Chapter 55: Into the Ravaged Wilds  

The sun barely pierced the gray, overcast sky as the caravan pushed forward at dawn. The land was a wasteland, a stark reminder of the Corruption's relentless spread. Gnarled trees twisted unnaturally toward the heavens, their branches blackened and devoid of life. Patches of crimson grass stretched out like scars across the earth. 

We trudged in silence, the tension from the night's attack lingering like a phantom. The survivors' faces were etched with exhaustion, their steps faltering as hunger and despair gnawed at them. Despite our best efforts to rally their spirits, the weight of the journey was taking its toll. 

The Heartseed pulsed faintly against my chest, its light muted but insistent, urging us forward. 

"Two days," Dren said, breaking the silence as he walked beside me. His voice was low, meant only for my ears. "That's how long we have before the caravan falls apart. Maybe less."