Far from the terrifying, heart-pounding aura of the Canglan River, Baofeng and Sun seemed to have cast off invisible shackles, their flight becoming much nimbler.
The moisture in the air gradually faded, replaced by the dry scent of rock and timber.
The landscape of forests and plains gave way to rolling hills and mountain ranges.
Several hours passed. When the twin suns overhead nearly converged, casting their most scorching rays, a magnificent vista finally appeared on the horizon.
A vast valley lay nestled among the mountains.
In the distance, thick plumes of cooking smoke could be seen rising from the flatlands outside the valley.
"That must be it."
Raylo patted Baofeng's neck.
Baofeng and Sun landed silently in a dense forest, still several kilometers from the area.
"Moonlight, it's your time to shine."
Raylo leaped off Baofeng's back.
Moonlight, which had been dozing on Baofeng's back, stretched languidly before hopping lightly to the ground.
