The courtyard is a huge pavilion of stone patio outside of the palace. It is in the shape of a large rectangle and boarders the west end of the palace. It is bordered in luscious hedges dotted with colorful flowers, particularly roses. Throughout the courtyard there are potted flowers, stone benches, statues and bird baths and fenced garden plots, and also a central atrium, that all evoke the feeling on an Arcadian garden.
Courtyard, Outside Palace
ancient king
goldfinch
I am a goldfinch that loves to swim. I have avoided people my whole life. I enjoy eating fish for dinner.
Tweet tweet trill trill tweet! I'm a shy bird, but for you, Ancient King, I'll happily sing! Thank you my friend! This old body affords me only hard won pleasure these days, but my large ears always allow me to enjoy the beauty of song! This is the most beautiful courtyard in all the kingdom, certainly. I found this gift on the bench over there. Is it yours? I am old, but my mind is not failing yet! I am certain that this gift does not belong to me. How odd, who could have left it here? Few have access to this lovely yard. I've been here several hours this morning, eating seed and enjoying the sun. The gift has been here the whole time. Should you open it? I am curious, but it would be impolite to open a gift meant for another. Perhaps you could take flight, and see if anyone else is nearby who might have left it? You don't think it could have been left by the visitors who came through yesterday, do you? If I recall, there were several young children in the mix. But yes, let me fly around the courtyard and see if anyone else is present. Yes, thank you. Meanwhile I will inspect the gift for any clues as to what might be inside. I flew all about the courtyard and there is no one else here. What do you think it could be? Perhaps it was left as an offering at the statue honoring the Great Wizard, who cast the spell that allows men and beasts to communicate? If so, it may well be from an appreciative cow, as from a royal visitor. You may, indeed, be right. I do think you would be permitted to open it and peek inside. Or, if you would like, I can open it. Hmm, it seems to be attracting the attention of flies and ants. Er, my arthritis seems to be acting up, my fingers have become rather stiff. Perhaps it would be best if you opened it.