Bab 61: The Champions Have Arrived

The wind roared, whipping against the sails of the enchanted sled as it skimmed across the surface of the endless ocean. The water glistened in hues of blue and gold, reflecting the growing light of the volcanic horizon ahead. The Water Drake pulling the sled hissed, its sleek, scaled body weaving through the waves with practiced ease. Each powerful stroke of its muscular tail sent sprays of saltwater into the air, the droplets catching the light like fleeting gems.

James sat near the sled's edge, gripping the metallic railing with one hand while tinkering with a small gadget in the other. His knuckles were white from the strain of holding steady against the sled's speed. The wind carried the distant scent of sulfur and smoke, mingling with the tang of the sea. His stomach churned—not from the ride, but from the mounting tension that came with the knowledge of what awaited them.

He glanced up at the other passengers.