As Elionna and Azrael ventured deeper into the temple, the walls seemed to pulse with an ancient, almost sentient power. The stone was etched with symbols that glowed faintly, casting an eerie light on their path. Elionna could feel the Starblade's energy thrumming in her hand, as though it was guiding her, drawing her closer to something important.
"The temple is alive with magic," Azrael muttered, his voice low. "It reacts to your presence, Elionna. This place was designed to test the Starborn, to ensure only the worthy reach the Starblade's resting place."
Elionna's heart raced. Every step felt like a test, and she couldn't shake the feeling that something was watching her—waiting. Finally, they reached a grand chamber at the heart of the temple. At its center stood an altar, and atop it rested the Starblade's true form, a magnificent sword surrounded by a circle of starlight.
The air seemed to crackle with energy as Elionna stepped forward. She reached out, her fingers brushing the blade's hilt. As soon as she made contact, the ground beneath her feet trembled violently, and the chamber was flooded with a bright, blinding light.
A deep, ethereal voice boomed through the chamber, reverberating off the stone walls. "You have arrived, Starborn. But you are not alone. Darkness follows you. Are you prepared to face it?"
Elionna took a deep breath, gripping the blade. "I am ready."
Azrael stood beside her, his eyes filled with an unwavering confidence. "Together, we will defeat the darkness. This is your moment, Elionna. You were chosen for a reason."
The voice in the chamber seemed to resonate with her response. "Very well, Elionna of the Starborn. Prove your worth."
Suddenly, the room grew dark, and a shadowy figure materialized before them. The Dark Star had arrived.