Chapter 37: Into the Northern Cold

**Setting Out**

Alex, Thrain, Yuki, and Igor set out from Nothra, their breath visible in the frigid air. The snow crunched underfoot, and the cold wind bit at their faces.

Igor broke the silence, "It's cold out here in the north. We should buy some winter clothes for how long we'll be here."

As they made their way to a shop, Igor continued, "So, how long do you guys plan to stay, and where are you heading next?"

Alex replied, "We're hoping to head to the new world next."

Igor nodded. "Well, this is the perfect place for that. Almost every port and harbor in any city near water is closed, mainly in Aeloria, because it's the only other city by the ocean to the new world. People say the world is bigger than we thought because we don't even know what's down south."

Alex pondered this, comparing the vast continent they were on to the size of Asia from his old world.

**Equipping for the Cold**

They reached the shop and purchased winter clothes. Alex chose a thick coat with white fur on the inside and brown leather on the outside. Once equipped, they continued towards the outskirts of the city and began their journey.

After a day's walk, they reached the village and decided to stay the night. The next morning, Alex gathered his things and met his party at the edge of the village.

"Good morning," Igor greeted him.

Thrain and Yuki chimed in, "Did you sleep well?"

Alex nodded. "Yes, now let's get moving."

**The Cave of Giants**

They trekked towards the cave, battling goblins and other creatures along the way. Finally, they reached a massive cavern. Inside, the gem they sought was visible in a large chamber.

Igor explained, "The gem is for a man who wants to use it to propose to his wife."

As Igor reached for the gem, a deep rumble echoed through the cave. Buff frost giants, similar to the ice giants they had faced before, began to stir.

The giants growled, their cold breath visible in the frosty air. Alex stepped forward, ready to handle the threat. He drew his magic-infused Glock and katana, swiftly killing two giants. As he moved to the next one, a sharp cramp seized his arm, and he stumbled.

Thrain caught him with a gust of wind magic. Igor and Yuki stepped in, finishing off the remaining giants. Thrain approached Alex, concern etched on his face. "You haven't fully recovered yet. Be careful."

**A Need for Rest**

Igor walked over, worry in his eyes. "Alex, what happened? Is it because of your lost eye? What's the story behind that?"

Alex sighed. "I'll tell you when we're somewhere safe."

As they exited the cave, Alex glanced back, a sense of uncertainty washing over him. He knew he might never fully recover, but he also knew he had to keep trying.

This concludes Chapter Thirty-Seven.