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The road to the Kingdom of Serrand stretched beneath their feet, a well-trodden path that hinted at the bustling life ahead. As the majestic outlines of the city gates came into view, Zara slowed her pace, a thoughtful expression on her face. Turning to Levi and Mike, she voiced a concern that had been nagging at her.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbuicNmay2k
“I’ve been thinking about something,” Zara began, her brow furrowed. “Jorin came from the west, yet he insisted he traveled from the east. It doesn’t add up.”71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡouMY3W9Nmf
Levi nodded, his gaze lingering on the horizon. “I had the same thought. It could be that there’s a secret path used by messengers, or maybe he was deliberately misleading about his route to throw off potential followers.”71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN6FqZnzwNE
Their conversation was interrupted by a groan from Jorin, who stirred on Mike’s shoulders. Blinking against the sunlight, he realized his situation and attempted to wriggle free, his movements more comical than effective.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9C8fbTO9c
“Easy there,” Mike chuckled, setting Jorin down gently. 71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlvR4zKRN1N
Jorin’s cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and annoyance, but Zara’s light-hearted tone eased the tension. “Calm down, Jorin. You’re here, and that’s what matters, right?”71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8TKuXiiEq3
Their arrival didn’t go unnoticed. A pair of guards stationed at the city gates caught sight of the group and couldn’t help but laugh at Jorin’s disheveled state. “Caught in a spell, were you?” one guard teased, earning a glare from Jorin.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2aBZr7IYYl
“They are here, aren’t they? That’s all that matters,” Jorin retorted, adjusting his messenger’s satchel with a huff. The guards shrugged, their smiles broadening as they opened the gates for the visitors.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeWZBiK9LRZ
Mike helped Jorin to his feet, clapping him on the shoulder with a friendly force. “Sorry for the rough treatment earlier,” he said sincerely. Jorin, now regaining his composure, managed a small smile. “No wonder the King and Queen are keen to meet you,” he replied, shaking off the last of his discomfort.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMlUW3PVPQ
The city of Serrand was as grand as its reputation suggested, with towering spires and bustling marketplaces that spoke of a rich cultural heritage and thriving economy. The streets were lined with vibrant flowers and banners, fluttering in the gentle breeze, creating a welcoming atmosphere.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1WeZhWuft
Guided by Jorin, Zara, Levi, and Mike made their way through the city towards the royal hall, a magnificent building that stood at the heart of Serrand. Its architecture was a blend of ancient design and modern elegance, symbolizing the kingdom’s respect for tradition coupled with a forward-thinking mindset.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Hof0tSlIn
As they approached the main entrance, the doors swung open, revealing a lavishly decorated hall filled with the light of crystal chandeliers and the scent of rare incense. Servants in livery bowed as they passed, leading them through the opulent corridors towards the throne room.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCaUW38eXyM
The throne room itself was a sight to behold, with high vaulted ceilings and walls adorned with tapestries depicting the history of Serrand. At the far end of the room, seated on thrones carved from dark wood and inlaid with gold, were the King and Queen of Serrand. Their presence commanded attention, yet their expressions were warm, inviting conversation and collaboration.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMwnhNrCwCe
As Zara, Levi, and Mike stepped forward, the royal couple rose to greet them, their demeanor gracious but measuring. The moment was ripe with possibility, the air charged with the anticipation of discussions that could well determine the future not only of Serrand but of the entire Land of Spade in the face of looming conflict.71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2SlYT1R7ct
“Welcome to Serrand,” the King began, his voice resonant and clear. “We have been expecting you.”71Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvDiuRBO5v
