The monolith dimmed behind them, but Darius's interface glowed with a new symbol—an ever-shifting icon pulsing faintly.
> [Tracking Next Core Signal… Calibrating]
Estimated Direction: East – Obsidian Ridge
Darius tapped the screen. "System's rerouting. Next marker's east—Obsidian Ridge."
Aric frowned. "That's at least a two-day hike through rough terrain."
Rowan checked his gear. "Rough terrain's normal now."
They moved fast. No chatter. The forest shifted as they passed—trees blackened at the edges, soil turning to ash. The deeper they went, the more unnatural it felt. Once-green roots curled away from the path like they feared where Darius was headed.
> [Environmental Disturbance Detected]
New Biome: Charred Lands – System Energy Residue Present
"Something burned this place," Darius muttered.
Then they heard it.
Low groaning. Not human. Not animal.
Up ahead, figures stood in the fog—charred husks still glowing with internal fire.
> [Hostile Detected: Forgotten Scorchwalkers]
Weak Point: Core Node (Back Spine)
Avoid Fireburst Attack
"They're in our way," Rowan said, blade half-drawn.
"No," Darius whispered. "They're guarding it."
Past them, a craggy rise broke the earth like a knife. Black stone glimmered at the top—the second Core Marker.
Darius gritted his teeth. "We're not sneaking past that."
> Objective: Clear Scorchwalker Guardians | Reach Core Marker 2
Reward: +2 SP, +75 Gold, Core Fragment II
Aric smirked. "Then let's earn it."
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