The guardian wasted no time. It moved with impossible speed, its blade a streak of liquid light as it lashed toward Celeste.
She barely managed to react, raising an Aether-infused barrier in time to block the strike. The impact sent shockwaves through her body.
"That felt werid"
Dain and Arianne scattered, attempting to flank the guardian but it moved as if it knew their every action .
"This thing's fast!" Dain said.
This wasn't just a battle—it was showing how much stronger it is then us
She then steadied herself, letting her Aether flow naturally. Instead of blocking, she redirected, shifting the guardian's strikes just enough to throw off its balance.
Arianne, realizing the strategy, called out. "It's testing you! Not just power—skill!"
Celeste narrowed her eyes.
She moved weaving through the guardian's attacks. Instead of fighting with brute force, she let the energy guide her movements.
Then, at the perfect moment, she struck.
A burst of Aether surged from her palm, hitting the guardian's core directly.
The entity hesitated—then slowly lowered its weapon.
"You have passed," it intoned.
The massive door behind it groaned, shifting open to reveal the depths beyond.
They had won.