The air inside the shrine grew colder with every step Kael took. The glowing lines on the altar spread slowly across the black walls like veins of fire. Shadows danced wildly as if alive.
Selene's eyes stayed fixed on Kael. "Be careful. Whatever this is, it is powerful."
Kael reached out and lifted the mask from the altar. It felt heavy and strangely warm despite its dark surface. The moment he held it, a sudden rush of images flooded his mind—visions of ancient battles, forgotten gods, and a curse that stretched through centuries.
He gasped and staggered back. "This mask… it holds memories. Maybe even the soul of the god beneath the ruin."
Selene moved closer. "Then we must find a way to use it. To end the curse."
A deep rumble echoed through the shrine. The ground beneath them trembled, and dust fell from the ceiling.
Kael clenched the mask tighter. "There is no turning back now."
The shrine's shadows gathered into a shape—a tall figure with glowing eyes, emerging from the darkness. It spoke without moving its lips.
"Bearer of the Thorn, the time has come to choose your path."
Kael swallowed hard, ready to face whatever fate awaited.