The group pressed on, their steps lighter now that the beast was gone. The path led them to a towering spire of obsidian, its surface etched with glowing runes. At the top, a faint light pulsed—the fifth anchor.
Anna stepped forward, her voice filled with determination. “This is it. Once we return this anchor, we’ll be one step closer to ending this nightmare.”
As they ascended the spire, the air grew colder, and the shadows seemed to watch them. But no creatures emerged to stop them. It was as if the underworld itself was holding its breath.
At the summit, they found the fifth guardian—a shimmering figure cloaked in light. It extended its hand, and Anna placed the anchor into its palm. The light from the anchor spread across the spire, illuminating the darkness around them.
“You have done well,” the guardian said, its voice echoing like a song. “The final test awaits. Return to the central temple and restore the anchors. Only then will you find the way home.”
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A New Threat
