Wind sweeps across the grassy plains, carrying the scent of dandelions and distant apples. The great city sits perched on its cliffside, its stone walls warm in the afternoon sun. A windmill turns lazily near the gate.

On the road leading to the city, the cobblestones are worn smooth by centuries of travelers. A few carts trundle past, merchants calling to one another in casual tones. A young woman in an Outrider's uniform leans against the gate, yawning.

And then—a flicker of light at the edge of the road.

Not lightning. Not a vision.

Just... a shimmer, like heat haze on a summer day. It coalesces near an old oak tree, and where there was empty air a moment before, there is now a figure sprawled on the grass.