The clash between Elara and Varek shook the forest to its core, each strike sending waves of power through the air. The ground beneath them cracked and trembled as light and shadow collided in a furious dance. The rest of the Guardians fought desperately to keep Varek's dark forces from overwhelming them, but the pressure was mounting with every second.
Morgana, her voice hoarse from casting spells, struggled to maintain the protective barrier around the relic. Sweat dripped down her forehead as she poured the last of her energy into keeping the relic out of Varek's reach. The whispers from the artifact grew louder, more insistent, clawing at her mind with visions of despair.
"Hold on!" Seraphina yelled from above, her wings flashing with radiant light as she unleashed a flurry of celestial arrows at Varek's minions. She was exhausted, but determination burned in her eyes. The Guardians could not afford to falter now.
