The midday sun bathed Andrew in its fierce light as he exited the northwestern gate of Heathgate and followed the path into the jungle beyond. He quickened his pace, not wanting to keep his teammates waiting again.
Soon, he reached the rendezvous point where Princess Isabella, Helen, Gideon, Eleanor, and Thomas were already waiting beside three large carriages, each harnessed to four magnificent Stormstrider Horses. Their white manes were streaked with blue, a beautiful contrast against their sturdy bodies.
Andrew took a moment to admire the horses but spoke no unnecessary words. He joined his teammates and waited quietly until the last three members arrived.
Once everyone was present, Gideon, the highest-ranked sorcerer, and de facto leader, addressed the team.
