​Having obtained all seven Keys, Illiom and the other Chosen are finally able to continue their search for Sudra’s Orb.

All that delays them now is a fierce Altran winter, but when that passes they will venture west, into the Forbidden Lands.

This enforced wait – a source of frustration for Argolan – is welcomed by lliom and Tarmel, for it provides the reprieve they need to explore the love flowering between them.

They are aware that this peace is but a temporary oasis, as each day brings them closer to the Illignment.

They know that they are venturing into the heart of evil, and this has given rise to a nameless dread which lingers at the edge of everyone’s awareness, for they cannot imagine what horrors they are yet to face.

Sometimes ignorance can feel like a gift, and foresight a wretched curse that paralyses us with terror. Sometimes it is our naivety that lends us the wings of courage we need to sail towards what must be faced.