The air grew colder as they descended beneath the ruins, into the forgotten catacombs that once served as the city's foundation. Flickering torchlight barely pierced the thick darkness, casting long, wavering shadows on ancient stone walls etched with cryptic symbols.
Elara's footsteps echoed softly, her breath visible in the chill. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the faint drip of water somewhere deep below.
Sira paused, tracing a symbol carved into the wall. "These runes speak of the Heart's guardian—a being bound to protect the source from those unworthy."
Rin frowned. "Then we'll have to face it."
As they moved deeper, a sudden tremor shook the ground beneath them. Dust fell from the ceiling, and distant rumbling echoed through the tunnels.
Ahead, a massive chamber opened up, illuminated by an ethereal glow emanating from the center. There, suspended above a stone pedestal, pulsed the Heart of Elsewhere—a crystalline core radiating warmth and light amid the cold shadows.
But before they could approach, a figure stepped forth from the darkness—a towering guardian forged from stone and flame, eyes blazing with ancient fury.
"You who seek the Heart," it intoned, voice like thunder, "prove your worth, or be consumed by the ashes."
Elara tightened her grip on her staff, determination blazing in her eyes. "We will protect the future, no matter the cost."
The chamber trembled as the battle for the Heart began—one that would decide the fate of Elsewhere itself.