As the group traveled atop Little Shrubby's back, the landscape changed rapidly beneath them.
The cold ravines gave way to forested hills, the forests to scattered plains, and soon the rolling grasslands of the Eastern Steppes stretched endlessly into the horizon. The air grew warmer, though faint clouds still hinted at unnatural weather patterns.
From above, they could see large herds of cattle-like beasts grazing in the open fields; massive creatures with horns like twisted iron and hides shimmering with faint spiritual light.
These were the Great Steppe Cows, known throughout the Darkhan Dynasty for their rich milk and fatty meat. Nearby, herds of powerful horses ran freely, each with a glossy coat that reflected the sunlight like polished steel. The Thousand Mile Steppe Horses were not just beasts of burden, they were living treasures of the dynasty, able to traverse vast distances without tiring.
