With Rose leading the way, the three of them continued across the harsh lands of Orion for many more hours.
The terrain became increasingly hostile the closer they drew to their destination. Mountains rose in broken, jagged formations like shattered blades thrust into the earth. The ground was stained dark red in many places, as though ancient blood had once soaked into the stone and never fully faded.
Strange gusts of wind moved through the region carrying a heavy pressure that made even breathing feel more difficult.
As they advanced, fewer living creatures could be seen.
The beasts that did appear were distant silhouettes that quickly retreated the moment they sensed the valley ahead. Even monsters born in Orion seemed unwilling to remain near that place for long.
Eventually, Rose came to a stop on the edge of a vast cliff.
"We are here," she said quietly.
Max and Lucia stepped beside her and looked forward.
Both of them froze for a brief moment.
