---
The silence in the Ruins of Eternis was deceptive, almost oppressive.
Fowad and Helena and others stood at the edge of the central chamber, its ancient carvings casting long, eerie shadows in the dim light.
The artifact, encased in black metal and radiating faint pulses of energy, rested like a slumbering giant.
"We can't stay here for long," Fowad whispered to Helena,
Okay let's leave. her falcon perched on her shoulder, its sharp eyes scanning the surroundings.
Fowad nodded, his Eyes faintly glowing as it detected faint energy trails leading to the entrance of the ruins. "We're not alone. Someone's coming."
Before Helena could respond, the ground beneath them rumbled faintly. Distant echoes of voices and the heavy thud of beasts approaching filled the air.
"It's them," Fowad said grimly, his hand tightening around the fragment in his pocket.
