The hidden hobgoblin kingdom

South of the Dark Forest, in a very distant place.

This was a vast plain, more desolate than the Barren Plains, with an environment harsher than a desert.

The plain was filled with decay and desolation—withered leaves, dried-up riverbeds, and the rotting carcasses of animals long dead.

A few vultures scared off a flock of crows, descending upon the carcasses to feast on the decaying flesh.

In the distance, a few bare tree trunks stood as a testament to a once fertile land.

The further south one went, the harsher the environment became.

A weak antelope staggered forward, followed by a flock of crows, seemingly waiting for its death.

The antelope hadn't eaten for days and was extremely weak. Suddenly, it saw a shimmering lake in the distance—water.

The antelope quickened its pace, hope igniting in its eyes. But just as it was about to reach the lake, a green figure, seemingly waiting for a long time, appeared.