As the cavalry squad proceeded, the disorderly shrubs on both sides of the road were replaced by meticulously trimmed lawns and immaculately arrayed white oak trees, standing like guards with spears.
The large tree crowns blocked the sunlight, leaving only specks of mottled light to embellish the forest path.
A breeze fluttered by, the rustling sound of leaves scraping against each other resembling the whisper of a divine being in human ears.
In the culture of the Empire of Glory, the tall, robust, long-living oak tree was often referred to as "the king of the forest" and was a symbol of power, authority, and status.
As Colin admired the imposing oak trees on both sides of the road, he suddenly heard Queen Midela next to him speak:
"Count Angler, did you know? Oak Manor was established back in the Elven era and came to the royal family after several handovers. When Prince Lexie became a Holy Knight, His Majesty gifted him this manor as his reward."