As Midas and his companions ventured deeper into the forest, the signs of corruption became more pronounced. They came across corrupted animals, their once vibrant and majestic forms now twisted and darkened by the malevolent energy. The air felt heavy with an unnatural aura, and the vegetation around them took on sickly hues.

"This is getting worse," Mori remarked, her hunter's dagger at the ready. "Whatever is causing this corruption, it's spreading rapidly."

Neres nodded, his bowstring taut as he aimed at a corrupted stag like creature in the distance. "It's like a blight on the land," he said. "We need to find the source and stop it before it's too late."

As they pushed forward, the forest grew more treacherous, and the creatures they encountered became more dangerous. They faced a corrupted dire bear, its size and strength amplified by the dark energy. The battle was intense, but they managed to defeat the beast, each of them contributing their unique skills to the fight.

"I've never seen creatures like this before," Boreas said, his voice filled with awe and concern. "It's as if the very essence of the forest has been tainted."

Midas glanced around, his eyes narrowing as he observed the sickly flora and the corrupted wildlife. "There's a malevolent force at work here," he said, his voice steady. "And it's growing stronger with every step we take."

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As they continued their pursuit, they encountered a pack of corrupted lightning wolves, their eyes gleaming with unnatural energy. The wolves moved with lightning speed, striking from all directions, but Midas and his companions fought back with skill and determination. The battle was fierce, but they emerged victorious, though not without sustaining injuries.

Midas felt a surge of power within him as he stood amidst the fallen wolves. His experience in combat had sharpened his skills, and the energy of the corrupted creatures had contributed to his growth. As the notifications flooded his vision, he realized he had reached level 30. He glanced at his companions, noticing their newfound strength as well.

"Boreas!" Mori exclaimed, her eyes wide with astonishment. "We've gained so many levels in such a short time!"

Boreas, too, was wondering the same. "I've gained five levels!" he said, disbelief evident in his voice. "That puts me on the same level as the commanders of our army back in Verena!"

Midas couldn't help but feel a mixture of confusion and realization. His cultivation and combat experience had allowed him to face off against high-level foes, something that was a rare occurrence for most people in Eos. Their rapid progress was a testament to the challenges they had overcome together.

"It seems our journey together has pushed us to new heights," Midas said, a touch of pride in his voice. "But we can't afford to be complacent. The source of this corruption still eludes us, and it's up to us to put an end to it."

As they pressed on, the forest grew darker, and the sense of danger heightened. They knew that whatever awaited them ahead would test their strength and resolve to the utmost.