Chapter 183: Trials?

The guardian's form flickered, and for a moment, its eyes dimmed, as if considering our words. The murals on the temple walls seemed to resonate with our plea, reinforcing the idea that redemption was possible.

With one final surge of dark energy, the guardian released a deafening roar that echoed through the temple. But instead of attacking us, it dissipated into a whirlwind of spectral mist, fading into the ancient city's walls.

The air grew still, and the haunting presence lifted. We had succeeded in pacifying the guardian, convincing it to relinquish its eternal vigilance over the city's secrets.

Wan Quan smiled, a mix of relief and triumph in his eyes. "Now that the guardian has been quelled, perhaps we can find a way out of this place."

As we stepped out of the temple, we noticed a subtle shift in the city. The malevolent spirits that had pursued us had disappeared, and an aura of tranquility settled over the ruins.