As the group rested in the grove, the calm was a temporary reprieve from the dangers lurking in the dungeon. Though they had survived the battle, they knew their journey was far from over.
They still had to find the next Boss to secure a real Safe Zone—and they knew the dungeon wouldn't make it easy for them.
Preparation in the Grove – Checking Their Items
As the group sat in the restored Grove of the Forgotten, the glow of the purified sanctuary offered them a moment of peace. This brief respite was more than just a chance to catch their breath—it was a time to prepare for the battles ahead. With the Corrupted Guardian defeated and the dungeon's influence momentarily held back, they took the opportunity to review their equipment and gather their thoughts.
Mellali, Hadjer, Korrak, and even Fenna knew that the dungeon would respond eventually. Their priority now was to ensure they were fully equipped and ready before moving deeper into the ruins in search of the next Boss. They hadn't used many of the items they had acquired earlier, as some required time to attune and understand. But now, with that time behind them, it was the perfect moment to check their gear, inspect their spells, and make strategic decisions.
---
Checking the Loot and Equipping New Gear
Mellali Mohamed (Aberrant Mind Sorcerer – Aasimar – Level 7)
Mellali carefully laid out the items he had picked up from previous encounters, including the loot from the plunderers and the Corrupted Guardian. He had been cautious about using them before, but now, after having time to study the arcane properties, he felt more confident.
Ring of Barkskin: Mellali slipped the Ring of Barkskin onto his finger, feeling its magic flow through him. The ring provided him with a solid base defense, giving him a reliable AC of 16. Though he preferred to rely on his spells like Shield, having this passive defense would give him more flexibility in battle.
Amulet of Wild Shape: While Mellali was no druid, the Amulet of Wild Shape intrigued him. It allowed him to cast Wild Shape once per day, transforming into an animal for scouting or stealth. While not a central part of his skill set, it could be used creatively in tough situations.
Potion of Superior Healing: Mellali tucked the Potion of Superior Healing into his pack, knowing it could save his life in dire moments. With his relatively low hit points, a healing potion this powerful was invaluable.
Gold from Plunderers: Mellali counted the 300 gold pieces they had taken from the plunderers. While gold didn't have much use inside the dungeon, it could be traded with certain dungeon merchants or for powerful magical items in future Safe Zones.
---
Hadjer (Eladrin Wizard – Bladesinger – Level 7)
Hadjer was methodical in her preparation, quietly inspecting her equipment and new spells. She wasn't one for speaking much, but her movements were sure and deliberate as she equipped her new items.
Gargoyle's Eye: This magical trinket allowed Hadjer to petrify a creature once per day for 1 minute. While limited, it could be a game-changer in combat, particularly against larger foes or enemies they needed to neutralize quickly.
Ring of Barkskin: Though Hadjer already had high agility thanks to her Bladesong, equipping the Ring of Barkskin raised her passive AC to 16 when she wasn't using Bladesong, giving her added protection in moments when she wasn't relying on magical defenses.
Potion of Greater Healing: Like Mellali, Hadjer stored away a Potion of Greater Healing, knowing that it could make the difference in battle.
---
Korrak (Barbarian – Level 7)
Korrak was less concerned about the magical intricacies of the items and more interested in their practical use. Still, after their last encounter, he understood the value of being well-prepared.
Twisted Root Fragment: Korrak wasn't a spellcaster, but the Twisted Root Fragment they had gathered from the Guardian held powerful energy. He handed it to Mellali, knowing the sorcerer could likely make better use of it in future enchantments.
Potion of Superior Healing: Korrak downed one of the Potions of Superior Healing without hesitation, fully replenishing his health after the bruising blows from the Guardian.
Gold from Plunderers: Korrak pocketed his share of the gold—100 gold pieces—though his interest in wealth was minimal compared to the thrill of battle.
---
Reviewing New Spells and Spell Strategy (Level 7)
Mellali Mohamed (Aberrant Mind Sorcerer – Level 7)
As a powerful sorcerer, Mellali took time to reflect on his new spells and how to best combine them for future encounters. The Aberrant Mind granted him access to powerful psionic abilities, and now, with his increased sorcery points, he had the flexibility to shift between offense and defense as needed.
New Spells Known:
Greater Invisibility (4th level): Mellali could now vanish completely in combat, maintaining invisibility even while attacking. Combined with his ranged psionic attacks, this made him a deadly, unseen threat on the battlefield.
Counterspell (3rd level): This defensive spell allowed Mellali to shut down enemy spellcasters before they could unleash their most dangerous abilities. He knew this would be essential against future bosses.
Spell Strategy: Mellali considered the combinations he could use in battle:
Greater Invisibility + Mind Spike: This combo allowed Mellali to remain invisible while continuously dealing psychic damage, targeting enemies without revealing his position.
Psionic Sorcery + Counterspell: Mellali could use his sorcery points to cast Counterspell as a reaction, saving his spell slots for offensive moves.
Mind Whip + Twinned Spell: By using Twinned Spell, he could cast Tasha's Mind Whip on two targets at once, reducing their ability to act in combat and gaining control of the battlefield.
---
Hadjer (Eladrin Wizard – Bladesinger – Level 7)
Hadjer, as a Bladesinger, blended arcane magic with martial prowess. She reviewed her new spells carefully, considering how to best use them in tandem with her agility and swordsmanship.
New Spells Known:
Greater Invisibility (4th level): Like Mellali, Hadjer had access to Greater Invisibility, which could make her a lethal, undetectable threat in combat. Paired with her Bladesong, this would make her nearly impossible to hit.
Dimension Door (4th level): This spell allowed Hadjer and one ally to teleport up to 500 feet away. In a dungeon filled with traps and deadly encounters, it could be used to escape or position them for a surprise attack.
Spell Strategy: Hadjer's strength lay in combining her magic with her physical abilities:
Greater Invisibility + Bladesong: She could become invisible while moving with unparalleled speed and grace, striking from the shadows without fear of reprisal.
Mirror Image + Extra Attack: By creating multiple illusory copies of herself, she could confuse enemies while delivering rapid attacks with her rapier, making her nearly untouchable.
Dimension Door + Counterspell: Hadjer could use Dimension Door to reposition herself and Mellali or Korrak, and then quickly cast Counterspell to neutralize any dangerous enemy spells.
---
Preparing for What's Next
The group, now fully equipped and aware of their new capabilities, felt the weight of the dungeon's looming challenges. The Grove of the Forgotten had given them a brief window of peace, but it wouldn't last forever. The dungeon would react soon, and they had to be ready.
Mellali glanced at Hadjer, who was quietly adjusting her swordbelt. "We've got everything we need," he said, his voice low. "But we need to stay sharp. The next challenge is coming soon."
Hadjer gave him a small nod, her expression calm but focused. "We're ready."
Korrak stood up, stretching his muscles. "Hope whatever's next gives me a better fight than that last Guardian."
Fenna, who had been silent for much of their preparation, finally spoke up. "The dungeon will respond soon. It always does. But with the Grove purified, we have a bit more time to prepare. Let's use it wisely."
The Grove of the Forgotten – A False Safe Zone
The air within the Grove of the Forgotten was still, almost eerily calm. The group had just finished equipping their newly acquired items, and for the first time in hours, it seemed as if they might be able to rest. The sanctuary's serene glow and the purified natural magic gave them a fleeting sense of security. But Mellali's instincts gnawed at him—something was wrong.
As the group settled in, a sudden pulse of dark energy surged through the grove. The once-restored vegetation began to wither, and the trees that had regained their vibrant color moments ago now twisted and blackened once more. The ground trembled beneath their feet, and the once-soft glow of the sanctuary's light dimmed to a sickly green. The walls of the grove pulsed like a living thing, the air growing thicker with malevolent intent.
Hadjer's hand moved to her rapier instinctively, her calm demeanor cracking slightly as she sensed the danger. "Mellali… this place—"
Mellali cut her off, eyes narrowed, scanning the surroundings. "It's not a safe zone. It never was."
Fenna, who had been silent, stepped back in horror. "No… the Grove… it's turning against us."
Suddenly, the ground split open, and corrupted creatures began to crawl out of the earth. Twisted by the dungeon's dark magic, these creatures were a horrific blend of nature and nightmare—roots and vines twisted into grotesque, monstrous forms. They hissed and screeched, their eyes glowing with unnatural fury. This was no longer a place of sanctuary; it was a death trap.
---
The Fight for Survival Begins
The creatures—six twisted nature abominations—charged toward the group. Each one was larger than a man, their bodies writhing with corrupted roots and vines that lashed out with deadly force.
AC: 18
HP (each): 150
Korrak was the first to react, gripping his greataxe tightly as he positioned himself between the creatures and the group. "Get ready! They're coming fast!"
The first of the abominations lunged at Korrak, its vine-like limbs reaching out to ensnare him.
(Damage: 25 bludgeoning)
The vines slammed into Korrak's chest, knocking him back. He grunted in pain, but his rage fueled him, keeping him on his feet. With a roar, he swung his greataxe in retaliation.
(Damage: 24 slashing)
His blade cut deep into the abomination, but the creature barely flinched. The vines reformed almost immediately, hissing as they continued their relentless assault.
---
Mellali's First Move – Strategic Spells
Mellali, eyes darting around, quickly realized that brute strength alone wouldn't save them here. These creatures were regenerating too quickly. He had to think fast. With a flash of inspiration, he used his Greater Invisibility spell, vanishing from sight to gain a tactical advantage.
(Mellali casts Greater Invisibility: Now invisible)
From the shadows, Mellali cast Tasha's Mind Whip, aiming to slow down two of the abominations.
(Damage: 18 psychic damage each, both are limited to one action next turn)
The creatures screeched as the psychic energy tore through their minds, briefly halting their advance. But Mellali knew this was only a temporary reprieve—they needed to find a way to stop the regeneration or they would be overwhelmed.
---
Hadjer's Bladesong Activated
Hadjer, her Bladesong already active, moved with lightning speed across the battlefield. She aimed for the weaker points of the abominations, targeting the parts of their bodies where the corrupted vines were thinner.
( Damage: 20 piercing)
(Damage: 18 piercing)
Her rapier flashed in the dim light as she slashed through the creature's body, but like Korrak's attack, the vines began to reform almost immediately. Her eyes narrowed in frustration. "They're regenerating faster than we can damage them!"
---
The Death Trap Revealed
Fenna, who had been focusing on defending herself, suddenly gasped as the true horror of the false safe zone became clear. The grove itself was feeding the creatures—every time the abominations were hit, the ground would pulse with dark energy, sending healing magic into their bodies.
"They're drawing power from the grove!" Fenna shouted. "We have to cut off their connection!"
Mellali, still invisible, shouted back, "The Grove Seed! We need to destroy the corrupted magic fueling this trap!"
---
Using the Items – Fighting for Survival
The group quickly realized that their newly acquired items would be their only hope of survival. Each of them began using the items they had just equipped, desperate to turn the tide of battle.
Mellali's Use of the Twisted Root Fragment
Mellali pulled out the Twisted Root Fragment, an artifact taken from the Corrupted Guardian earlier. He remembered that it had the power to interfere with nature magic. Quickly, he focused his arcane energy through the fragment, disrupting the grove's dark magic.
(Mellali uses Twisted Root Fragment: Grove's regeneration effect weakened by 50%)
The pulsing energy of the grove dimmed slightly, and the abominations let out an ear-piercing shriek as their regeneration slowed. "It's working!" Mellali called out, though he knew it wouldn't be enough on its own.
Hadjer's Use of Gargoyle's Eye
Hadjer, always quick to act, pulled out the Gargoyle's Eye. Without hesitation, she aimed it at the largest of the abominations, focusing its petrifying magic on the creature.
(Abomination is petrified for 1 minute)
The creature froze mid-attack, its body turning to stone. "That'll buy us some time!" Hadjer called out, knowing they had to act fast before the petrification wore off.
Korrak's Use of Amulet of Wild Shape
Korrak, though not one for magical items, had equipped the Amulet of Wild Shape earlier. With a grunt of frustration, he activated the amulet, transforming into a massive bear. His size and strength increased tenfold, and he charged into the fray, tearing through the vines with his powerful claws.
( Damage: 30 slashing)
As a bear, Korrak was able to deal significant damage, slashing through the abominations with brute force. But even as he tore into them, the remaining abominations continued to regenerate, albeit at a slower rate.
---
The Fight Turns Desperate
Despite their efforts, the battle raged on. The abominations, though weakened, were relentless, and the grove's dark influence continued to pulse beneath their feet. The creatures pressed their advantage, attacking with renewed fury.
One of the abominations lashed out at Hadjer with its corrupted vines, catching her off guard.
(Damage: 28 bludgeoning)
Hadjer was thrown back, her Bladesong barely keeping her on her feet. Blood trickled from her mouth as she struggled to stay upright. "I can't… hold them off much longer!" she gasped.
Mellali, still invisible, watched in horror as Hadjer faltered. He knew they were being pushed to the brink. They needed to finish this, and fast.
---
Fenna's Final Gambit – The Grove Seed's True Power
Realizing the situation was growing dire, Fenna stepped forward, clutching the Grove Seed tightly. She had hesitated to use it before, but now, there was no choice. Channeling all her druidic magic into the seed, she unleashed its full power.
A wave of pure, natural energy burst from the seed, flooding the grove and severing the corrupted magic that was fueling the abominations.
(Fenna uses Grove Seed: Corruption is completely purged from the grove)
The pulse of magic hit the abominations like a tidal wave, causing them to writhe in agony as their connection to the grove was severed. Their regeneration ceased entirely, and they began to wither, their bodies collapsing in on themselves as the dark magic left them.
---
The Final Push – Victory at the Brink of Death
As the chaotic pulse of magic from the Grove Seed washed over the battlefield, severing the abominations' connection to the corrupted energy of the grove, a momentary hush settled over the desecrated sanctuary. But the battle was far from over. The twisted creatures, while weakened and writhing in pain, were still very much alive, and their grotesque forms continued to lurch toward the group. It was a fight for survival—one they were barely holding onto.
Mellali, still invisible thanks to his Greater Invisibility spell, saw the opening created by Fenna's powerful act of purification. With the abominations' regeneration halted and their connection to the grove severed, he knew this was their best and likely last chance to strike before they were overwhelmed.
But the creatures, sensing their imminent destruction, fought back with a renewed desperation. They had been made by the dungeon to serve as relentless predators, and they would not go down without a vicious, final stand.
---
The Abominations' Last Fury
The largest of the remaining abominations—its body now flickering with dark energy—reared up and lashed out at the group with a fury none of them expected. Roots and vines, now no longer regenerating but still filled with dark power, whipped across the battlefield like living snakes, aiming to tear apart anything they touched.
One of the massive, thorny vines shot toward Hadjer, moving too fast for her to dodge.
(Damage: 30 bludgeoning)
The vine slammed into Hadjer's side, sending her crashing into the grove's twisted tree, her body crumpling against the dark bark. The impact left her gasping for breath, her hand gripping her rapier weakly. Blood stained her lips as she tried to stand, her Bladesong flickering out momentarily from the sheer force of the blow.
"Hadjer!" Mellali shouted, though he was still invisible, the concern in his voice betraying his usual calm. He moved toward her, but the creatures were everywhere, blocking his path.
Korrak, in his bear form, growled in rage and charged at the same abomination that had attacked Hadjer. His massive claws slashed through the vine-like limbs of the creature with brutal efficiency, but the monster fought back with relentless ferocity, its body seemingly fueled by whatever dark power was keeping it alive.
(Damage: 28 slashing)
The abomination screeched as Korrak's claws ripped through its body, but its tendrils wrapped around Korrak's bear form in response, squeezing him tightly in an attempt to crush him.
Korrak let out a pained roar as the vines constricted around him, the pressure threatening to break his ribs. His strength was fading, and even in his bear form, he couldn't break free.
---
Mellali's Strategic Counter – Combination of Spells
Mellali knew that brute force alone wouldn't win this fight. His mind raced, considering every combination of spells he had left. He could feel his magic draining, but he still had enough to turn the tide if he played his cards right.
First, he cast Mind Whip again, targeting the abomination that had grappled Korrak, hoping to weaken its control and give Korrak a chance to escape.
(Damage: 22 psychic damage, Abomination is restricted to one action next turn)
The creature's vine-like limbs spasmed as the psychic energy tore through its mind, loosening its grip on Korrak just enough for him to wrench himself free. Korrak, panting heavily and still in bear form, managed to break the vines, though he was severely injured from the crushing pressure.
"Keep it distracted!" Mellali shouted, still invisible, as he prepared his next move. He knew they needed to shut down the other abominations before they regrouped.
---
Hadjer's Grit – Holding the Line
Hadjer, though battered and bleeding, wasn't about to let the abominations have their way. She wiped the blood from her mouth and stood shakily, reigniting her Bladesong as she darted forward. Her injuries slowed her, but her movements were still precise. She targeted the petrified abomination, which was starting to break free of its stone prison.
(Damage: 18 piercing)
(Damage: 16 piercing)
Her rapier slashed through the creature's vines, the stone cracking as it tried to break free. Though it was still partially restrained, the abomination was beginning to regain its mobility, its body vibrating with corrupted energy.
Suddenly, another abomination lurched toward Hadjer, its movements frantic as it lashed out with its thorned limbs.
(Damage: 32 bludgeoning)
The blow struck Hadjer again, throwing her to the ground. She gritted her teeth, struggling to get up, her body aching from the repeated hits. Her vision blurred, but she refused to fall. She couldn't afford to.
---
Korrak's Rampage – Fighting to Survive
Korrak, seeing Hadjer in danger, let out a feral roar. His transformation had taken its toll, but he was far from finished. Now free from the abomination's grasp, he charged once again, this time aiming for the creature that had knocked Hadjer down.
( Damage: 28 slashing)
(Damage: 25 slashing)
Korrak's claws tore through the abomination, sending vines flying across the grove. But the creature was relentless, and though severely damaged, it refused to fall. Korrak grunted in frustration, his bear form flickering as the magic of the Amulet of Wild Shape began to wane. He couldn't hold the transformation much longer.
---
The Grove's Dark Magic Strikes Back
As if sensing the group's weakening state, the grove itself seemed to come alive. The ground beneath their feet began to tremble, and dark energy surged up from the earth. Vines, corrupted and filled with the dungeon's malevolence, began to writhe once more, threatening to overwhelm them.
Fenna, her face pale with exhaustion from channeling the Grove Seed, shouted a warning. "The grove is fighting back! It's trying to reclaim the magic we stole!"
The vines shot up from the ground, aiming to ensnare Mellali, Korrak, and Hadjer. Each vine was imbued with the dark energy of the dungeon, moving with terrifying speed and precision.
---
Mellali's Final Gambit – The Last Combination
Mellali knew this was it—their last stand. He had one final trick up his sleeve, but it would take everything he had left. He raised his hand, now visible as his Greater Invisibility faded, and unleashed a Twinned Mind Spike, targeting both the petrified abomination and the one attacking Hadjer.
(Damage: 40 psychic damage to each)
The psychic energy ripped through both creatures simultaneously, their twisted minds unable to withstand the assault. The petrified abomination cracked completely, its body shattering into a thousand pieces as it collapsed. The other abomination let out a final screech before crumbling, its corrupted form disintegrating into ash.
But the remaining abominations were still closing in. Mellali's vision blurred with exhaustion, his magic nearly drained.
---
Fenna's Last Act – The Grove Seed's Ultimate Power
Fenna, realizing they had no other choice, poured the last of her strength into the Grove Seed. It pulsed with radiant light, brighter than before, and the energy within it exploded outward, engulfing the entire grove.
The remaining abominations writhed in agony as the pure, natural magic of the grove tore through them, severing their connection to the dungeon once and for all.
(All remaining Abominations take 50 radiant damage)
The abominations let out one final, tortured wail before collapsing, their bodies withering into dust as the magic consumed them. The ground trembled one last time before falling still. The twisted vines that had attacked them shriveled and died, and the grove finally returned to silence.
---
Victory at the Brink of Death
Mellali, barely able to stand, nodded in agreement. His magic was drained, his body exhausted from the relentless battle, but they had survived. The false safe zone had been a cunning death trap, one that nearly claimed their lives, but through sheer determination, strategy, and the clever use of their newfound items, they had managed to overcome the seemingly impossible.
Fenna, holding the now-dimmed Grove Seed in her trembling hands, collapsed to her knees. The energy she had channeled from the seed had taken everything from her, but the relief on her face was palpable. The threat was gone, and the grove was finally still.
The air around them, which had once been thick with corruption and dark magic, now felt lighter—though the sense of foreboding that always lingered in the dungeon remained. The twisted vines had withered completely, and the once-dying trees stood tall and proud once more. The dungeon, for now, had been beaten back.
---
Assessing the Damage
Korrak dropped to the ground with a grunt, his usual bravado replaced with pure exhaustion. "Well," he panted, wiping blood from his brow, "that was about the closest I've ever come to seeing the other side. But we made it."
Hadjer, leaning against a tree to steady herself, gave a small, tired smile in response. "It's a miracle we're still standing."
Mellali, ever the strategist, remained quiet for a moment, looking around at the battlefield littered with the remains of the corrupted abominations. His mind was still racing, running through everything that had just transpired. They had been moments away from death, and if not for their quick thinking and the use of their newly equipped items, they would likely have been overwhelmed. He let out a slow breath, trying to steady himself.
"We can't stay here," Mellali said finally, his voice calm but firm. "This place is still dangerous. It's not a true Safe Zone, and the dungeon knows we're here. We need to move."
Hadjer nodded, wiping the sweat from her brow. "We're in no shape to keep fighting, though. We need to regroup, find an actual Safe Zone if we can."
---
The Loot and Final XP Gain
Before they moved on, they took a moment to check for any loot the abominations might have left behind. Despite the grove's corruption, there were still remnants of magical power in the creatures they had fought.
Loot from the Abominations:
Heart of the Grove: A rare magical core taken from one of the abominations. It radiates powerful nature magic and can be used for high-level enchantments.
Ring of Regeneration: This magical ring allows the wearer to regenerate 1d4 hit points every 10 minutes, up to a maximum of 20 HP per day.
Shard of Corruption: A fragment of the dark magic that once fueled the abominations. It can be used for crafting dark-aligned magical items or sold to the right merchant for a high price.
XP Gained:
Mellali Mohamed (Aberrant Mind Sorcerer – Aasimar – Level 7)
4,500 XP gained from the fight.
Current XP: 37,000 XP (Mellali is now Level 8).
Hadjer (Eladrin Wizard – Bladesinger – Level 7)
4,500 XP gained from the fight.
Current XP: 37,000 XP (Hadjer is now Level 8).
Korrak (Barbarian – Level 7)
4,500 XP gained from the fight.
Current XP: 37,500 XP (Korrak is now Level 8).
---
Level 8 – New Abilities and Features
Mellali Mohamed (Aberrant Mind Sorcerer – Level 8)
HP: 55
New Feat or Ability Score Increase: Mellali chooses to increase his Charisma to 20, boosting his spellcasting power to its peak.
New Spells: Mellali learns Polymorph (4th-level spell), allowing him to transform himself or others into a variety of creatures. This could be crucial for both combat and utility in future encounters.
Hadjer (Eladrin Wizard – Bladesinger – Level 8)
HP: 54
New Feat or Ability Score Increase: Hadjer increases her Intelligence to 20, maximizing her spellcasting potential.
New Spells: Hadjer learns Fire Shield (4th-level spell), a defensive spell that also damages enemies who attack her. She also learns Greater Restoration (5th-level spell), which could save them from curses or other debilitating effects.
Korrak (Barbarian – Level 8)
HP: 90
New Feat or Ability Score Increase: Korrak increases his Constitution to 18, making him even harder to kill.
New Feature: Korrak gains the ability Brutal Critical, allowing him to roll additional damage dice when he lands a critical hit.
---
Leaving the Grove – Searching for a True Safe Zone
The group, now stronger and more experienced than before, gathered their gear and prepared to leave the Grove of the Forgotten behind. Despite their victory, the grove's treachery had left them wary of trusting anything in this dungeon. It had nearly cost them everything.
As they moved through the now-quiet grove, Mellali couldn't help but feel the weight of the battle still pressing down on him. They had been pushed to the very edge of defeat, and the only reason they had survived was because of their quick thinking and trust in their equipment. But the dungeon was always watching, always waiting for them to falter.
"Next time, we'll be ready," Mellali muttered to himself, his mind already racing through new strategies.
Hadjer walked quietly beside him, her usually calm demeanor strained by the weight of the battle they had just fought. Though she remained quiet, her presence was steady—a reminder that no matter how dire things became, they would always find a way through it together.
Fenna, though weary, kept pace behind them, her eyes scanning the dungeon for any signs of movement. She had proven herself, but the battle had taken a toll on her as well. Still, there was a determination in her eyes, a silent promise that she would not let the dungeon defeat her.
Korrak, ever the warrior, remained at the rear, his massive greataxe resting on his shoulder as they moved. "So, what's the plan?" he asked, breaking the silence. "We going to find a real Safe Zone this time, or are we just walking into another trap?"
Mellali glanced back at him, his face serious. "We'll find one. But we're not trusting anything we see from now on. This dungeon plays dirty, and we need to be smarter."