Sanctuary: Safe Haven

After an hour had passed, Noctis completed his reconnaissance, mapping out most of the vast marshland. His clones darted through the area, unseen and unhindered, gathering detailed information. He quickly relayed the findings back to Flora.

In the sanctuary, Flora stood tall before the gathered sanctuary warriors, her expression calm but stern. She tapped into her magic, enchanting her voice so it boomed across the entire assembly.

"Listen up! Our hunt will proceed in the marshlands. There are swampy areas scattered throughout, so expect problems with mobility. Be aware of your footing and be prepared to face challenges moving through the thick bogs. Noctis has already mapped out the area and provided a detailed report on the monsters that inhabit this marsh.

Mind you, this place is massive, and as Canna-sama has stated, it's swarming with monsters. Expect heavy resistance as soon as you enter."

A murmur rippled through the crowd. Flora's voice cut through it like a blade, listing the threats with precision.

"Here are the main threats you'll be facing:

Swamp Lurkers – These creatures hide beneath the marsh, waiting for unsuspecting prey to wander too close. They're ambush predators, using their long, hooked claws to drag their victims into the muck before they even realize what's happening. Once caught, it's nearly impossible to escape. Their strength lies in their patience and their ability to blend perfectly with the environment.

Keep your eyes on the ground at all times."

Some of the newer warriors exchanged uneasy glances.
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Leech Horrors – These monstrous creatures are not your ordinary leeches. They grow to the size of wolves and attach themselves to their victims, draining not just blood but also life force. If you let one of these latch on, it will weaken you within seconds, and before long, you'll be drained dry.

Their bites are hard to notice until it's too late, and they thrive in damp environments like this marsh."

There were gasps and nervous shuffling as the reality of the hunt set in.

Bog Serpents – Massive serpents that can grow to over 40 feet long. They can slither through the water silently and strike with lightning speed. Their venom causes paralysis within moments, rendering their prey defenseless. Once bitten, there's little chance of escape. They're intelligent, calculating hunters, so don't underestimate them."

Flora paused, letting the tension build before continuing.

Bog Golems – These are creatures made entirely of the swamp itself, living masses of mud and roots. They can reform their bodies even after being torn apart, making them nearly invincible. The only way to kill them is to find and destroy their core, usually hidden deep inside their bodies. They are slow, but relentless and strong. Be cautious if you see movement in the mud."

The warriors remained focused, listening intently to Flora's descriptions.

Fen Creepers – These plant-like creatures hide in the marsh's undergrowth, appearing as nothing more than vines or moss. However, once you're near, they'll lash out, binding their victims with thorny tendrils, injecting them with a paralyzing toxin. They blend into their surroundings perfectly, so don't let your guard down, even if you think the area is clear."

Bog Goliaths – Towering monstrosities that resemble the trees of the marsh itself. These creatures can crush anything in their path with their sheer size and strength. They move slowly, but when they do attack, they can level entire squads in one swing. They are territorial and will not hesitate to defend their land."

Flora's gaze swept across the warriors, particularly eyeing the newer recruits who were visibly shaken by the descriptions.

Venomous Lamias – Half-women, half-serpent creatures. Their beauty is deceptive, and their venom is lethal. They use their charm to lure unsuspecting adventurers into traps, where their powerful coils crush their prey to death. Their venom can paralyze a person almost instantly."

Frogkins – These amphibious humanoids may seem weak, but they hunt in groups. While not particularly strong individually, their numbers make them dangerous. They carry poisoned weapons and are quick to swarm. Never face them alone."

Red Goblins – Unlike their forest cousins, these goblins are aggressive and cunning. They are highly organized and possess magical abilities that allow them to manipulate the swamp to their advantage. Their warlocks can summon creatures from the marsh to fight for them, so be prepared for anything."

Flora paused, letting the tension build further.

Mirelurkers – Large crustacean-like monsters that thrive in swampy environments. They have thick, nearly impenetrable shells and massive claws capable of crushing armor. They're aggressive and will attack anything that comes near their nests."

The newly arrived warriors were pale, many of them realizing the true danger of the hunt. Some of these monsters would require entire squads to bring down. What's worse, the hunt was scheduled to begin at night, in the marsh, where visibility would be poor, and the terrain unforgiving.

Then Flora's next words made the atmosphere even heavier.

"For our beasts, we have located the dens of several potential treasures, as well as the lairs of disaster-ranked monsters. Noctis has identified three disaster-ranked creatures in the marsh. Listen to your Noctis clones at all times to avoid stumbling into their territories."

The newer warriors looked around nervously. To march into a marsh filled with monsters at night was one thing, but to do so knowing there were three disaster-ranked beasts lurking nearby? It felt like suicide.

A loud roar suddenly echoed through the area, startling the newcomers. It was Aurelis.

"Interesting," Aurelis rumbled. "I'll join the hunt as well."

Flora nodded. "We have two disaster-ranked beasts joining us, along with two pseudo-disaster ranks. They'll focus on the disaster-ranked creatures in the marsh. Lastly, for the newcomers—this hunt may be too difficult for you, given the monsters and the terrain. I recommend sitting this one out."

The atmosphere was thick with tension, especially among the newer warriors. Some had begun to doubt whether they should have joined at all. Then, Flora's voice rang out again, this time filled with pride and determination.

"To those who will join the hunt, the portal opens in five minutes. It will lead you to different entrances around the marsh. Remember—do not lose hope, for we are hope!"

The sanctuary warriors erupted into chants of "HOPE! HOPE! HOPE!" Their voices echoed through the night, their spirits high despite the danger ahead.

Meanwhile, outside the sanctuary, Canna and Sygon still observed the marsh.

"We can go through it, Sygon," Canna said confidently. "There's no need for a detour. My people will have it cleared before morning."

Sygon hesitated, eyeing the ominous swamp ahead. "Master, I fought a mud drake here—a massive one. Its territory lies near the center of the marsh. And I've seen a queen lamia too. These creatures... they're not to be trifled with.

Are you certain we should proceed?"

Canna smiled, unbothered by the warnings. "Even better. Flora, begin the hunt."

Back at the sanctuary, the portals opened. It was time for the hunt to begin. The sanctuary warriors, eager for the fight, rushed into the portals, ready to face whatever the marshlands had in store.