Chapter 8: Alzahael's Blade

The unlikely pair leave a struggling beast behind. For the duration of their journey, the two Daemiks fail to see any other sign of life. 'Perhaps it is for the best.' Kiora observes. As they round a corner, a stale breeze blows across the mountainous path. Dust flies towards Kiora's face. She raises her arms to shield herself from the debris. Carefully, she walks closer to her guide.

"How much farther?" Kiora asks.

"We're almost there," he replies. Luce spits out a clump of dirt. "We have one climb left before we can some across my next base."

The weary Daemik smiles. 'Another rest will be good.' Kiora thinks relieved with the update. The two eagerly cross over stone. The dusty haze subsides. Kiora relaxes her arms. Her gaze turns skywards. 'I wonder if we'll 'really' arrive in time.' Despite her guide's words, Kiora falls into doubt. She watches the sun with a growing panic.