symphony of sounds: the clatter of hooves on cobblestones, the melodic calls of street vendors, and the lively chatter of the city's inhabitants.
"Look at all the shops," Elara exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder. "I've never seen so many in one place!"
Father smiled. "The Imperial Capital is the heart of commerce and culture. You'll find goods and services here that you won't see anywhere else."
As we made our way deeper into the city, the architecture continued to impress. Buildings of varying heights and designs lined the streets, each one more elaborate than the last. Ornate facades adorned with sculptures and frescoes depicted scenes of imperial triumphs and mythic tales. Balconies overflowed with colorful flowers, their sweet fragrance mingling with the scent of fresh bread and exotic spices wafting from the market stalls.
"Isn't it magnificent?" Mother said, her voice filled with awe. "The artistry here is unparalleled."
We crossed one of the several bridges spanning wide canals, the water reflecting the vibrant life above. Graceful boats glided along the waterways, ferrying passengers and goods with ease. The canals added a sense of tranquility to the bustling city, their gentle currents a soothing counterpoint to the urban clamor.
Children played along the canal banks, their laughter ringing out as they chased each other. Street performers entertained passersby with feats of acrobatics and music, their performances drawing appreciative crowds.
"This city is truly alive," I murmured, taking in the sights and sounds. "It's like nothing I've ever seen."
Soon enough, we reached the mansion we would stay at from now.
It was our new home.
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
-- Power-
Rangliste 
-- Power-
Stein