The guardian's body crumbled into ash, leaving only wisps of mana floating in the air. He absorbed them quickly, feeling the ancient power flow through him. His eyes glowed brighter as he processed the guardian's memories and knowledge.
[That was... different. Usually you play with your food longer.]
"No time to waste," he muttered, turning toward the new staircase. This one was wider than the last, carved from black stone that seemed to absorb light. "Something bigger is waiting."
He began climbing, his footsteps echoing in the silence. The walls here were different - smooth and polished, like black glass. He could see his reflection, distorted and strange, moving alongside him as he climbed.
The air grew colder with each step. His breath formed small clouds in front of him. The sword in his hand hummed softly, responding to the increasing pressure of magic around them.
[The mana density is getting worse. Whatever's up there, it's powerful.]