shadows at the cliff

The mention of the southern cliffs sent a ripple of unease through Ryu. His grip tightened on the hilt of Voidfang as Kaelith leaned closer to Ayanna, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

"What exactly have you heard?" Kaelith asked.

Ayanna folded her arms, her leather armor creaking faintly. "Rumors, mostly. Travelers have been avoiding the area. Some say they've seen strange, shifting shadows even in broad daylight. Others claim there's an unnatural chill, like the air itself has been poisoned." She hesitated before adding, "A few who ventured close never returned."

"Classic Abyssal signs," Ryu murmured.

Ayanna nodded. "Exactly. Whatever it is, it's getting stronger. If you're truly interested in opposing the Abyss, you'll need to look into it. Be warned, however: this is no ordinary tainted area. So far as I can tell, it's some sort of hotspot—maybe a conduit for energy from the Abyss."