The Wasteland was a silent, desolate expanse. Here, the world seemed forgotten, with only the whispers of wind and sand remaining. Across the boundless land beneath the vast sky, there was nothing but desolation.
In this endless desert, dunes rose and fell like sleeping giants. The sun mercilessly scorched the earth, staining everything a burnt yellow. Winds raged here, whipping up sand and dust, sometimes forming sandstorms that blotted out the sky and swallowed everything in a murky haze.
Traces of life were scarce in this desolate world. Occasionally, a few stubborn shrubs could be seen with their branches drooping, struggling to survive amid the wind and sand. Their roots sank deep into the dry earth, as though fighting against the desert itself.
Beneath this place lay the secret of the Predecessor Civilization's Ascension.
A makeshift site.
Jonas stood inside the tent, facing the people he had always trusted. His voice was calm. "If you encounter Dorothy, try to stop her from going down below. But remember, if you sense any danger or things start looking bad, retreat immediately. Make it look as though you've done everything you could."
He knew the Predecessor Civilization's consciousness entity was not to be underestimated. Any direct confrontation could trigger unnecessary conflict. "Stay on high alert. We need to create the illusion that it can only get down there after overcoming tremendous difficulties."
Everyone's expression grew serious.
"I'll take Beigong Ling and Celine down and wait there. Dorothy should arrive soon. Esnie, wait around here. If you notice anything wrong, do what I told you to do."
"I understand, Mr. Jonas. Please..."
Esnie threw her arms around him and drew a deep breath. "Please make sure you come back safely."
"Don't worry. The plan is all in place. Now we just need to wait