The staircase seemed endless.

Lucien walked at the front, the Blade of Dawn glowing faintly in his hand.

Seraphina followed closely.

Lyra stayed between them, her Crystal Heart illuminating the ancient walls.

Behind them, Aster remained unusually silent.

Lucien finally glanced back.

"Something is wrong."

Aster nodded.

"I can feel it."

"The First Light is here."

"But so is something else."

Before Lucien could ask another question—

A deep vibration traveled through the mountain.

The walls trembled.

Dust fell from the ceiling.

Lyra grabbed Seraphina's hand.

"Is it Nethros?"

Aster looked ahead.

"I don't know."

"That's what frightens me."

---

The staircase finally ended.

They entered an enormous underground temple....