Jaeden prepares to face the swamp hag again, determined to set an ambush rather than be caught off guard. Armed with his sword and the Star Pendant, he crouches by the water’s edge, waiting patiently for the hag’s next move. Just as his focus wavers, the hag strikes unexpectedly, demonstrating her cunning as she attacks from behind. Jaeden reacts just in time to block her vicious slash, though the impact leaves him in pain.

He retaliates, using the Might of Asterius to strengthen his blows, but the hag proves formidable. As she lunges again, Jaeden unleashes the light from his pendant, causing her to recoil in agony. Seizing the opportunity, he delivers a fatal blow, decapitating her and absorbing her essence with his sword. Despite the victory, her severed body lashes out one last time, inflicting additional wounds.

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Panting and bloodied, Jaeden reflects on the fight and the hag’s transformation back to a beautiful maiden after death. A sense of sorrow washes over him as he considers the possibility of her cursed existence. Overwhelmed by emotions, he sheds a tear, only to be interrupted by a mysterious voice from behind him, prompting him to brace for whatever comes next.