The long caravan of wagons and sand-striders wound its way south through the high mountain passes of Kovura.
Cool pine breezes swept down from the jagged granite peaks, rustling the bronze-tipped banners of the southern guard escorting the convoy.
Riding at the head of the vanguard, General Zafaru and Master Sandshade Koru kept a vigilant watch over the winding road, their seasoned scouts fanning across the rocky ridges.
Behind them, colossal titan serpent Zaira slithered smoothly along the wider canyon bed, her massive obsidian scales parted to carry the heavy baggage and extra medical supplies.
Near the center of the column rolled the main hospital wagon, where Bukata lay propped up against soft wool blankets, chewing on a piece of dried venison.
"If you hit one more rut, Maita, I swear I will heave my heavy shield right at your head," Bukata grumbled, wincing as the wagon bounced violently over a stone.
