The guardian became still and silent after delivering its instructions, just as it had during the first trial. With an absence of emotion, the creature's eyes, aglow with light, appeared to fixate on Erik and Valcroy without truly recognizing their existence. Valcroy felt a surge of anger rise within him. He glared at the guardian, his fists clenched. It was the same as before—no further explanation, no details about what awaited them. Just vague, minimal guidance. Last time, they had nearly died, and now it seemed like the same thing might happen.
"What are we even supposed to endure?" Valcroy grumbled under his breath, still seething. "And what else might show up this time?"
But before he could let his frustration boil over, Erik made such he wouldn't blow up. Erik, ever the steady force, gave a subtle shake of his head. It was enough to make Valcroy breathe in and pull back his temper, stepping to the side as he reigned in his desire to tear the guardian apart.
