Chapter 87: Labyrinth's Guardian

As we fought our way through the onslaught of dark magic, the hooded figure's voice cut through the chaos. "Keep pushing forward! We must reach the artifact!"

Sophia and Alex nodded in agreement, their determination unwavering despite the odds stacked against us. With renewed resolve, we pressed on, our eyes fixed on the shimmering orb at the center of the chamber.

But just as we were within reach of the artifact, the Guardian unleashed a devastating wave of energy, sending us sprawling to the ground. I gritted my teeth against the pain, my muscles burning with exertion as I struggled to regain my footing.

"We can't give up now," Alex shouted over the din of battle. "We're so close!"

Summoning every ounce of strength within me, I pushed myself to my feet, my heart pounding with adrenaline. With a defiant roar, I charged forward, narrowly avoiding another blast of dark magic as I lunged for the artifact.

But even as my fingers brushed against its surface, a sudden surge of power swept