The journey inland was starkly different from their arduous trek to Pyron. Villages, towns, and small cities dotted their path with increasing frequency. It was beautiful—that was the only word Damian could think of as he took in the vast fields of grass, gentle hills, and clusters of simple wooden and stone houses in villages. These were crafted not by magic, but by skilled hands, with cute designs, a testament to the craftsmen of the region.