The palace courtyard was lush and meticulously maintained.
Manicured lawns stretched between stone pathways, dotted with flowering shrubs and carefully pruned trees. Ivy climbed along pale stone walls, while fountains at the center and corners of the courtyard trickled softly.
Benches and shaded alcoves were arranged beneath tall canopies of green, offering quiet places for rest and conversation. The air was cool and clean, carrying the scent of flowers and fresh grass.
Cliffton guided Nilrem along the stone path, leading him to the gazebo nestled by a small pond in the distance.
"My Lord, I hope you don't take offence when I say this," Cliffton began, feeling slightly nervous and awkward. "There are some etiquettes that one must follow when meeting royalty."
Nilrem curled his mustache and chuckled lightly. "Go ahead, young man. I don't mind at all."
Cliffton breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you for your understanding."
He paused for a moment, then continued:
