You decide to follow the great river north…

As you begin your journey north along the great river, the dry lands stretch out before you, an endless expanse of sun-bleached earth and distant, rocky outcroppings. The ancient steel weapons clink softly with each footstep, a reassuring reminder of the power they represent.

The river's edge is lined with scrubby, wind-twisted vegetation, their leaves dry and brittle. Occasionally, you spot small creatures darting between the rocks, scurrying away at your approach. The sun beats down from a cloudless sky, and the heat radiates up from the ground, warming your armored scales.

As you walk, you can't shake the feeling of being watched. The dry lands are home to many strange creatures, and you keep one hand resting on the hilt of your weapon, ready to draw in an instant if needed. You've heard tales of giant, venomous lizards that lurk in ambush, and massive, flightless birds with razor-sharp beaks that can rend flesh from bone.

The river itself seems to be your only companion on this leg of the journey. It meanders through the arid landscape, a ribbon of life amidst the barrenness. Occasionally, you spot small pools along the bank where water has collected, teeming with strange, colorful creatures that seem almost too vibrant against the dull, earthy hues of the dry lands.

As you press on, the sun begins to sink lower in the sky, painting the clouds in shades of orange and red. The air cools slightly, though the heat still emanates from the ground. You know you'll need to find shelter soon, perhaps in one of the rocky outcroppings you've been following along the riverbank. There, you can rest, eat, and tend to your steel weapons before continuing your journey in the morning light.

But for now, you focus on the present, each step taking you further into the unknown. The dry lands hold countless secrets, and you've only scratched the surface. With each new discovery, your understanding of the ancient world grows, and with it, your sense of purpose.

The sun dips below the horizon, and you spot a suitable rocky outcropping ahead. As you make camp for the night, you can't help but wonder what other wonders and dangers the dry lands have in store for you. But for now, you're content to rest, knowing that tomorrow will bring another opportunity to explore, uncover, and survive in this harsh, unforgiving world.