Chapter 432: Chapter 432: The Awakening Trial

The descent into the dark passage was like walking into the belly of a beast. The walls, cold and damp, seemed to close in around them as Elara led the way, the artifact glowing faintly in her hand. The whispers of the past grew louder, though the words were indistinct, swirling like a distant chant. Each step echoed, as if the very ground beneath them was alive, pulsing with ancient energy.

Cedric walked closely behind her, his sword drawn and his eyes alert. Morgana, her hands outstretched, was murmuring protective incantations under her breath, her fingers tracing the faint remnants of wards that lined the walls. Elias, silent and tense, scanned their surroundings with his bow ready, every muscle in his body coiled, waiting for the first sign of danger.