Chapter 647
Reaching the beach, they found an ancient stone circle half-buried in the sand, its runes glowing faintly through the mist. Dr. Hargrove examined the stones closely, recognizing the inscriptions. "These runes are a protective enchantment, designed to control or contain something powerful. It appears they've weakened over time."
Mira nodded, tracing the runes with her fingers. "We need to strengthen the enchantment to push back the fog. But first, we need to find the source of this energy."
They followed the fog inland, deeper into the forest, where they discovered a hidden glade. In the center of the glade stood an enormous tree, ancient and gnarled, its roots sprawling out like giant serpents. The tree was unlike any other on the island, its bark shimmering with an ethereal glow.
Nefertari approached the tree cautiously. "This tree is the source. It's drawing energy from the island and releasing it into the air, creating the fog."