Once the group had assembled, they rode out of the Capital. They anticipated a long journey. Although Michael's passageway would take them as far as Miroco, they would need to take a ship to reach Ascar.
It turned out to be a rough journey. First, the sea was violently bumpy. Then, their eventual arrival in Ascar was met with a cold reception. A party of soldiers gave them a gruff welcome before they all set off towards the capital. Or at least, what remained of it.
In size, Ascar rivalled Rotan. But the proportion of arable land was much lower. It was dotted by large and pointed mountains. The lower lands were mostly deserts. It was far hotter than the Empire. Everyone struggled with the heat. Their eventual arrival in the capital was both a relief and a disappointment.
