The first day of the mission couldn't have gone smoother.
By midday, they'd already crossed the border of Mystic Academy's protective wards and entered the sprawling Northern Plateau. There was a wide stretch of rugged cliffs, rolling plains, and glittering rivers that shimmered under the afternoon sun. The air was fresher here, sharper. Wild.
"Okay," Beau said, stretching his arms dramatically. "Who says this doesn't feel like vacation?"
Leonel glanced at him flatly. "We're here to hunt three Behemoths."
"Yeah, but look at that view!" Beau pointed toward the mountains where white clouds kissed jagged peaks. "Nature's really outdoing herself!"
Zann rolled his eyes. "Try saying that when a Behemoth's chasing you uphill."
Darenn, leading the group from the front, hid a small smile. "Less talking, more walking. We'll reach the river before sundown."
Irving trailed beside him, adjusting his bag. "If Beau still has energy to talk, he's not carrying enough supplies."
