They finally arrived at the Temple of Light, majesty beautifully lit up from where rays pierced into the darkness. The temple stood atop a hill surrounded by ancient trees that whispered secrets to the wind.
Sarah could feel the Heartstone beating with energy as they approached, alive and attuned to the place of the temple. But once they stepped inside, an eerie silence blanketed them. Complex carvings adorned the walls: of battles between light and darkness and tales of the courage and sacrifice of heroes.
"This feels. like it's alive," Liora said her wings shimmering in the dim light.
Stay close," Kaelin warned, his eyes scanning the cavernous room. "We have to be careful. The darkness won't let us reach the Heartstone."
As they ventured deeper into the temple, the earth shuddered and the air was charged with electricity. "What was that?" Sarah breathed, her voice shaking.
In this manner, a deep and resonating voice echoed in the chamber. "Only those of pure heart may hold the power of Heartstone. Proceeding, you must face the trials of the temple."
"What are these trials?" Elara said with her eyes widely placed in determination.
"They will test your bravery, wisdom, and unity," replied the voice. "You must prove that you are worthy enough to harness the light."
The earth shifted, and three paths stood before them, all masked behind mist. "You must choose the path wisely," the voice continued. "For only if you can face these trials together might you hope to succeed."
"We can't split up," Sarah declared firmly. "We have to stick together, support one another in every way we can. That's the only way we're going through this.".
Together, they nodded and advanced, taking the middle path, which slanted somewhat to one side in the dim light. As soon as they set foot inside, a mist enveloped them, swirling around in uncertainty.