Chương 88: Ch 87. The Valley of the Vale

(Unedited)

Having left the castle on the back of a Zebstrika, the three of them departed from the castle into the castle town. The valley was a short distance from the castle town, yet they still needed to pass through most of the town to reach there.

With the castle wall far behind them, they were soon surrounded by bustling streets. It had just become noon, as people swarmed the town square, as vendors had put up their stall to sell produce and items to the inhabitants.

From the most common produce to luxury items, they had it all as people from the lowest of standings to nobility were crowding the small stall with increasing interest.

Even now, merchants were still coming, as they moved to put out their own wares as well.

It wasn't the first time Ares had seen such a sight, as he had been to the castle town often during his stay, just like early in the morning this same day, yet it still amazed him, even when he had become accustomed to bustling cities from his usual era.

"As you can see, the people are thriving under our royal father's rule, with merchants and foreigners coming and going by the day. Even now, talks of trade are still ongoing, as recently a land called Hoenn has come from afar to establish trade."

William said as he gestured to the people around them. There were a multitude of people dressed in different garb, from dessert wear to simple pants and shirts. This fact made it clear how wide the diversity was at the current time.

Another sight didn't escape Ares's sight either.

A bit in front and behind them, a group of guards were silently shadowing them, another group already dispersing the growing crowd further down the street. Seems like they were better protected than Ares had thought.

Yet William didn't seem to notice it, as he continued on the previous subject.

"With the sudden influx of people from all over the world, pokemon unknown to this land have been spotted as well, though few in number they may be, they are still a fascinating sight to behold."

William nodded at his words, as a reminiscing smile adorned his face. He seemed truly fascinated, the appearance of a prince slowly fading as a curious young man took his place.

Adrian just scoffed, as he turned to the crowd as well.

"While the increase in trade is good and all, that does not mean there aren't any downsides to this improvement of our economy. Ruffians have started to stir up trouble as well, as envoys and merchants from beyond our borders are trying to bribe their way in. Public security has worsened since our borders have let these people enter our land. If I had a say in it, I would decrease the amount of foreigners allowed into the city. At least until we are certain they aren't a hazard to our safety. And even then, only merchants and envoys would be allowed in. Sightseeing tourists can remain outside of our borders."

Having said his piece, Adrian spurred Zebstrika on as he darted down the street towards the castle gate. He seemed all but happy about the subject William had been speaking about.

William smiled wryly, as he remained next to Ares.

"Don't mind him. He is just worried, even more so when he is responsible for the security inside the castle town. While envoys arrive and secure trade and improve foreign relations, it is indeed paired with problems such as this. Though I suppose it would be a merit if things can be resolved without such measures. Our land needs to remain appealing to outsiders if we want to establish good relationships with other lands."

Patting his own Zebstrika gently on the neck, he too increased his pace.

"Let's catch up with Adrian, before he rebukes us for our tradiness."

Chuckling, he spurred his Zebstrika on as at grew to a boisterous laughter, waving in excitement for Ares to hurry up and follow.

"What took you two so long? We could have been at the lake by now."

Adrian said filled with not just a little agitation. His Zebstrika stomped on the ground, getting skittish from Adrian's behavior, yet remained docile for the most part.

William just waved Adrian's argument aside as he passed him by without a word, gesturing to the wide area around him as he turned to Ares.

"Behold, the Valley of the Vale. A lustrous land blessed by our Guardian dragon through the Dragon Force. Greenery and produce grow in abundance, as those who live her thrive due to it. As for the land surrounding us, let me elaborate as we continue."

William steered his steed down the hill, as cities, a lake and mountain regions were visible in the distance, as were the far off forests and hills. Adrian followed quietly behind them, his agitation having subsided as he watched on in a silent brooding manner.

"We are currently traversing the central part of the Valley, the Ivory grasslands, known for their abundance in Ivory Sprig, a small flower that is a main component in fever reducing medication. A dozen miles south from here is the Starfall lake, which is home to the largest amount of water pokemon in this region. Bordering the lake is the city our Queen Mother is from, Arestelle. It is a major port city responsible for our food, as trade is one of the main income there."

As they traversed the Ivory grassland, they could see Bouffalant and Zebstrika grazing on the side in herds, remaining a far distance from each other.

"I suggest steering clear from the Bouffalant. They are currently in their mating season and attack those who come too close. Even with the guards protecting us, there is still a chance we might be overrun by their herd if we draw near."

Adrian chipped in, grumbling silently as he pointed to the distant herd of Bouffalant.

"Noted. Thanks for the heads-up."

Ares commented, seeing more than a few Bouffalant young grazing in the encirclement of the herd. He definitely should stay far from them.

"I just don't want to explain to father why our guest is missing a limb when we return. Better to be warned than to regret it later."

Adrian scoffed, once more falling silent.

William didn't comment on Adrian's current attitude and phrasing, as he continued on with his explanations.

"Well then, as I said before, we now find ourselves in the Ivory Grasslands, the central part of our Valley. North from here are the Wincroft Grasslands, known for its severe weather conditions, as it rains more often than not. East of here is the Gretway Ridge, with in the distance the Spire Mountain. There isn't much known about the Spire Mountain, as not many have traversed there and lived to tell the tale."

In the far distance, white mountain peaks could be seen, clouds drifting aimlessly around it to hide the very tip of the mountain beneath their pearly white shapes.

"Continueing on, south from here is the Baktarra Steppe, though it would be more apt to call it a dessert, as there is little left of the steppes to call it that. And last but not least, the western part of the valley, the Grimlock Forest. I would suggest avoiding that place. Three strong pokemon have made the forest their home. It's too dangerous to step foot in there."

With all the explanations said and done with, they made their way to the Starfall Lake, though if Ares had to say he wasn't curious about the other parts of the Valley, he would surely be lying. He couldn't wait to explore if he had the chance too.

Maybe later, when all the hubbub had settled down.

As William showed all kinds of plants to him, Ares noticed Adrian was rather quiet. The younger twin just stared at the lake just a bit away from them, seemingly deep in thought. It was unusual, as Adrian had been quite vocal about this outing.

Now he was too quiet, causing Ares to pay more attention to him than before.

This also allowed him to notice something questionable as well.

Where had all the guards gone, who were supposed to escort and protect them?

SUY NGHĨ CỦA NGƯỜI SÁNG TẠO
LaughingSnowFox

An auxiliary chapter has been posted with the locations and information about the layout of the Valley of the Vale. If you are interested, do take a look. It's all made up, but I hope it will contribute to the story.

Creation is hard, cheer me up!

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