The moment Alaric’s hologram flickered out, a palpable silence filled the chamber. My heart pounded, still reeling from the ancient guardian’s warning. The air seemed to hum with an eerie energy, and the sense of impending danger hung heavy around us.
Suddenly, a faint rustling sound broke the silence. Felix spun around, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the shadows. "We’re not alone," he said, his voice tense.
Before I could react, a group of corrupted NPCs emerged from the darkness, their eyes glowing with malevolent energy. Their once-human features were twisted and grotesque, corrupted by the puppeteer’s influence. They advanced on us, weapons drawn, their movements unnervingly synchronized.
"Eve, Sasha, get ready!" I shouted, drawing my sword.
We formed a tight circle, backs to each other, ready to face the onslaught. The corrupted NPCs closed in, their footsteps echoing ominously in the chamber.