ninety six

As I stepped through the portal, I felt a thrill of excitement mixed with a hint of fear. What lay ahead? And what secrets would I uncover?

The Guardian led us through a winding path of stars and galaxies, each one more breathtaking than the last. We passed by nebulas and black holes, their power and beauty awe-inspiring.

Finally, we arrived at a great crystal palace, shining like a beacon in the darkness. The Guardian opened the doors, and we stepped inside.

The palace was filled with strange and wondrous objects, each one pulsing with an otherworldly energy. I saw crystals and orbs, ancient artifacts and mysterious devices.

The Guardian led us to a great throne room, where a figure sat waiting. It was the Architect, its eyes gleaming with an otherworldly intensity.

"Welcome, Ruth," it said. "I have been waiting for you."

I felt a surge of determination. I was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

"What do you want from me?" I asked, my voice firm.

The Architect smiled. "I wan