As time slips away, carried upon the swift wings of the wind, the deep ocean blue of the sky returns, gradually transforming into a vibrant turquoise hue. The fiery sun replaces the moon's gentle glow, sending millions of blazing sunrays that turn the cool breeze into a scorching gust. The day stretches forth, and the sun ascends higher into the sky, sending its brilliant light on the desert below.

     Amidst the shifting landscape, Oliver leads the group at the frontier of the desert, flanked by his companions, as they forge their path through the arid land. Their feet sink into the sandy terrain as they stride forward. The wind sweeps across the dunes, causing their garments to sway. They tightly clutch their clothing as the breeze tugs at the fabric.

     Oliver leads, marching between his spouse and friends. A scarf with white and green stripes drapes across his shoulders, held in place by his hands. Specks of sand lightly dust his simple white robe, cinched at the waist by a yellow sash. He brushes off the grains from his torso while being cautious of the treasured item on his finger—the gold ring gifted by his beloved.

     Oliver steals a glance to his right and locks eyes with Gregory. Gregory wears a vanilla-coloured garb under a light bluish-grey robe. He firmly holds onto a white cotton veil secured by a black band around his head. Like his spouse, Gregory proudly displays a glistening ring on his finger.

     Gregory glanced at Oliver, and his eyes shifted past his lover, landing on Sophia. Sophia wears a strawberry dress with ruffled shoulder sleeves. A matching veil rests atop her head, partially revealing her golden hairline. Despite her unassuming appearance, Sophia exudes grace and charm through her captivating gaze.

     Following closely behind Sophia is Edgar. His ordinary robe blends seamlessly with the desert sand, revealing his black shoes. The neckline of his outfit exposes his neck and collarbones, allowing the breeze to keep him chill. Red linear patterns run across the wrist part of his sleeves and the hemline, lending a touch of geometry to his ensemble.

     Walking alongside Sophia is Sarrah. Sarrah dons a pastel peach veil that encases her voluminous orange hair, framing her neck. She wears an oatmeal-coloured dress under a maroon-red robe, adding a rush of colour to her look. Sarah places her hands at the opening of her robe, ensuring it remains secure against the playful antics of the wind.

     Sarrah gazes at Bethany, who walks on her right side. Bethany wears a peanut-brown dress with a broad slit, revealing an undergarment that covers her knees. A dark lime fabric wraps around her head, reminiscent of a ripening green mandarin, concealing her hair and neck. Completing her look, she dons a charcoal-black veil that adds mystery to her appearance and enhances her stature.

Sarrah looked behind her and caught sight of the ocean and the bustling port. "There goes all of our coins," she sighed, peering at the ships coming and going. "But hey, it's worth it. At least I get to meet your relatives, Beth," she said to Bethany.

Bethany paused in her steps and stood beside Sarrah as they both gazed into the distance. "Yeah, I wish I could visit them next time," Bethany said.

Suddenly, Oliver emerged behind the two girls. "We'll be able to visit them soon," he stated. "The people there are so kind, including your relatives, Bethany. It was a pleasant experience entering their land," he added with a friendly smile. "I'm eager to learn more about their culture."

"Me, too. I was completely amazed," Sarrah agreed. "I'd love to return to Kugi someday. Maybe we can go there on a military trip."

Sophia then called out. "Guys! I can see a town straight ahead!"

Oliver, Sarrah, and Bethany quickened their pace and caught up with the others.

"Finally," Oliver announced with a smirk. "Runtokgi."

     In the distance, a slumbering town emerges amidst the vast desert landscape, and households crafted from sandstone rise, featuring flat roofs and curved doorways. The tightly packed structures create a maze of narrow alleyways, evoking a sense of claustrophobia. Yet, far beyond the clustered dwellings, a grand silver building with a majestic golden dome catches the eye, peeking above the neighbouring structures.

     The Remaining Podeshire and his companions approach a plain gate with an arched entrance. After traversing the sandy desert, Oliver halts. Taking a deep breath, he glances at his spouse and friends, gathering his courage. He then attempts to pass through the gate, but the two guards swiftly brandish their spears, blocking the path and denying Oliver and his companions entry into the town.

"You are all unfamiliar with the town," the guard on the left said, demanding an explanation. "State your purpose. Are you here for trade and commerce?"

"Oh. Uhm, no," Oliver responded. "We are here because the King has summoned me. I have been ordered to come to Runtokgi."

"And what about the others? Are they merchants?" the guard on the right interrogated.

"No," Edgar replied, raising a brow.

"They are my trusted companions," Oliver stated firmly.

The guard on the left glanced at his troop before speaking. "Indeed, the King has informed us about an incoming visitor he has summoned," he acknowledged, turning to the group. "May we have your name and title first?"

"I am the Remaining Podeshire and the Defender of Asbranne. I am none other than Oliver Podeshire."

"...You may enter," the sceptical guard on the left declared.

The guards raised their spears and granted passage to Oliver and his companions through the gate.

After they entered, Oliver turned to the guard and asked kindly. "Could you please provide us with directions to the King?"

The guard on the left called two guards positioned on the street. "Hey! You two! Accompany the Remaining Podeshire and his companions to the King!" he ordered.

     Oliver and his group find themselves on a lengthy sandy road flanked by tightly packed houses. They follow the two guards who guide them towards the silver building with the golden dome. As they continue their journey, their heads turn in awe, captivated by the simplistic beauty of the environment.

     As Oliver scans his surroundings, his gaze is suddenly arrested by something that captures his attention. He stops and takes a step towards the right side of the road. His companions never notice him halting as they continue walking forward.

     Two men dressed in black attire, with only their sharp eyes and thick eyebrows visible, stand facing each other. They wield long, pointed swords in their hands. They stand motionless, glaring into each other's eyes. Suddenly, they charge at each other, engaging in a fierce battle, and their swords clash and ring in the air.

     Oliver's jaw drops as he watches the spectacle alongside the people around him. A sense of admiration overcomes him as he forms a grin on his face. He keeps his gaze fixed on the duelling men. However, a sudden realization strikes him, causing him to shift his attention downward. He hastens along the street, catching up with his companions and the two guards.