As they sit down for watch, another watches them. A creature flies above acknowledging their presence, before taking leave. In the morning, they continue their journey towards the horizon, which begins to grow ever darker. The skies flood with black as the lands soon follow suit. The ashed sand becomes drenched, though their relief only lasts but moments. The ground becomes soaked with the rains, which quickly fade away.
The softened ground allows the creature to feel his prey approach sooner still, though waits for the foolish one breaking from the group to trample overhead. It attacks, though barely missing its attack. Not out of discomfort yet for the creature, 5 heads of serpent red streaked with black and gold, tunnels from below to strike once again. Few blows are struck by the hydras fang, as the group is able to avoid its flashes. The soldier in black spends his time at the belly of the beast, striking away though in vain. Meanwhile, the Oracle is sent away to her safety yet again, as the barbarous girl jumps into the fray. The silver-tongued devil and the mage stand aside a safe distance while their companions throw themselves into danger.
Soon enough they are able to disable the creature, though too benighted to understand their enemy. Soon enough again it attacks, and again they strike with greater fervor. This attempt brings the same result, though with their quick retreat followed.
Their travels bring them west towards the horizon once again, and just again the horizon darkens. Though this account is brought upon by a cloud of dust risen by the army traveling once more across the desert. They take up refuge in a crevasse, underneath a camouflaged awning. It is here that they bide their time once more on the foot of a great power.
