Rock Box Mountain was one of the Protos Empire's transportation hub city-states in the north.
It was surrounded by undulating mountain ranges, while a winding river running through the mountains cut through the city, bringing it endless vitality when spring arrived.
Its architectural style was deeply influenced by the mountains. Built mainly from stone and wood, the structures were cleverly integrated with the surrounding natural scenery.
But this year's climate was strange, and exceptionally cold.
Even the cities in the empire's perpetually warm south were said to have seen snow the moment winter began.
It was already early March, yet there was still no sign of the cold spell receding. From time to time, heavy snow would even fall, coating most of the city's buildings in white and perfectly blending them with the snowy landscape and icy mountains around them.
Box Mountain's Magic Train Station stood at the westernmost side of the city-state. Known as "Rock Intersection," it was one of the busiest transportation hubs in the entire city-state and even the north. The station itself was a breathtaking work of art. Combining modern technology with traditional stoneworking techniques, its construction made it both sturdy and capable of blocking out the biting wind.
On the station's tracks, the sound of braking and the friction between the wheels and rails gradually grew louder.
A Magic Train speeding in from the south rushed into the station platform.
Inside the carriage, beside a window seat in the front row.
"It seems we've entered the Restricted Area."
Lanchi closed the book in his hand with one hand and put it away, gazing at the scenery outside as it gradually slowed.
According to their itinerary, the two of them were supposed to get off in this city, pass through inspection, and then transfer to the