The underground laboratory had been cleared out, leaving only the massive, circular cultivation pool.
A viscous, blood-red liquid churned in the pool. It was a "high-energy nutrient solution" specially prepared for the "Life Field," containing five hundred grams of dissolved Original Blood Crystals and a large quantity of Alchemy Potions designed to soften bone and reshape muscle. Bubbles burst on the surface, releasing a nauseatingly sweet and metallic stench.
Stuka stood at the edge of the pool, its huge talons restlessly scraping against the rock floor and creating a harsh, grating sound.
Its golden eyes stared at the pool's surface, the feathers on its neck bristling as a low growl rumbled in its throat.
"Shorty."
Stuka's voice, transmitted through the hive terminal, arrived in Ola's mind.
"Your boss wants to cook me. He definitely does. This stuff smells like goblin-brewed swill."
