Screams split the camp Starweaver scouts dropped from tents, nano-blades humming blue death. Rain-slick sand turned mud under boots.
Tobi surged, threads piercing first scout's chest lesser soul bound, popping green like overripe fruit. "East confirmed!" Zara yelled, voice steady despite pale cheeks.
Yusuf's beast trampled a second, golden claws rending cloak to ribbons, envy stench exploding sour. Nneka hacked the third's blade mid-swing, sparks flew, code frying circuits with uli-pop.
Mid-tier leader emerged, shadows coiling like smoke serpents. "Slayer's woman weakens take her eyes!".
Tobi vanished in stolen shadow domain, reappearing behind, threads yanked domain free, cold snap filling his lungs with frostbite chill. Leader gasped, form unraveling to ash confetti.
Zara swayed, final vision draining her: "More come... high-tier guardian awakens."
Darkness swallowed her sight completely.
Tobi caught her limp body, rage icing his smirk. "Rest now. They pay double."
Camp smoldered, crew bloodied but unbroken.
Yusuf bandaged wounds. "Dawn march, guardian waits."