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Matilda approached the altar, her heart pounding in her chest. She could feel the immense power humming beneath the surface, waiting, anticipating its release. The Eldershard crystal seemed to vibrate against her skin, its light growing brighter with each step she took.

She stood before the altar, the cold stone towering above her, and reached for the crystal. The amulet was warm in her hand, almost burning, as if eager to fulfill its purpose.

She lifted it high, holding it above the altar, and with a deep breath, pressed the crystal against the ancient markings carved into the stone.

The reaction was Immediate. The runes on the ground began to glow fiercely, the blue light spreading outward in waves, illuminating the entire clearing.

The earth beneath her feet trembled, and the air became thick with power, crackling with energy. A deep rumble echoed from within the ground, growing louder, more intense, as if something massive was stirring from a long slumber.

Matilda stepped back,