The hooded figure reeled back, its grip loosening on the spear. Seizing the opportunity, Lyle pressed forward, his daggers a blur of motion as he unleashed a flurry of attacks. Each strike seemed to chip away at the dark energy that held the figure together, but it remained resilient, its malevolent presence undiminished.
Ruby joined the assault, her sword flashing with a brilliant light as she channeled her mana into powerful strikes. Together, they forced the figure to retreat, giving Nicholas and the others a chance to regroup.
Nicholas, his expression resolute, gestured for Iodel and Drakor to follow him. "We need to focus our efforts on the crystal. It's the source of this abomination's power."
The three of them advanced on the altar, their weapons raised. The hooded figure, sensing their intent, let out a piercing wail that reverberated through the chamber. Shadows coalesced around it, forming a barrier of dark energy that crackled with ominous power.
