Chapter 6 : The Guardian's Sacrifice

As Hina and her allies regrouped, the guardian stood tall, its eyes blazing with determination. "I will show you my power," it said, "and then I will transfer it to you, Hina."

With a wave of its hand, the guardian summoned a swirling vortex of energy. The air around them distorted, and a massive entity materialized - a being of pure energy, bound to the guardian's will.

"This is my familiar, Zorvath," the guardian said. "With its power, I can manipulate reality itself."

Aria's eyes widened in awe. "You're...you're incredible!"

The guardian's gaze locked onto Aria. "And you, Aria, are my kin. You share my bloodline, and my powers will soon be yours to wield."

Hina's mind reeled. "What do you mean?"

The guardian's expression turned somber. "I am the last of the Eldrid, an ancient line of guardians. Aria, you are the key to our lineage's survival."

Before Hina could process this revelation, a blast of energy struck the guardian, sending it stumbling back. Irfan emerged from the shadows, his eyes blazing with the artifact's power.

"You fools," Irfan spat. "You think you can stop me? I will crush you all!"

The guardian stood tall, despite its wounds. "Hina, take my hand. I will transfer my powers to you."

As Hina reached out, the guardian grasped her hand, and a surge of energy coursed through her veins. She felt Zorvath's power, the familiar's energy merging with her own.

"No!" Irfan screamed, but it was too late.

With a final burst of strength, the guardian transferred its powers to Hina, then turned to face Irfan.

"You will not have this power," the guardian said, its voice barely above a whisper.

Irfan's blast of energy struck the guardian, and it dissipated into nothingness. Hina felt a pang of grief, but also a sense of determination.

She would use her newfound powers to stop Irfan, no matter the cost.

Aria's eyes locked onto Hina, a mix of emotions on her face. "You now hold the power of the Eldrid," Aria said. "Use it well, Hina."

Hina nodded, her grip on Zorvath's energy tightening. "I will stop Irfan, and I will save the universe."