**Chapter 2: Shadows of the Past**

The morning sun struggled through the heavy clouds, casting a muted light over the battered city of Nyx. The once-vibrant streets were now a tangled mess of debris and fractured dreams. Emergency crews and soldiers moved through the wreckage, trying to restore order, but the damage was extensive.

Xael Orion stood on the edge of a rooftop, his gaze fixed on the horizon. The Xeox Amulet hung around his neck, its glow subdued but steady. Luna's voice came through his earpiece, breaking the silence.

"Xael, I've been analyzing the energy patterns from the behemoth. It's clear that this attack wasn't an isolated incident. There are similar disturbances across the city, and they all point back to the Void."

Xael frowned, his thoughts racing. "What are we dealing with? What's behind these attacks?"

"I'm still digging into it," Luna replied. "But we need to gather more information. The city's old archives might hold clues. I suggest you start with the Museum of Nyx. It's got a section dedicated to ancient artifacts and could have information on the Void."

Xael nodded. "On my way."

The Museum of Nyx was located in the city's historic district, a stark contrast to the modern chaos that surrounded it. Its grand façade loomed in the distance as Xael approached, flanked by towering columns and intricate carvings that spoke of a bygone era.

Inside, the museum was quiet, its halls echoing with the soft murmur of history. Xael moved purposefully through the exhibits, guided by Luna's directions. He reached the section dedicated to ancient artifacts, where dusty tomes and relics from forgotten eras were displayed.

As he examined the exhibits, a small, leather-bound journal caught his eye. It was labeled "The Chronicles of the Void." Xael carefully pulled it from its display case and flipped through the pages. The journal detailed ancient battles against the Void, mentioning a powerful artifact known as the "Xeox Core," believed to be the source of immense energy.

Xael's heart raced. The Xeox Core was the counterpart to the Xeox Amulet, and it was said to have the power to either seal the Void or unleash its full wrath. If the Void was indeed awakening, the Core could be crucial.

Just as he was about to delve deeper, a sudden noise from behind startled him. He spun around, drawing his energy blade. A figure emerged from the shadows, cloaked in a long, dark trench coat. The stranger's face was obscured by a wide-brimmed hat.

"Who's there?" Xael demanded, his blade crackling with energy.

The figure raised a hand, signaling peace. "Easy there, friend. I'm not here to fight." The voice was smooth and confident. "I see you've found the journal. It's a significant discovery."

Xael's grip tightened on his blade. "And who are you?"

"Name's Kieran," the stranger said, stepping into the light. His eyes glinted with a sharp intelligence. "I'm an archaeologist with a particular interest in the Void. I've been tracking its resurgence for some time."

Xael narrowed his eyes. "Why should I trust you?"

"Because our goals align," Kieran replied. "The Void's return threatens us all. I have information that could help you understand what you're up against. But first, I need to know if you're truly committed to stopping it."

Xael hesitated, then lowered his blade. "What do you have?"

Kieran approached the exhibit on ancient energy sources. "The Xeox Core you seek is indeed real. It was hidden away centuries ago by a secret order, the Guardians of the Light. They feared its power and the potential for misuse."

Xael's curiosity piqued. "Where can I find it?"

Kieran handed Xael a map, marked with cryptic symbols. "This map leads to the hidden sanctum where the Core is believed to be sealed. But be warned, the path is fraught with danger. The Void's influence corrupts everything it touches."

Xael studied the map, feeling the weight of the responsibility on his shoulders. "Thank you, Kieran. I'll investigate this sanctum."

"Be careful," Kieran said, his expression serious. "And remember, the Void is not just an external threat. It has a way of exploiting our deepest fears and weaknesses."

With a nod, Xael left the museum, the map clenched in his hand. The city's skyline seemed more ominous now, the weight of the task ahead pressing down on him. As he headed toward the sanctum, the shadows of his past began to stir, whispering secrets he was not yet ready to confront.