Others began emerging, some clutching weapons as if preparing for an ambush, others simply staring in stunned silence.
"It's too bright," a grizzled veteran grumbled, shielding his face with one hand. His voice, usually firm and commanding, was tinged with uncertainty. "Too damn bright. That ain't natural."
The light continued to swell, its intensity reaching the edges of pain, forcing many to turn away or avert their gazes. Yet, even with their eyes closed, they could still feel it—a strange, buzzing heat that seemed to press against their skin and pulse in their veins.
"What's causing it?" a woman asked, her voice rising in pitch. She stood at the edge of the encampment, her hand gripping the hilt of her sword. Her breaths were shallow, and she glanced nervously between her comrades. "Does anyone see where it's coming from?"
"No," someone else replied, their tone sharp with panic. "It's—it's everywhere!"
