As the stone gate fully opened, the group entered a vast chamber deep within the mountains. The heavy air, mixed with the scent of age and ancient magic, filled the space.
Suddenly, the ground trembled, and a strange roar echoed. From the shadows emerged a massive creature of stone and metal—the Guardian Beast. Its eyes burned like red flames, and every movement shook the ground.
Daren stepped forward and shouted,
"Ready? We must fight together!"
The Silent Mage raised her hands and unleashed her restrained magic. Silver light swirled around her, deflecting the creature's initial strikes.
Arin gripped his sword tightly, thinking, "This isn't just a physical fight… we must win with intelligence and cooperation."
The beast struck with heavy blows, forcing the group to dodge swiftly. The fugitive prince covered the flanks while Daren used his strength to redirect the creature's attacks.
After a tense moment, Arin noticed a weak point in the beast's stony armor. Coordinating with the group, they struck it with a final blow, and the Guardian Beast fell.
Breathless and exhilarated, fear and tension gave way to pride and unity. This was the group's first true victory on the Path of Glory, and they realized that cooperation and trust would be the key to overcoming the trials ahead.