The Thunderforge pack was enormous—far more expansive and magnificent than I could have imagined. The moment we stepped off the helicopter, the people around us bowed deeply in respect. It was overwhelming, and I instinctively tightened my grip on Orion’s hand, my palm clammy with nerves.

We had traveled to the pack in a helicopter, and when I curiously asked how much it cost to hire, Orion casually informed me that the helicopter belonged to his family. My jaw nearly hit ...