"What do those characters mean?" Lumberling asked the captain, pointing toward the banners.
The captain followed his gaze and smiled with a touch of pride. "Those symbols represent strength, balance, and heaven. They are the Duke's teachings, his way of reminding us what to strive for."
Lumberling narrowed his eyes slightly. "I don't remember the empire using unique letters like that."
The captain chuckled softly. "It's a language the Duke invented himself. Aside from those who live here, no one else can read it."
Lumberling's gaze lingered on the banners, the black symbols swaying in the wind. A faint smile tugged at his lips as his thoughts deepened.
'Well…' he mused, 'that confirms it. The Duke isn't from this world.'
Soon, the group arrived at the towering red pavilion standing proudly at the center of the city. A faint scent of incense drifted through the air, calm and soothing.
