Anabella and Thiên Phong decided to continue their investigation despite the warning. They went to a famous antique shop in the city, rumored to have ancient artifacts.
Inside the shop, they met an elderly shopkeeper who seemed knowledgeable about antiques. "We're looking for a special artifact related to ancient rituals,"
Thiên Phong said.
The shopkeeper looked at them with suspicion. "Ancient rituals? That's a very sensitive area. I might be able to help, but you should know that this search could put you in danger."
Anabella felt the tension in the air.
"We're not afraid of danger. Just help us find the artifact we need."
The shopkeeper nodded and led them to a section at the back of the shop, where many ancient items were stored.
"There are some items that might be related to ancient rituals. Take a look and let me know if you find anything."
As they examined the artifacts, Anabella found a small box with symbols similar to those on the wall and in the ancient book.
"This might be the artifact we're looking for,"
she said to Thiên Phong.
"We need to examine it carefully,"
Thiên Phong said.
"It could be the key to breaking the curse."
As they left the shop, they felt a sense of being watched. Suddenly, a group of strangers appeared from the shadows and blocked their path.
"You are not allowed to continue,"
one of them said sternly.
"Turn back and leave immediately."
Anabella and Thiên Phong faced the threat, unaware that what they were about to uncover would change everything forever.