The Althean dock came into focus as the ship finally made landfall. Kazi's eyes widened as she took the scene before her. The Kingdom of Althea was a pristine white wonderland that gleamed in the afternoon sun.
The buildings, were made from pure marble and rose gold pillars, covered with carvings of angels and cherubs. The streets were paved with glittering silver and gold, shimmering in the sunlight. Fountains, filled with crystal clear water, spouted into the air, cascading down in sparkling arcs. The air was filled with the scents of flowers and baked bread, the sound of laughter and music drifting on the breeze. Even the clouds that floated overhead seemed to glow with an ethereal light.
This was not a city; it was a vision. A vision of a realm so perfect, so ethereal, that it could only exist in the minds of angels themselves. Everywhere Kazi looked, she saw beauty that seemed to defy the laws of nature.
Althea was at least twenty times the size of Niameda. Unlike the rustic and cottage-like capital of her homeland, this city was a shining testament to the architectural prowess of angels. Every structure here was a marvel of craftsmanship and artistry, with designs that seemed to dance across every surface. The buildings soared into the sky, their spires piercing the clouds, their walls covered with statues and mosaics that depicted scenes of peace and harmony.
Most striking of all were the Altheans themselves. Tall and slender, they moved with a grace that seemed almost ethereal. Their long, white hair flowed behind them, some had pale white skin that shone like marble, while others had an olive tint that hinted at a more mortal heritage. Their eyes were the most captivating feature; they were the colour blue that one only saw in the clearest summer sky, and they seemed to sparkle with an inner light.
The women were dressed in flowing gowns that floated around them like clouds, their long white hair styled in elegant up-dos that showcased their delicate necks. The men, on the other hand, wore flowing robes that hung loosely from their slender frames, their movements graceful and confident.
Then Kazi saw a man flying through the sky. His wings were white and gleamed like the wings of a dove, his face aglow with an ethereal light. He soared through the sky, when he arrived at his destination, his wings became smaller until they fully disappeared. Kazi watched in awe; she had never seen someone fly like that.
As they exited the boat, Kazi couldn't help but feel a pang of self-consciousness. Her brown skin and brown eyes stood out against the sea of pale white Altheans, her simple traveling clothes ill-fitting compared to their flowing gowns and elegant robes. Even her soldiers, a diverse mix of races, also seemed to catch curious stares from the Altheans who lined the docks. But despite this, Kazi steeled her resolve. She was here on a mission, and nothing would deter her.
A figure approached, their wings folded neatly behind them and disappeared as they walked on the ground. The figure walked towards them, his blue eyes piercing through Kazi's soul. He commanded a presence that was both intimidating and authoritative. This, Kazi knew, was the king's advisor.
"Greetings," the Advisor said, his voice smooth. "I am Seraphinael, advisor to His Highness, King Eldarion of Althea. We have been expecting you, General Kazi."
Kazi extended her hand, however Seraphinael, simply stared at it with a look of mild confusion. Kazi quickly retracted her hand, a blush creeping up her cheeks. She had forgotten that it was not 'proper' as a woman to offer one's hand in greeting. "My apologies," she said, curtsying instead. "I am General Kazi, commander of the forces of Niameda."
Seraphinael nodded graciously. "The King awaits you in the Royal Castle. Please follow me."
They followed him towards two beautiful white carriages, each drawn by a pair of magnificent white horses. The carriages were covered with gold trimming and had designs etched into their sides.
Kazi's soldiers entered the first carriage, Kazi on the other hand found herself put into the second carriage with Seraphinael. As the carriage pulled away, Kazi stole a glance at the Advisor. "May I inquire," she began, her voice firm yet polite, "why the King's advisor greets us instead of the King himself?"
Seraphinael's lips curved into a faint, small smile "Formalities, General Kazi," he replied smoothly. "But rest assured, King Eldarion values the alliance between our kingdoms. He will grant you an audience… eventually."
"Eventually," she repeated, "How very… convenient." She smiled inwardly, knowing that the Advisor was merely playing with words.
"Patience, General. Althea operates on a different rhythm than your firebrand Niameda." Seraphinael's voice was smooth as silk, and his words held an unspoken warning.
Kazi swallowed her sharp tongue. Diplomacy, for now, was the key. Taking a deep breath, she forced a smile. "Perhaps you could enlighten me on this… rhythm, Seraphinael. It would be a shame for my ignorance to cause an incident."
A flicker of surprise crossed Seraphinael's face, replaced by a hint of respect. "Perhaps," he said, "a cultural exchange would be beneficial. But first, an audience with the King awaits."
The carriage continued its journey towards the Royal Castle, leaving Kazi with a growing sense of unease. This "eventually" felt like a deliberate game of power, and Kazi was not one for playing such games. But for the sake of her mission and the safety of her crew, she would have to tread carefully.