The hum of the machinery transitioned from a rhythmic vibration into a violent, teeth rattling roar. Dust from centuries of silence shook off the iron gears, stinging Nala’s eyes. On the display, the "word count" of their remaining time flickered like a dying heartbeat.
18,402... 18,399...
"Leo, we can’t just stand here!" Nala shouted over the mechanical cacophony. She scrambled to her feet, her legs feeling like lead. The malachite bracelet was no longer just glowing; it was casting long, rhythmic arcs of green electricity that danced toward the central pedestal. It was hungry. It was calling to the machine.
Leo didn’t move. He stood as still as a statue, his pulse blade deactivated and hanging loosely in his grip. His eyes were fixed on the hand shaped indentation. "The Keeper is righ
