East of the River of Oblivion, even the morning light was scorching.
The crimson sun had barely risen above the horizon before it claimed nearly half the sky. The ground felt as if it were on fire, and even the low wind blew hot. Sun-baked sand drifted through the air, making it hard to breathe.
"Jingle, jingle~"
Camel bells rang in a clear, steady rhythm. Their sound floated over the surging river, struck the damp limestone, and carried a desolate note.
The camel's rectangular pupils reflected the River of Oblivion and the bridge spanning it.
"Once we cross Scales Bridge, we'll be on the west bank of the River of Oblivion. Another half day's travel, and we'll reach Golden City."
Ahead of the camel, an old man wrapped head to toe in robes held the reins and turned to speak to Xia Lun.
Seated between the camel's swaying humps, Xia Lun looked ahead at an angle.
The River of Oblivion was so broad that he could not see the opposite bank. Cool, damp spray from its murky white waves washed over both shores, accompanied by a deafening roar.
The bridge was broad too, but there were no other travelers on it. Their party had the road to itself.
Behind Xia Lun came several mule carts loaded with chests of treasure. The Tree Herder warriors escorting them held their flags overhead as sunshades. Perhaps because they were nearing the cool river, the mules' nostrils flared wide, and droplets beaded their noses—whether water or sweat, Xia Lun could not tell.
"Go over the plan again," Xia Lun said.
"Once we reach Golden City, we'll take the treasure to the organization's outpost first. Then I'll find the High Sun Priest, Derino La Enmondes Hohonas, and take you to meet him. After that, it's