It was coming close to nightfall as they finally reached the temple. The structure was magnificent, with towering pillars and shimmering stone carved right into the face of the mountain. The temple seemed to glow from within, carrying an otherworldly aura across the surrounding snow.
They entered, very surrounded by the abiding power that filled the air. The temple walls were etched with symbols of light and rebirth. At the center of the room was an altar over which crystalline fragments lay strewn, reflecting the light in dazzling patterns.
Elysia breathed deeply, shutting her eyes. "This is a strong place. It's definitely the right place to set free a bound soul.".
Lily walked toward the altar holding her grandmother's amulet to her chest tightly, focusing attention on the light within. She sensed that Ariston was near- a shadow hovering at the edges of her mind. Closing her eyes, she reached out with her spirit, calling out to him quietly but surely and determinedly.
"Ariston," she whispered. "If you are here, come forward. I'm ready to help you find peace.".
Cold air began to surround her, and a faint shimmering before her took shape in the familiar image of Ariston. His features had cleared now, and his face softened by hope. He looked at Lily with eyes full of thanks and longing.
"Are you sure?" he whispered softly, almost inaudibly. "This is no risk-free feat.".
Lily nodded, her heart steadier than before. "I'm ready," she said. "You shouldn't be wandering alone in the dark.
Taking a breath, she let the light inside her flow through her hands and into the amulet. The stone brightened up, illuminating the temple with warm, golden light increasing with each second. As light fully covered Ariston, his form started to flicker between shadow and faint, translucent glow.
He turned to her once more, a look of peace finally spreading across his face. "Thank you, Lily, but you have given me more than just freedom-you've given me hope."
With one final soft exhalation, he simply faded into light; the warm glow that had filled the temple consumed his form. The shadows receded, leaving only the gentle light of the altar and the warmth of his final presence in the air.