Chapter 49

..."Agreed," the Guardian said, its voice firm. "But be warned, the artifact's destruction will come at a great cost. Are you prepared to pay the price?"

Poppy, Lily, and Sophia exchanged resolute glances. They knew what they had to do.

"We're ready," Poppy said, her voice steady.

The Guardian nodded. "Then let us begin."

With the Guardian's guidance, they embarked on a perilous journey to the artifact's core, navigating treacherous paths and overcoming formidable challenges.

As they reached the core, they found themselves face to face with the artifact's dark heart - a swirling vortex of malevolent energy.

Raven stepped forward, its eyes blazing with determination. "I'll do it," it said, its voice firm. "I'll destroy the artifact."

But as Raven approached the vortex, a figure emerged from the shadows - Astrid, her eyes black as coal, her voice a mere whisper.

"You can't destroy it," she whispered. "It's a part of me now."