CXLIV. Gu Refining

Five days later.

Black Sail and his group sold all their transportation to an inn at two-thirds of the market price.

From now on, they had to travel through the woods.

They reached the vicinity of the border.

The terrain gradually shifted from wetland to regular mountainous areas, the air no longer as humid.

"Finally, it's over."

Rein had lost twenty pounds due to the torment, and he was still suffering from acclimatization. Strange diseases were rampant in this dreadful place; a slight carelessness could spell disaster. His large frame now looked decrepit, and combined with his dog-like hair, he had outdone Liszt in looking like a pirate.

The rest were not faring much better, all somewhat out of their element, not to mention the grueling daily marches that nearly ran the horses ragged.