After crossing the poisonous desert that nearly claimed Zanuba's life, Alaric and Zanuba finally arrived in a more hospitable place, or at least it appeared so. They found a small green plain with trees sparsely growing here and there, a stark contrast to the dangerous desert they had just left behind.
"Well, this is better," Alaric said, placing his staff on the ground and letting out a long sigh. "I almost forgot what fresh air feels like. That poison didn't exactly suit my sensitive skin."
Zanuba looked at him, exhausted, but there was a faint smile on her lips. "You're always so dramatic, Alaric."
"Dramatic? I call it style," Alaric replied smugly. "Besides, someone has to maintain an image, right?"
They both chuckled lightly, but before they could truly rest, a deep, heavy voice came from behind them.
"Who dares enter this land without permission?"
