The last Guardian
ck with the scent of ancient stone and dust, a stark contrast to the blazing desert heat. His heart still pounded from the confrontation with Viktor Dragunov,
s, and battles lost to time. He could almost hear his father's voice, explaining the significance of each carving, the excitement palpable in his tone. This temple
red in ancient symbols that glowed faintly in the dim light. Marcus approached it with a mixture of awe and caution. He traced the carvings
geway that led deeper into the temple. The air grew cooler still as he descended, the silence broken only by the echo of his
creatures, lined the room, creating an imposing yet majestic atmosphere. At the center stood a pedestal, upon which rested an ornat
od, inlaid with gold and precious gems that sparkled faintly in the dim light. He could feel the history emana
s were still clear. Marcus carefully unrolled it, his eyes scanning the intricate details. This was the key to El-Zahra, the legendary oasis his father had d
he vibrations reverberated through the temple. Dust and small stones fell from the ceiling, and Marcus kne
k stood up, and he instinctively reached for his knife. Emerging from the shadows was Viktor Dragunov, f
led with malice. "You really thought yo
or, this isn't just about treasure. This is about hist
eed. "Spare me the lecture, Steele. That
ssessing his surroundings, and spotted an ancient lever protruding from one of the walls.
ok violently as a series of gears and pulleys activated, and a hidden trapdoor opened beneath Viktor's feet.
, the ancient structure struggling against the forces of nature and time. As he emerged into the blinding light of the deser
of his father's life's work. For Marcus Steele, this was more than a quest for treasure-it was a journey to honor his father's legacy and