The once-violent clearing was now eerily quiet. The oppressive hum of the Warden's energy had faded, leaving only the soft rustling of leaves in the cool breeze. Marcus and Elara stood in the aftermath of the battle, their breaths heavy but synchronized. The ground beneath them bore the scars of the fight—cracked earth, scorched grass, and the lingering scent of ozone.
Elara sheathed her sword, glancing at Marcus. "You alright?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.
Marcus nodded, though his body still felt the weight of the battle. "Yeah, I'll live. Thanks to the system's Essence of the Ancients trick."
System Notification: "Acknowledgment of system's utility noted. You're welcome, Hero!"
Marcus rolled his eyes. "Don't get cocky, system. You're still on thin ice."
System Alert: "Hero's sarcasm detected. Suggestion: Implement gratitude protocols for improved hero-system synergy."
