The capital of Alder emerged beyond the third root roadway in the damp light of mid-morning.
A towering botanical barrier of intertwined trunks rose eighty feet into the misty air without a single stone block.
High bough bridges arched gracefully between the emerald crowns above, carrying courtiers and messengers across open space.
The scent of crushed wild herbs and sharp green sap filled the breeze that swept across the convoy.
Whenever the wagon wheels rolled over the suspended walkway, the living boughs produced a soft, resonant hum.
Eirwen unfastened her traveling cloak and handed the garment to Elina before turning toward the great botanical rampart.
"The capital does not open for a name alone... for the gate asks whether I vouch for every companion," she said.
Hajin stood beside her on the swaying approach, resting his fingers lightly against the bronze refusal socket case.
