Elder Ji heightened his spiritual senses, an instinctive reaction that sent a ripple of alertness through his body. In one swift motion, he unsheathed his weapon, the metallic glint catching the light as he steadied himself, ready to channel his Golden Core and unleash his most powerful spell. "Who goes there?!"
The other elder and their disciples instinctively mirrored his actions, forming a protective circle around one another. Expressions of concern mingled with fierce determination as the atmosphere thickened with an electric sense of urgency. Just as they began to solidify their defenses, rustling sounds emerged from the nearby underbrush, cutting through the silence. The ominous growls of Abyssal Hounds echoed in the distance, becoming louder and more threatening, as if the creatures were closing in on their position with predatory intent.
