The sanctuary was colder than usual.
Elias stood at the center of the chamber, his breath forming small clouds in the air. The Primordial Light still pulsed with its gentle rhythm, but its warmth seemed diminished, as if something was draining its energy. The message on the wall glowed with an eerie light, its words burning into his mind.
THE FRACTURE IS HEALED. THE CHAOS ENDURES. THE FINAL TEST BEGINS.
He had spent hours staring at those words, trying to decipher their meaning. What final test? What could the chaos possibly want from him now?
You are thinking too much, the shadow said. The answer will come when it is ready.
Elias shook his head. "I can't wait. The guardians are weakening again. The wards are flickering. Something is happening."
Then we must be patient. Rushing will
