The Throne Beyond Infinity 1: The Trial Awakening

Chapter 16: The Guardian Awakens

The chamber trembled violently.

The Void Eclipse Gem Fragment floated higher above the altar, surrounded by a storm of violet energy.

Everyone stopped fighting.

"What is happening?" Ryker asked.

Before anyone could answer, the temple floor cracked apart.

RUMBLE!

Ancient blue symbols lit up across the walls.

A deep voice echoed through the temple.

«"Only the worthy may claim the Fragment."»

The ground beneath the altar burst open.

A gigantic stone hand emerged from the darkness.

Then another.

Slowly, a colossal warrior rose from beneath the temple floor.

Its body was carved from ancient stone, with glowing blue eyes and a sword as tall as a building.

Darius stared in amazement.

"That thing is huge..."

Kael immediately recognized it.

"The Guardian..."

Varok took a step back.

"So the legends were true."

Without warning, the Guardian swung its enormous sword.

BOOM!

The attack shook the entire temple.

Both the heirs and the commanders barely escaped.

"It's attacking everyone!" Elias shouted.

The Guardian raised its sword again.

Ryker ignited his crimson flames.

"If we don't stop it, this place will collapse!"

Varok lowered his spear and looked at the heroes.

"We'll settle this another time."

Lyra frowned.

"We're retreating?"

"The Fragment isn't going anywhere," Varok replied.

"But if we stay..."

"We'll all die."

Dark portals opened behind the three commanders.

Before stepping through, Varok looked at Kael.

"Protect it if you can..."

"We'll be back."

The commanders disappeared into the shadows.

Silence filled the temple for only a moment.

Then the Guardian turned its glowing eyes toward the five heirs.

Kael stepped forward, entering his Emerald Guardian form.

"We're the only ones left."

Ryker smiled and ignited his flames.

"Then let's show this Guardian what the heirs of the Primordial Gods can do."

The Guardian let out a thunderous roar as it charged toward them.

The battle for the First Fragment had entered its final stage.

To Be Continued...