The approaching snake

We know about the city's cultural diversity.

Let's talk a little bit more about the city.

What truly sets Eldertown apart from the other cities on the continent is its sense of community. Neighbors know one another by name, and there is an unwritten code of hospitality and kindness. Eldertown had a reputation as a place where strangers were welcomed with open arms and where friendship blossomed as easily as the wildflowers that adorned the streets.

As such, any kind of crime, including but not limited to: Theft, murder, arson, rape, slavery, promotion of slavery, and selling illegal weapons, drugs and slaves is dealt with strict punishment.

The punishment varies with the crime, but the only time Eldertown outright executed someone was because of a witch that decided to enslave the entire population with her magic. She then welcomed deviled ones into the city itself which almost caused the destruction of the city. Thankfully, the hero and his cohort came in time to deal with the thread, but they left the fate enchantress to be chosen by the city.

Yeah, she suffered a horrible and painful death for everything she did.

Death penalty is reserved for only the second-worst of criminals.

Nobody knows what the punishment for the absolute worst of the worst criminals is, and nobody had tried to find out.

As for the city itself, Eldertown is nestled deep within the heart of a lush and ancient forest (almost as ancient as the dark forest), which was a place of enchantment and wonder. It stood as a testament to the harmony that could be achieved between nature and civilization.

The city seems to be born from the very earth itself. Towering trees with branches that reached skyward surrounds the town, their leaves forming a vibrant canopy overhead. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled pattern of light and shadow on the cobblestone streets below. The air was filled with the sweet scent of wildflowers and the gentle rustling leaves in the wind.

Something similar could be said for its architecture, as it was something of a fusion of both nature and craftmanship. The buildings were constructed with great care to preserve  the ancient tress that grew throughout the town. Treehouses and wooden cottages blends in seamlessly with the natural surroundings, while lanterns made from carved wood and stained glass adorned the streets, illuminating the city with a warm, inviting glow at night.

The forest that surrounded Eldertown was not merely a backdrop but an integral part of life within the city. Eldertown's inhabitants had a deep respect for the natural world, and many of their customs and traditions were tied to the rhymes of the forest. The first Elder, the man who got the town named after, was an incredible powerful druid, and now both druids and mages are being looked highly upon, as both of them play a vital role in maintaining the balance between the city and the wilderness.

The cobbled streets of Eldertown were known to wound their way through the city, curving around massive tree trunks and natural obstacles. Quaint alleys and hidden pathways revealed hidden nooks and crannies where shops and stalls offered an array of goods, from elven jewelry to the finely crafted wooden wares.

And at the very heart of Eldertown laid a bustling central square, where a massive, ancient oak tree stood tall and proud. Its gnarled roots formed a natural stage, often used for storytelling and performances during festivals. Beneath the tree, a sparkling fountain sent crystal-clear water cascading into a stone basin, offering a serene oasis for both locals and visitors.

Eldertown was truly a marvelous place, and its inhabitants were incredibly thankful to everyone who helped saving it all those decades ago.

...

In the heart of Eldertown, a city nestled deep within a dense forest, an atmosphere of unease hung heavy in the air. The city itself had changed to the actions of the Heroes verdict; his actions had cast a long shadow of suspicion over all lizardmen living in the vicinity. Wishing to put a stop to all the conflict the city's authorities had issued strict orders to their guards posted at the imposing city gates: no one was to be allowed entry without a proper invitation or identification, regardless of their race.

And As the moon bathed the city gate in a silvery glow, two guards, Gruff and Wren, stood vigilant at their posts. They exchanged a few quiet words as they scanned the perimeter for any signs of trouble.

Gruff, his voice gruff but tinged with a hint of curiosity, spoke first, "You ever wonder why we've got such strict orders tonight, Wren?"

Wren, his eyes focused on the dark forest beyond, replied in a hushed tone, "Aye, Gruff, it's been bothering me too. Something's got the higher-ups on edge."

Gruff nodded, tightening his grip on his spear. "Could be that lizardman Syzoth. Nobody had managed to find him, even after all these weeks. Everyone's now on edge."

Wren's brows furrowed. "Aye, but it ain't fair to treat all lizardmen as criminals just 'cause of him."

Gruff shrugged. "Orders are orders, Wren. We can't afford to let our guard down."

Wren glanced at the city beyond the gate, where the soft glow of lanterns illuminated the cobbled streets. "It's just that we've always been a welcoming city, known for our diversity. This feels different."

Gruff leaned in closer, his voice lowered to a conspiratorial whisper. "You think Syzoth might try to sneak in?"

Wren shook his head. "Nah, he's too crafty for that. Besides, I think he's laying low for a while. It's more about keeping an eye on anyone who might be associated with him."

Gruff, squinting into the darkness, muttered, "This job can get mighty lonely, especially on nights like this."

Wren nodded in agreement. "Aye, but it's our duty to keep Eldertown safe, even when the shadows seem to whisper secrets."

Gruff cracked a faint smile. "Just remember, Wren, we'll have a good tale to tell once this night is over, whether it's about stopping a threat or keeping the peace."

Their conversation tapered off as they resumed their watch, their senses on high alert, unaware that a shadowy figure was about to approach the gate, poised to challenge their resolve.