The journey to Antares was quick, thanks to the portal's use, yet the trek up the mountains was a different matter entirely. Though the portal had saved them days of travel, the mountain path ahead was harsh and unforgiving.
As they climbed higher, the once-dense forest began to thin, the trees giving way to jagged rocks and barren terrain. Each step became steeper, the air growing colder, and the wind sharper.
Despite the biting chill and rugged ascent, none wavered—except for Grand Duke Adri, who couldn't help but grumble about every step, his worry for his pregnant wife making him more irritable.
"We should've just flown," he muttered under his breath, not for the first time, as he carried Mona in his arms and climbed with firm and steady steps.
