The Eternal Strive

The journey to Eldros was grueling. The land between Velsaria and the ruins was riddled with dangers—twisted remnants of past conflicts, rogue Strive beasts, and unstable energy pockets left behind by ancient battles.

Caden and Seraphis moved swiftly, avoiding unnecessary fights, but even then, the chaotic energy within them made them stand out. Beasts that normally avoided human presence now stalked them with eerie fascination, drawn to the unstable force leaking from their bodies.

By the time they reached the outskirts of Eldros, the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting the ancient city in a ghostly glow.

The Ruins of Eldros were vast—an abandoned metropolis swallowed by time. Towering spires crumbled under the weight of centuries, and the streets were lined with faded inscriptions, remnants of an era long past. The air crackled with unseen forces, as if the city itself still breathed with latent power.

Caden's All-Knowing Eye flickered as he scanned the ruins.

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System Alert: Ruins of Eldros Detected!

Ancient Strive Energy Present.

Possible Balance Core Awakening Site.

Warning: Unknown Guardian Detected.

---

His gaze sharpened. A guardian?

Seraphis smirked as she stretched her arms. "Well, looks like we're not alone."

A deep, resonating growl echoed from within the ruins.

From the darkness of the city's entrance, a massive figure emerged—its body composed of shifting stone and glowing sigils, its form neither beast nor man.

Its eyes burned with golden and violet fire.

A construct. A guardian left behind to protect whatever lay hidden inside.

It moved forward with slow, deliberate steps, its booming voice shaking the air.

"You carry the Rift's taint. The forbidden energy must not enter these sacred grounds."

Caden steadied himself, feeling the Rift energy stir violently within him.

Seraphis's flames flickered to life. "Looks like we'll have to fight our way in."

The Guardian of Eldros raised a colossal fist. "Leave now, or be erased."

Caden exhaled, gripping his sword. There was no turning back.

The battle for Eldros had begun.