Grizk sped down the road, showing no sign of wanting to stop anytime soon. Jindan was just an hour's drive ahead. Oridian gazed out the window as the desert cacti and parched, rocky landscape whizzed past in a blur.
"Could you please tell us where we're headed next? And perhaps take it a little slower? We're missing out on all the sights," Oridian suggested.
Grizk let out his breath he had been holding and gulped in another. His heart was racing as fast as his dune buggy was.
"Apologies, I panicked for a moment, and then an idea struck me, prompting me to act on impulse. We're heading to Jindan. I need to see it for myself," Grizk replied.
Oridian was totally on board for destination number two. She didn't mind where they went, as long as she wasn't cooped up inside or getting into any trouble on the road.
"I really don't like this idea, especially after what Oridian explained. What if we arrive and the president's raiders are waiting to ambush unsuspecting visitors? We suspect danger, yet here we are, still heading toward it like fools," Vulpix said, concern evident in his voice.
""Ha, there's always one pessimist in the group preventing us from getting into unparalleled trouble." Scoffed Dane.
Vulpix raised an eyebrow at the sarcastic wolf before responding with a similar tone, "You're most welcome."
Oridian spun in her seat to face Vulpix and assured him that their chances would improve as a large group, so he shouldn't worry about visiting. Plus, they were in a speedy buggy, so if they encountered any trouble, they could make a quick getaway just as quickly as they arrived.
Naturally, Vulpix remained anxious, but he relied on his friend's reassurance that they would be safe. He genuinely didn't concern himself with his own safety; it was Pipsie he needed to protect. He had already come close to losing her to smoke inhalation at the bar. While he wasn't her father, he certainly acted like a devoted dad.
Grizk had slowed down enough for his passengers to take in the scenery around them. Cities and landmarks appeared suddenly, captivating their attention. As before, he transformed into their personal tour guide, imparting valuable insights and fascinating details about the region. They passed by Nakuru Waterhole, Oasis City—the ever-bustling sanctuary, Shadizar—known as the city of thieves, Zerzura—the white city of the desert, and Wadi Rum—nicknamed the valley of the moon.
There were only a few cities remaining, along with hidden gems he had yet to reveal to them. Time had passed quickly, and Grizk arrived at Jindan. From their vantage point, the scene was heartbreaking. The town lay in ruins, with some areas still billowing smoke from fires that had ignited amidst the turmoil. The grand entrance gate, constructed from hewn stone, had been toppled, evidenced by the ropes that had been used to pull it down. All that remained was a landscape of crumbled stone and charred homes.
Grizk was filled with sorrow at the devastation; countless dear lizard friends had made their home in Jindan, and now only memories remained.
"You should have witnessed this place during its glory days. The courts were adorned with stunning, vibrant flower arrangements. At the heart of the courtyard stood a magnificent water fountain, featuring a statue of President Abaji at its center. Koi fish thrived in the cool waters of the fountain, while the local wildlife flourished in harmony, causing no trouble for nearby towns. Even Shadizar, the City of Thieves, left them undisturbed, thanks to the Jindan's exceptional hospitality. President Saurkear, on the other hand, is a monster—a real snake in the grass."
"I wish I could have visited; it sounded wonderful. But what would prompt Saurkear to launch an attack?" Oridian asked.
Grizk shared his thoughts, saying, "The only plausible explanation I can think of is that someone in the city must have discovered a portal key or possibly even a map. Given the city's naivety, they could easily have shared this information without realizing the consequences. It's likely that Saurkear got wind of it and decided to seize it from them. Let's just hope they actually possessed something of value; otherwise, their small deception might be the very thing that brought about their town's significant downfall in vain." Grizk concluded.
"So, what do we do now? Should we start searching for this so-called map or portal key? And what's the real significance of the portals anyway? You've never fully explained why they're considered so important, especially if there are even legends told about them," Oridian said.
"I'm probably not the best person to provide you with that crucial information, but I do know several who could explain it more clearly. The problem is that we can't find anything here. My only suggestion is to explore the nearby cities; they still seem to be intact. If the map or key has left Jindan, then it's likely in motion, but so are Saurkear's raiders. The downside is that one of our cities could be the next target. Time is running out, and we need to find the keys and protect them from Saurkear. According to legend, long ago, a magical stone was created below—a stone that reunites its rightful King. If this key falls into enemy hands, the world will not endure but will instead expand. Only the true King can forge a world where harmony prevails." Stated Grizk.
"Then what are we waiting for? Let's go! Where's the next stop?" she asked.
"I believe Wadi Rum, known as the Valley of the Moon, is the closest option. Just so you're aware, it's an unusual place filled with strange creatures.
Gunshots pierced the air, and terrified screams reverberated through the town's streets as thunderous explosions erupted all around. The house was engulfed in flames and thick smoke filled the rooms. With each bomb impact, the structure trembled violently. Time was running out, and the occupants had to escape quickly.
"Solmar, you need to hang on, my friend. We have to get this map out of here before the whole town collapses around us," Admir the mongoose shouted urgently.
Solmar gasped as he coughed, the dust and smoke overwhelming his lungs. He felt awful for bringing such devastation to Jindan. If only he had kept quiet. The reality was that he was thrilled to have been the one to uncover the first portal key map and was eagerly anticipating the King's return with it. However, he had no idea who the King was or what he looked like. Legends spoke of a powerful white warrior from faraway lands. Unbeknownst to him, a stranger, either merely passing through or perhaps eavesdropping, had caught wind of his conversation about the exciting discovery while at Dino's diner one afternoon. News traveled swiftly to President Saurkear, who, with a twisted heart greedy for wealth, dispatched his Ghayfa raiders to seize the map.
"I'm so sorry, Admir. Just let me die here. It's all my fault, and I'm too ashamed to continue. I will forever be remembered as the one who brought destruction to our humble town. You need to take the map to safety—wherever that may be—just get out of here." Solmar the Oryx said.
Admir refused to accept that. She wasn't about to abandon a friend in need and flee.
"Silly oryx, no one holds you responsible, nor does anyone even suspect it was you. You need to rise up. We have the potential to save the world, and that's far more significant than just one city. Imagine all the other cities that can be spared. Trust me, Solmar, just as you always have," Admir said gently, urging him on.
Solmar rose unsteadily on his shaky legs, his tall frame looming over his small friend. Admir extended her hand, inviting Solmar to grasp it as they fled their home. Just as they bolted away, a powerful roar erupted behind them. They turned to witness their house collapse, narrowly avoiding being caught beneath its ruins. Everything was lost—now they were homeless wanderers leaving Jindan behind.
Admir had tucked the map beneath her shirt, securing it in the waistband of her leather pants. They sprinted at full speed, weaving through gunfire, explosions, and raiders lurking around every corner. It was, without a doubt, a war zone.
They rushed toward a building that was still upright, but for how much longer, who could say? As they cautiously peeked around the corner, they spotted a sizable group of raiders armed with SMG'S. One of them nonchalantly rested a torpedo gun on his shoulder. These miscreants were truly grotesque; their appearance could best be described as reminiscent of sky pirates. Perched atop their unkempt hair were pirate hats or durags. Dressed from head to toe, they sported white, flowing undershirts that peeked out from beneath a tattered maroonish-brown vest. They strolled about in ripped leather trousers, complemented by well-worn, knee-high sea-faring boots. Saurkear had always admired such ruffians and had dressed accordingly, donning a black sailboat flag as a cape. Stitched in its fabric was an imposing image of a skull and crossbones.
The dusty horned viper was the quintessential villain, gaining entry to his territory's office through intimidation and fear tactics. Despite his average height, he had a way with words that could sway even the mightiest. Any powerful king could easily overpower him, yet he cleverly manipulated them before they had a chance to act. His tongue was a weapon of deceit, and his mouth was his greatest asset. Not to mention his venomous fangs, which deterred most adversaries. His striking yellow eyes, adorned with tiny, eerie black slits, could pierce into the minds of his foes, predicting their next moves. Though small in stature, he was agile and adept at slipping into tight spots without being noticed. He was a masterful leader, surpassing many, except for President Abaji. With his wisdom and sharp skills, it was no surprise that Abaji ruled over his territory. The rivalry between these two foes was a constant struggle, and who could blame them?
Admir and Solmar had ran to a dead end and needed to think fast before moving on.
"What are we supposed to do? We can't go back; that route is closed off, and we can't move ahead either since they're blocking the way," Solmar said anxiously.
Admir acted swiftly, realizing that they needed a diversion to outsmart the raiders. She hurried to a spot known for its remarkable echoes, hoping her plan would succeed; if it didn't, the map would be discovered, and both she and Solmar would be as good as dead. Cupping her hands, she shouted, "I see the map! The one who has it is fleeing past the rubble toward the back gate of the city!" Crouching low, she watched as every raider fell for her ruse. Without wasting any time, she dashed back to Solmar as they made their escape through the front gate. They never glanced back and had no intention of returning. Their sole mission now was to keep the map safe.