Soon on their travels, in the horizon, a large spire pierces the sky. It is fashioned from grey stone and gold, reaching far up into the clouds. Bellow, near its base, is a large courtyard, with straggles of buildings splitting out from the center. Some are even attached to the steeple, and these buildings are much larger than the others. All this is built upon a large slab of smooth stone, so the marshes do not impede any of the footpaths.
Terra leads them under the hefty gate of the wall that surrounds the little community, and down an empty street. All footsteps echo, resonating on the stone and off the walls of the buildings. As they grow closer to the nearest entrance to the tower, there are a few armored humans, seemingly standing post. One addresses Terra when she approaches, looking only at her and ignoring the rest of the group. “What is your business here?” the guard queries, a large spear in one hand, and a shield in the other.
“I am here on the Great Mage’s orders, to show her guests hospitality.” Terra gestures to the others, and only then does the large man pay them any mind.
“Are any of them armed?” he asks, tone flat. His gaze is sharp, and fearsome. There is a heavy set in his brow that far exceeds his age, setting his face into a perpetual scowl.
Terra looks the group over, and says, “No, only me.” She folds her arms, looking up at him, as he deliberates.
Slowly, he says, “Very well. I will take your word on this. Your service to the Great Mage has proven invaluable, and with it you have earned my trust. Do not think we will not be keeping an eye on your guests, however.” He signals to the other guard, one armed similarly to him but with a great war hammer in place of a spear, and she removes a physical bar from the door. Similarly to how Gale had, she mutters an incantation, and a magical lock is dispelled as well. Then, she hoists her hammer over her shoulder and steps aside, resuming her post.
The male guard nods at them once, and steps aside as well. Terra shoves open the heavy wooden door to lead them inside, which is all lit with candle light. The inner walls are of the same smooth stone as the outside, through some of them are covered in paintings and etchings of a strange, yet mystical, sort. The sound of a great and terrible thundering voice can be heard, and while the words it speaks cannot be distinguished, it is clear that the tone is unhappy.