The group, their journey through the Black Forest complete, returned to the port. As they boarded the carriage, a sense of familiarity washed over them. This was the third time they had separated, a recurring theme in their adventure.

Yuma, his voice tinged with a hint of humor, commented on the familiarity of their situation. "It's becoming a habit."

Orano, his expression serious, interrupted Yuma. "We won't be going directly to Theorandia."

The group exchanged puzzled glances, their curiosity piqued. Caitrin, her voice filled with confusion, inquired about Orano's decision. "Aren't we headed to Theorandia?"

Orano nodded. "We are, but we'll take a roundabout route. The imminent threat from the creature hunter necessitates a strategic approach. Miko and Bachi must be informed, and we need to plan accordingly."

As the carriage pulled away from the port, Caitrin turned to Orano. "So, we're taking a ship again. At least it's better than a carriage."

Orano, his eyes fixed on the horizon, replied, "This might be the last time we use a ship. If we reach Theorandia safely, we'll travel by carriage, as it's closer."

Caitrin, her sarcasm a thin veil for her underlying anxiety, retorted, "So that's what you meant."

As the ship set sail, Caitrin gazed out at the vast expanse of water. A sense of familiarity washed over her, a feeling she couldn't quite place.

"It's like you said," she mused, her voice barely audible. "We're nearing the end."

Orano, his attention drawn to her, looked at her quizzically.

Caitrin continued, her eyes fixed on the horizon. "It feels like we're slowly approaching the culmination of our journey."

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After three days of arduous travel, the group finally reached the border of Vurudora. Despite their initial apprehensions, their journey had been relatively uneventful. They had even managed to acquire a horse-drawn carriage to aid them in their travels.

Now, before them, stood the imposing barrier that guarded the entrance to the Eighth Kingdom. The barrier, a colossal structure of yellow energy, encircled the kingdom, its thickness almost impenetrable. Despite the barrier's formidable appearance, the majestic castle within was clearly visible from their vantage point.

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The entrance they had discovered was nestled at the edge of a forest path, overlooking a dramatic cliff and the sparkling sea. Orano, his heart pounding with anticipation, halted the carriage and stepped forward.

Caitrin, her voice filled with curiosity, called out to him. "What are you going to do?"

Orano, his eyes fixed on the barrier, replied, "Since we don't know the exact procedure, I'll try something."

With a determined stride, Orano approached the barrier, the necklace clutched tightly in his hand. He pressed the crystal against the barrier, waiting for a response.

The barrier, as if sensing the crystal's power, pulsed with energy. A brilliant light emanated from the necklace, illuminating the barrier. Then, with a resounding hum, the barrier parted, revealing a colossal entrance.

Caitrin, her eyes wide with astonishment, exclaimed, "I didn't expect that!"

Orano, wasting no time, returned to the carriage and guided it through the newly formed opening. As they entered the Eighth Kingdom, the landscape before them was a stark contrast to the vibrant world they had left behind.

The city of Mannangal, once a beacon of prosperity, was now a desolate wasteland. The once-vibrant streets, now devoid of life, were littered with the charred remains of buildings. The air, thick with a sickly sweet stench, was a stark contrast to the city's former vitality.

Caitrin, her heart heavy with sorrow, couldn't help but feel a deep connection to this ruined city. The thought of the countless lives lost, the memories erased, filled her with a profound sadness.

As Orano stepped out of the carriage, Caitrin's gaze followed him. "Where are you going?" she asked nervously.

"We're here," Orano replied, pointing towards the imposing castle that loomed over the city.

The castle, once a symbol of strength and resilience, was now a blackened shell. Despite the devastation, its entrance remained open, inviting exploration.

Caitrin, her suspicions aroused, questioned Orano's decision. "I know the witch is here, but should we just enter?"

Orano, his determination unwavering, replied, "We'll find out."

As they approached the castle, Caitrin couldn't help but marvel at its interior. Despite the city's destruction, the castle remained remarkably intact, its halls meticulously maintained.

"It's almost like someone has been taking care of it," Caitrin mused, her curiosity piqued.

Orano, his eyes scanning the surroundings, agreed. "The witch must be somewhere nearby."

Just as he finished his sentence, the sound of shouting and commotion echoed through the castle. A small, plant-like creature darted past Orano, its fear evident in its frantic movements.

A powerful voice boomed through the air. "Stop! You know you can't escape!"

A figure emerged from the shadows, her eyes glinting with an eerie intensity. With a swift motion, she captured the creature and imprisoned it within a tiny bottle.

"Now that's settled," she said, her voice dripping with smug satisfaction. "I can return to my potions."

The legendary witch stood before them, her presence a chilling reminder of the dark forces that lurked within the Eighth Kingdom.