Chapter 193: Chapter 193: System's Vigil

Zara remained at her vigilance post atop the wall, her eyes fixed on the horizon where she expected to see Elio's advance. Flare, her salamander, curled around her neck, its warmth a small comfort in the cool night air.

The original plan that everyone knew was simple: Elio would walk around the wall, absorbing cores.

Zara expected to see changes in the surface of the sea of monsters, signs of Elio's progress. However, hours passed and the absorption was slow to start.

Worry took hold of Zara, growing with each hour that passed without signs of activity. Her mind couldn't stop imagining terrible scenarios, each one worse than the last. Flare sensed her distress, its scales flickering with an anxious light.

What if Elio had failed the challenge?

What if he was injured?

Or worse...

What if he was unconscious, hungry, and needed SOMEONE TO RESCUE HIM in the depths of the sea of monsters?! (Relax girl…)