The morning mist clung to the ground as Elara, Rin, and Sira set out toward the ruins of the old city. The path was overgrown and treacherous, shadows twisting like silent watchers in the thick woods.
"Keep your senses sharp," Rin warned. "The darkness may have sent scouts ahead."
Sira's eyes scanned the horizon, her fingers never far from the dagger at her belt. "And there's more than just darkness out here—old traps, ancient guardians. Elsewhere was built to protect its secrets."
Elara's heart hammered as they stepped beneath the crumbling archway marking the city's edge. The ruins stretched out like a skeleton of a forgotten age—fallen towers, shattered walls, and streets swallowed by weeds.
They moved carefully, every sound magnified in the eerie silence. Then, suddenly, a low growl echoed from the shadows. From behind a collapsed wall, twisted shapes emerged—creatures born from smoke and ash, their eyes burning with malevolence.
Rin drew his sword, the blade gleaming with a faint blue light. "We hold the line here," he commanded.
Sira vanished into the darkness with fluid grace, striking with deadly precision. Elara's hands trembled, but she gripped her staff, summoning every shred of courage.
The battle was fierce, but the three fought as one—steel, magic, and will intertwined. When the last creature fell, silence reclaimed the ruins.
Breathing heavily, Elara glanced at her companions. "This is only the beginning. The Heart waits deeper inside—and so does the true danger."
With renewed determination, they pressed onward, descending into the heart of Elsewhere's ashes.