Aftermath

However, despite my victory over the golem, I found myself empty-handed, devoid of any new skills or abilities. My hand, once vibrant green, now bore a hardened red hue—a significant transformation. Curiously, my slime companion appeared unscathed by the intense heat I had generated.

The fire array continued to emanate heat, casting fiery pillars and engulfing me in its scorching aura. Stepping off the stones and ceasing the array's activation, I ventured forward, searching for any remnants or corpses that might yield additional skills. Yet, to my dismay, there was nothing in the immediate vicinity.

In a desperate attempt to locate potential sources, I ascended into the air, hoping for a vantage point that might reveal something or someone of interest. Alas, my aerial survey proved fruitless—no signs of life or suitable targets presented themselves.

With a heavy sigh, I consulted the blue screen, which now displayed a mere five remaining survivors. The realization of such dwindling numbers weighed heavily upon me. Fatigued and disheartened, I settled myself near a tree, awaiting the anticipated voice from the sky.

After what seemed like an interminable wait of twenty long minutes, the familiar voice finally echoed through the air, reaching my ears at last. The voice brought with it a renewed sense of purpose and direction, and I prepared myself for the next stage of this grueling ordeal.