Morning arrived with the crisp scent of damp earth and the lingering chill of the previous night’s revelry. The sun, still low on the horizon, cast a golden glow over Eastend’s garrison, illuminating the courtyard where preparations for departure were well underway.
Jim stood amidst the bustle, overseeing the loading of supplies. It had been three days since he had embarked on the mission to rescue Eliza, three days of hardship, battle, and unforeseen alliances. Now, with the quest complete, it was time to set forth once more—this time to Centrical City, where he would deliver Captain Klax Forterr’s letter to General Hedorven.
Around him, soldiers tightened saddle straps and secured provisions, the rhythmic clanking of metal blending with the occasional whinny of the horses. But amid all
