Shattered Reflections

Weeks of preparation had led Leegna and Aternos to this pivotal moment. The journey into the realm of the Twelve Guardians had begun, with Aternos guiding Leegna through the first floor, the Mirrors of Reflection. The vast expanse was lined with ancient mirrors, each reflecting not only their physical forms but also the essence of their presence.

-Leegna's right eye, activated by his pact with Yuj, cast a deep blue hue as he scanned the surroundings. He noticed something unsettling: Aternos cast no reflection in the mirrors. This oddity sent a shiver down his spine, but he maintained a calm exterior, concealing his unease.

"Are there any special precautions we need to take here?" Leegna asked, his voice betraying no hint of his suspicion.

Aternos smiled, though the smile seemed slightly strained. "The mirrors will reveal the true nature of those who approach. But for us, there's nothing to worry about."

They advanced through the mirrors, their path illuminated by the soft glow of the reflective surfaces. Despite the eerie stillness of the mirrors, their journey through the first floor was uneventful. As they reached the end of the Mirrors of Reflection, Aternos led the way to the next stage of their journey.

-Stepping through the threshold, they entered the second floor, the Hall of Living Nightmares. The atmosphere here was markedly different—oppressive and dark, with shadowy figures twisting and writhing in the dim light. The air was thick with a sense of foreboding.

Leegna's senses were on high alert. The power of his right eye allowed him to perceive the lurking shadows and entities, but the hall appeared empty. There were no visible threats, no sign of the nightmarish creatures he had expected. He exchanged a concerned glance with Aternos.

"This isn't right," Leegna murmured. "Where are the Living Nightmares?"

Aternos's brow furrowed slightly. "I'm not sure. They should be here. Something doesn't add up."

-Unbeknownst to them, Yuj was trailing them invisibly, his presence cloaked from view. He watched with a mix of satisfaction and intrigue as they entered the empty hall. Yuj's intentions were clear—he was orchestrating events from the shadows, his plan unfolding as he observed Leegna's every move.

Realizing that the second floor was not what they had anticipated, Aternos turned to Leegna. "We need to proceed to the third floor. The Domain of the Twelve. The Guardians will be prepared for us there."

Leegna nodded, his mind racing with questions. As they moved toward the third floor, the tension grew. The Domain of the Twelve was a place of immense power and secrecy. The Time Guardians would be waiting, and Leegna knew the real confrontation was about to begin.

The transition to the third floor was marked by a shift in atmosphere. The oppressive darkness of the Hall of Living Nightmares gave way to a more controlled, yet equally formidable environment. The Domain of the Twelve was a vast chamber filled with ancient symbols and intricate designs, where the Guardians' presence was palpable.

Leegna and Aternos entered the chamber, their steps echoing in the vast space. The Time Guardians were indeed prepared, their figures casting long shadows on the walls. The air crackled with anticipation as the Guardians readied themselves for the impending confrontation.

Leegna took a deep breath, steeling himself for what was to come. The time for answers and action had arrived, and he was determined to face whatever lay ahead with unwavering resolve.