As the feast concluded, Oliver and his companions, accompanied by Olga, strolled across the polished, smooth, cobbled floor of the palace court. The court was flanked by other magnificent palace buildings, their two-story heights accentuated by gracefully curved A-shaped greyish roofs. Vibrant vases, brimming with blooming plants, added a splash of greenery and colour to the courtyard, enticing a flock of birds to soar through the area.

     The day cast its gentle warmth upon the surroundings, devoid of scorching intensity, creating the perfect atmosphere for a walk. A light breeze rustled through the air, carrying a refreshing scent. Gradually, the brightness of the sunlight diminished as white clouds blanketed the sky, lending a softer atmosphere.

"Oh, I am deeply grateful for your kindness, sir," Olga expressed to Oliver as they walked. "I find no words to truly convey my heartfelt gratitude... except to offer you my riches in return."

"You are most welcome, Your Majesty," Oliver responded.

Olga paused, causing the others to halt as well. She turned to Oliver and spoke earnestly. "How may I reward you, good sir? How many gold coins do you desire?"

Oliver replied. "Oh, Your Majesty. I need none."

Curiosity filled Olga's eyes as she questioned, "How can you decline such an offer, sir?"

"I do my work not for monetary gain but for the betterment of mankind," Oliver stated.

Olga's eyes widened in surprise at Oliver's refusal to accept a reward. "Oh? If you seek no material recompense, then..." Olga inquired. "What else do you desire?"

"I need..." Oliver responded. "...To go to Ojhori."

"Why?" she questioned.

"The Chieftain of one of the many towns and villages in Ojhori needs my assistance," Oliver replied. "They are experiencing ashfall, and there is a risk of being buried under it."

"Hm... it seems we share a similar plight here in Emria, as Mt Tanayon is erupting and causing destruction. The volcano has sent both flowing lava and ashfall to our lands. And... it appears the same has happened to Ojhori," Olga said.

"Yes," Oliver nodded, then asked. "But, if I may be so bold to inquire, Your Majesty, could you guide me to Ojhori?"

Olga took a few steps forward and pointed her finger towards the horizon. "Do you see that volcano over there?"

     Oliver's gaze followed Olga's outstretched finger, and his eyes settled on a majestic volcano standing against the blue sky. The volcano's imposing presence seemed almost serene despite the mushroom-shaped cloud billowing and drifting away from the city. While Oliver suspected it might be Mt Tanayon, he couldn't be sure since he had never seen it before, especially when ash rained on the land.

"That volcano is Mt Tanayon," Olga stated.

"Right," Oliver replied.

"Head south, beyond that volcano. Behind it, you'll find a series of mountain ranges. Ojhori is nestled among those ranges," Olga explained concisely.

     A sudden jolt pierces Oliver's heart as he realizes he unintentionally directed the ash clouds towards Ojhori. The weight of his mistake settles heavily on him, causing his breath to quicken as beads of sweat drip down his forehead. He swiftly turns around, looking at his companions with concern etched on his face. Then, he turns his eyes back towards the distant volcano as worry and regret flood his thoughts.

"Oli? What's wrong?" Gregory questioned as he noticed Oliver hyperventilating.

"I... I sent the ash towards Ojhori," Oliver confessed.

Oliver's companions gasped in surprise.

"It's... it's not your fault. You couldn't have known," Olga reassured Oliver.

"Your Majesty, may we be excused?" Oliver asked politely.

Olga stepped back, facing Oliver. "You're honoured," Olga responded, acknowledging Oliver's request.

     Oliver glanced back at his friends, then turned his gaze towards the Empress of Emria, giving her a warm smile. Stepping forward, he quickened his pace towards the palace gates. Sophia, Gregory, Edgar, Sarrah, and Bethany quickly followed, their footsteps echoing as they ran side by side.

     The grand palace gates swing open for Oliver and his companions. As he runs across the courtyard, Oliver glances over his shoulder, raising his hand in a farewell wave to the empress. He then presses on, passing through the gateway. Oliver maintains his sprint without pausing, his friends matching his speed as they navigate the city streets, manoeuvring to avoid colliding with people. Soon, they halt in front of the city gates, their feet landing on the open grassland.

     The Remaining Podeshire and his companions catch their breath, gasping for air after an intense hour-long run across the city. Grasping their chests, they pant heavily while gazing at the vast horizon. Their brows furrow as their eyes strain to see the dark horizon.

     On the distant horizon, the volcano melded with the atmosphere, its silhouette blending into the merging land and sky. Despite the challenge of distinguishing its peak, billowing black smoke indicated its direction, likely pointing towards Ojhori. Suddenly, flashes of lightning illuminated the dark clouds emanating from the volcano, accompanied by the resounding roar of thunder.

     The group bolts towards the volcano, dashing across the grassland with their eyes fixed in the distance. The land beneath their feet takes on a light and bluish tone with a refreshing coolness. However, they remain unaware of the situation unfolding in Ojhori as they speed across the plains towards the mountains.