Upon reaching the summit of Mount Lustfor, Sylena gazed out at the vast landscape before her and whispered: - These creatures look so... threatening...
Yet a smile formed on her lips.
After all, this was exactly the kind of adventure she had longed for when she left Azulferia.
Since childhood, she had dreamed of exploring the unknown.
Now that she was living a once-in-a-lifetime experience, would she turn back? Absolutely not.
The scenery atop Mount Lustfor was breathtaking: a blend of snow-covered peaks and deep valleys, where vegetation was sparse yet vibrant in sheltered spots.
Geysers of steam erupted from the cracks in the earth, lending the place an almost surreal atmosphere.
For many of the soldiers, this was their first time seeing Highbeasts in the flesh.
And it wasn't just one or two—they were witnessing numerous specimens all in one place.
Mount Lustfor was far more terrifying and magnificent than they had imagined.
Everyone scanned the surroundings with awe, like travelers witnessing a whole new world.
Only Nilyna and Raelia appeared unaffected.
Perhaps they were used to such sights—or maybe they were simply better at hiding their unease.
The Highbeasts
Among the countless creatures inhabiting Mount Lustfor, several caught our immediate attention:
The Gryphon: Majestic wings, formidable claws, a sharp beak, and piercing vision that allowed it to spot prey from miles away.
The Tarasque: A mane like a horse's, a back as sharp as an axe, bristling scales like augers, six clawed legs, a serpent-like tail, and a double-layered protective shell.
The Qilin (or Kirin): A blend of deer and horse, with shimmering fur covered in golden scales—or sometimes both—and crowned with magnificent antlers like those of a stag.
The Manticore: Its crimson and gold fur shimmered in the light, and its lion-like body was enhanced by a scorpion tail capable of launching venomous spikes.
Raelia turned to me and murmured with concern:
— Jonady…I nodded and replied firmly:— I know.
Then, turning to the troops, I raised my voice:
— Listen well! We are here to tame these Highbeasts, not to slaughter them.
Capturing them is essential for Ednia's security.
These creatures must be subdued and trained—not exterminated. Is that clear?
— YES, YOUR MAJESTY! they replied in unison.
I placed my hand on my sword and declared:— Failure will not be tolerated. Move out!
Without hesitation, we charged forward.