Demonic Fragment III

As the trio approached the western border, the landscape began to shift. The once vibrant greenery of the kingdom faded into a more rugged terrain, with rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation dotting the land. The atmosphere felt heavy, charged with an unspoken tension that hung in the air.

"Keep your eyes peeled," Alex said, slowing his horse to a cautious trot. "We don't know what we're up against."

Brittany nodded, her grip tightening on the reins. "The energy from the artifact could attract unwanted attention. We need to be careful."

Amelia, ever alert, scanned their surroundings. "The ruins should be just beyond that ridge," she said, pointing to a distant rise that broke the horizon. "I can feel something in the air, like a whisper of dark energy."