Between the heavy clouds blanketing the dark sky, streaks of green and blue auroras stretched out, painting the world in a dreamlike glow.

Jagged gray cliffs pierced the heavens, serving as both a natural shield against the winds and beasts, and as a fortress gifted by nature itself.

The only path into the gorge was a solitary cloud bridge. Perfectly designed to fend off invaders, this was Lake Fortress, the home of the Northguards.

"Just looking at it makes me freeze up," I muttered.

At the narrow entrance of the gorge stood a checkpoint manned by burly sentinels. Their imposing …