New Targonor (VG)
Dear Family,
My apologies for stopping so short in my last letter - the roof over our supply building partially collapsed and we had to repair it quickly or the weather may have damaged our equipment. I'm sure you're eager though to hear more about the city.
Before I was allowed to enter New Targonor, I was questioned thoroughly by one of the many guards stationed at the gate. I was not offended though, in fact it is pleasing to see such care being taken to safeguard the city. And as a young man carrying nothing but a knapsack on his back and a cudgel on his shoulder I can understand the need to know my reason for being there. After I explained my business within the walls the guard brightened considerably. He told me that the training could be grueling, and that I would be pushed to my limits but to stay strong and finish because the end result is very rewarding. He seemed to be a good man, perhaps I will serve alongside him someday.
I know no words to accurately describe what happened next as I passed through the main gates. The transformation was startling, in but a few mere steps I left the open countryside and entered a teaming city positively overflowing with activity. Even the largest festivals back home cannot compare to the average day in New Targonor. Merchants peddle their wares at every corner; workers hang from the sides of buildings building them forever higher and armored guards patrol the streets, doing their best to remain in the background until they are needed.
One morning as the patrol of new recruits I am in was marching through part of the city; a merchant's cart full of apples broke an axel and tipped over, spilling its contents into the street. Two guards helped him clean up the mess and watched the cart while the merchant went to find a replacement. I think I shall enjoy serving very much.
I have heard that next week all the new recruits will be invited to dine within the keep itself one evening. I very much hope that this rumor turns out to be true. For every bit massive that the city's walls are the keep is that much greater. I have seen mountains peak closer to the ground than the keep. I do not expect us to be able to ascend to the top, as I'm told that is a restricted area reserved for royalty and only the most important of diplomats. But from even halfway up, I wonder how far I would be able to see. It's exciting to think about -- still, I shouldn't get my hopes up as the captain hasn't spoken a word of it yet. But until he does, I shall wait eagerly.
Recruit Aldric Mason
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