----
As Loira retrieved the fragment piece, the labyrinth began to collapse. Pathways crumbled, and the storm intensified, forcing them to race back to the entrance.
"Go, go, go!" Dabi shouted, using his portals to navigate the collapsing maze.
Loira followed closely, her staff lighting the way. Just as the last pathway disintegrated, they leaped through the gate, landing on solid ground.
The Guardian appeared before them, its form less imposing now. "You have proven your worth. Take the fragment and continue your journey, but know this: each trial will demand more of you than the last."
Dabi rolled his eyes. "Yeah, thanks for the pep talk."
Loira placed a hand on his arm, her expression serious. "We're one step closer, but we can't let our guard down."
He nodded, his resolve firm. "Let's keep moving."
Together, they stepped into the void once more, the core's light guiding them toward their next challenge.
