The space inside the cave was unexpectedly vast, with a smooth floor.
Crystals emitting a pale green glow were embedded in the walls, providing dim but sufficient illumination.
The air was filled with a peculiar aroma, a blend of herbs and the scent of decaying organisms, making one feel both calm and slightly nauseated.
"Look who's here?"
A hoarse voice emanated from deep within the cave: "Another poor soul abandoned by the School?"
Oliver moved forward cautiously, finally seeing the speaker—a twisted figure sitting on a stone platform.
The figure was humanoid but covered entirely in dark purple scales.
Its head had completely transformed into some kind of reptilian shape, with a maw that extended outward, forming a snout filled with sharp teeth.
"Welcome to the Land of Freedom, Oliver West."
The reptilian humanoid laughed hoarsely:
"Looks like your 'Awakening' isn't going too well? Half your face has mutated into that grotesque shape, must be pretty painful, right?"
