The morning sun barely pierced the heavy canopy as the group gathered at the edge of the corrupted forest. The air was thick with the scent of rot and magic twisted beyond recognition. Lior felt the Celestial Code pulse anxiously beneath his skin, as if warning him of the dangers ahead.
Elyra took the lead, her sword gleaming faintly in the filtered light. "Stay close. The corruption distorts everything it touches. We don't know what we'll face."
Mira adjusted her cloak, eyes sparkling with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. "Well, at least it's not a boring stroll through the library."
Kaelen scanned the shadows, his bow ready. "This place doesn't feel natural. Watch for traps or illusions."
Sylvi clutched her satchel tightly, her healing herbs packed but her expression tense. "If anyone gets hurt, I'll do what I can."
Lior swallowed his fear and took a deep breath. "Remember, the fragments here are fading. We have to find and protect them before they vanish."
The forest seemed to close around them as they stepped beneath the twisted branches. Shadows danced and whispered, distorting shapes just beyond clear sight. The group moved cautiously, senses heightened.
Suddenly, a low growl echoed from the underbrush. The corrupted beasts of the forest were waking.
Lior's heart pounded, but he steadied his hands. The Celestial Code flared faintly—a reminder that he wasn't alone.
Together, they prepared to face the darkness that threatened not just the isles, but their very souls.