THE SYSTEMS MOCKERY

As the group walked along the winding road leading out of Eldoria, the bustling city slowly faded behind them. The towering spires and ancient walls of the city grew smaller in the distance as the open road stretched before them, leading toward the rugged mountains they would soon traverse.

The early morning air was fresh, and the rhythmic sound of their footsteps was accompanied by the occasional chirp of birds and the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. For a moment, the atmosphere was quiet, almost serene—until Morris broke the silence with a teasing grin.

"So, Kaelen," Morris began, his voice light and playful, "does Lila know about this little pilgrimage of yours? Or did you just sneak off without telling her?"