The crimson lake, which had been stirring faintly, suddenly began to churn violently as if some colossal creature were awakening beneath the surface.

In the next moment, monstrous tentacles, each as thick as a water barrel, emerged from the lake. They were formed from viscous blood and foul malevolent energy.

With a sickening screech and a gale of coppery stench, the tendrils lashed out like a nest of giant serpents. They whipped and coiled from all directions, aiming to crush and entangle the group on the narrow path.

"Watch out!" Rhydian roared.

He swung his blade at the crimson tentacle lunging for Grace. The blade collided with the tentacle, producing the sound of metal clashing against metal as sparks flew.

The tentacle was incredibly resilient and contained powerful corrosive energy. The impact numbed his arm, and his blade was instantly covered with a layer of crimson filth, dimming its spiritual light.

The two other guards also swung their blades to defend, but their at