Keldon nodded in agreement. "Of course, we'll make sure you have a mount. We'll be departing in twenty minutes, so gather your things and meet us at the lower courtyard."
When Ren arrived found the courtyard of the fortified castle city was a grand and impressive sight. It was a large open space surrounded by towering walls of reinforced limestone. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings and heraldry of House Elsdragon. The limestone was a pale gray color that seemed to have a smooth and slightly glossy finish. The walls were punctuated by tall, narrow windows that let in streams of light, making the space feel open and airy. The reinforced limestone walls were thicker and more robust, made to withstand any kind of attack.
In the center of the courtyard stood a raised stone platform, which served as a gathering place for the guards. The platform was constructed of the same pale gray reinforced limestone as the walls and was surrounded by a low stone balustrade. The platform was large enough to accommodate all forty guards, if not more and it was where Keldon would give orders and lead them into battle.
The courtyard was meticulously tended, with lush green lawns and colorful gardens that were filled with a variety of flowers and shrubs. The gardens were tended by a team of gardeners who were responsible for keeping the space beautiful and well-maintained. A cobblestone pathway wound its way through the gardens, leading to the platform, which was the focal point of the courtyard.
The guardsmen assembled at the courtyard, standing at attention on the platform, their armor and weapons gleaming in the sunlight. They were a formidable sight, and the people of the castle-city looked upon them with respect and admiration. As Ren approached he saw that the guardsmen were already mounted and ready to depart. Approximately forty guards accompanying Ren and Keldon were a mix of seasoned veterans and newer recruits. The veterans were men and women who had served in the guards for several years and had seen their fair share of battles. They were skilled fighters, and they moved with a sense of confidence and purpose. They were armed with swords and shields, and they wore armor that was well-worn but well-maintained.
The newer recruits, on the other hand, were still learning the ropes. They were eager and determined, but they also had a sense of nervousness and uncertainty. They were armed with swords and shields as well, but they wore armor that was newer and shinier than that of the veterans. They were still learning how to move and fight in formation, but they were eager to prove themselves.
All of the guards were mounted on strong horses that were well-trained for battle. They were all dressed in the same colors, which were the colors of House Elsdragon, and several carried a standard bearing the crest of House Elsdragon. At first sight they appeared to be a formidable force, giving a sense of they determination to protect the people and bring the rogue legionnaires to justice.
Keldon approached him and handed him the reins of a large black stallion. "This is Shadow. He's a strong and reliable horse, and I think you'll find him to be a good match for you."
