Chapter 82: The Shattered Hold

As they gathered around the fire, the ancient book open before them, Isabella felt a glimmer of hope. They had faced darkness and emerged stronger. And with the power of the relic and the unity of their village, they would be ready for the final battle that lay ahead.

Adrian looked up from the book, his brow furrowed. "This passage here...it says something about a bloodline. That the true power of the relic can only be unlocked by someone of the ancient bloodline."

Isabella's heart skipped a beat. "What bloodline? Did the text say more?"

Adrian shook his head. "No, it's vague. But if it's true, we need to figure out who among us carries that blood."

Aeliana, who had been silent until now, stepped forward. "There's a legend in our village," she began, her voice trembling. "It speaks of a lost heir, someone descended from the original protectors of the relic. If that heir can be found, they could be the key."

Isabella's eyes widened. "A lost heir? Why haven't we heard this bef