An hour passed while I remained at the base camp, using the time to plan our next strategic moves. The examination was progressing, but the resource situation was becoming increasingly clear.
No additional shrines had been spotted by any of our teams except for the contested one where Seraphina's group was operating. Similarly, no white donkeys had approached our river position despite our advantageous location.
'The resources are becoming scarce and difficult to find,' I thought to myself. 'This will force teams to start targeting each other directly to acquire Crest Marks.'
This development was predictable. As easily accessible resources depleted, the examination would naturally evolve into more direct competition between teams. The academy had likely designed it this way intentionally, testing not just puzzle-solving and hunting abilities, but also tactical combat and resource denial.
The communication crystal suddenly rang, interrupting my strategic planning.
