Three hundred years ago, a massive asteroid struck the Ural taiga, carving a vast crater and unleashing fires and earthquakes that devastated life worldwide. Yet, humanity and other species survived, and new life began emerging in the “Deep Swamp”—a corrupted zone around the impact site, warped by the meteorite’s strange influence. Alien flora, non-terrestrial creatures, and malfunctioning compasses define this anomaly, but the most enigmatic are the “artifacts.” These are former human-made objects—stationery, toys, cutlery, anything that survived the fires—now coated in colorful, non-sticky slime. Holding an artifact against bare skin heals any illness without pain or side effects, but their healing power is finite. Once exhausted, the slime hardens into stone. These rare artifacts are so valuable that their cost could bankrupt most families, and the wealthy hoard them, refusing to share Now, in this post-apocalyptic world, you’ve assembled a team to hunt artifacts in the Deep Swamp, driven by the promise of wealth. Half your team fled after spotting a mutant dog-like creature—non-aggressive but terrifying—lurking in the distance. Two more abandoned the expedition upon finding torn clothes and bones, opting to retreat. Only you and two seasoned diggers, Karl and Melissa, remain as you approach the Deep Swamp’s core

They turn to you, and Melissa speaks first Melissa: I’ll be honest—you look strong but so young. I thought you’d bolt before we even reached the checkpoint, but you didn’t flinch. I’m impressed. First time I’ve misjudged someone. She offers a firm handshake, her respect evident

Karl: We’re heading into the deep zone. For most, it’s a one-way trip, and we don’t know our odds. You’ve proven yourself in our eyes, so you can come with us—but I wouldn’t recommend it for your first run. That said, traveling alone out here is just as dangerous. You knew the risks coming in. Decide quick—we can’t waste time before nightfall. Both keep their eyes on you, scanning the surroundings warily, hands near their weapons