Chapter 39: The Guardian’s Trial

The monstrous guardian charged with unnatural speed, its multiple claws slicing the stale air. Yang dodged with heart pounding, narrowly escaping the deadly blows that could crush bone and stone alike. The creature's guttural roars echoed like grinding rock, filling the chamber with unbearable dread.

Lu Anqi moved with calm precision, chanting softly in a tongue that seemed older than the tomb itself. She hurled a vial filled with mercury dust, the shimmering powder swirling like smoke before engulfing the beast. It screeched, staggering as the dust disrupted its unnatural essence.

Yang seized the moment, slashing at exposed joints with his blade. Sparks flew where metal met ancient steel, the blade glowing faintly with each strike. His vision blurred as waves of memories crashed through his mind—faces of past vessels, dark ceremonies, and whispered names.

The guardian recoiled but wasn't defeated. It lunged again, faster and more desperate. Yang braced himself for the final blow, muscles screaming in protest.

Anqi's chanting grew louder, the chamber vibrating with power. The guardian's claws faltered, slowed by the ancient words binding it in place.

With a roar, Yang plunged his blade deep into the creature's chest, and with a burst of light, the guardian dissolved into shadow and dust.