We took our first steps into the clearing, and the ground felt like it was pulsing beneath us, a heartbeat slow and dark, as though the very earth was alive with the curse. A heavy silence filled the space, pressing down on us, broken only by our cautious breaths. Even the air seemed to thicken, carrying a bitter metallic taste. It was clear this was no ordinary place. This was the very core of the Shadowbound magic, and I could feel its weight in every inch of my being.
Zara adjusted her pack, her fingers brushing over the charms she had prepared. Her face was pale but set with determination. "The symbols carved here," she whispered, eyes darting over the stones, "they're channels—designed to draw energy from anyone who steps within them. We need to be careful; it could sap our strength if we linger too long."
