With the new land purchased, I feel a sense of accomplishment. But now, I'm restless. The stone circle—those ancient stones, humming with energy—has been on my mind ever since I first saw it. I can't ignore it any longer.
I look over at Aric, still keeping watch from the shelter's perimeter. I'll leave him to guard for now. There's no immediate threat, and this is something I have to do alone.
With a firm step, I head toward the clearing once more, my heart pounding with curiosity.
---
The forest grows denser as I move, the path narrowing between thick trees. The air feels thick, like there's something about this place that defies the natural world. I push through the underbrush, the stone circle coming into view once again.
The stones are still standing there, just as I left them—tall, ancient, and covered in moss. The hum I felt earlier is even stronger now, vibrating through the ground beneath my feet. It's unsettling, but I can't back away now. I need to know what this is.
I step forward, my hand brushing against one of the stones. The vibration intensifies, and for a moment, I feel a strange pull, like the stone is calling to me. The sensation is almost too much to bear, but I hold my ground.
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[System Update: Investigation of the Stone Circle]
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The screen flashes before me, and the system provides an update.
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[Mission Update: Investigate the Stone Circle]
Gold Earned: 10
New Mission: Activate the Stone Circle (Requires 25 Gold)
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I stare at the screen in confusion. Activate the Stone Circle? What does that mean? I can't help but wonder what could be waiting if I do. The stones are already giving off an otherworldly energy. What happens if I unlock whatever the system is asking for?
I step back, considering. 25 gold to activate the circle... I've only just used up my gold for land expansion, but maybe this is worth it. The stones could be a key to unlocking something bigger.
I'm still unsure, but the pull is undeniable. I've come this far.
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