Meanwhile, after a long journey, King Klopheous and his chosen men—including Heshun—finally reached the legendary old castle.
On the ground, a scene witnessing long-lost grandeur unfolded before them. The formidable walls that once signified wealth and power were now severely cracked and enveloped in thick, lush vines that looked like a green shroud. The paved, once-grand pathway of nobles and carriages had been pierced and claimed by tough weeds. No guards or escorts walked here anymore; now, only crawling insects and rats owned the wide, silent kingdom of stone.
"We have arrived at the rumored old castle," declared King Klopheous, still mounted on his sturdy horse. His voice was firm and hopeful. "It is in this very place that the map said to lead us to our objective is hidden."
As the king surveyed the surroundings, his gaze swept over the remaining columns and arches, which stood like the skeletons of a giant.
