The city was vast and prosperous, built with not only utility in mind, but beauty as well. That was why the city lord's stronghold resembled a temple more than a fortress, with marble pillars supporting carved pediments and exquisite statues watching over the verdant gardens. That was not to say that it wasn't a fortress, though — just from one glance, Shadow could see how easy it was to defend.
The soldiers escorted him and Noctis to the heart of the stronghold, where a great reception hall rested in the shadows, radiant beams of sunlight spilling through high windows.
There, they met a placid man who looked to be in his thirties, wearing a simple white tunic and an azure toga. His auburn hair spilled to his shoulders, supported by a golden band, and his eyes were both enlightened and clear.
