There was nothing quite as draining to the soul as the heat of the Shifting Expanse. The endless horizon of the Highland Scrub shimmered brilliantly with heat haze as the relentless sun blazed above. For a Tundra, a creature covered with dense fur, this wasn't an ideal place to be.

Chrysos sighed as he landed and rested for what must have been the sixth time that afternoon. He sat down and pulled out the scroll that held the details of his next job - he knew it off by heart, but it was something to do as he waited for his wings to stop aching. It read:

"Chrysos,

A violent and well-organised harpy flock has invaded our territory. We fear they will make further incursions into the Shifting Expanse if not stopped. Unfortunately, our clan is not suited to a battle of this magnitude, and we have had difficulty in recruiting neighbouring clans.

We can offer you food, accommodation and a handsome reward for your services.

- Clan West Wind"

Chrysos rolled up the scroll again and checked his map. He wanted to reach the clan before nightfall. Cold didn't bother him, but he had heard tell of roving bandit clans and he didn't want to do any fighting before it was necessary.