Eli's resolve hardened like steel forged in fire. She would free Aethon from the Shadow King's grip, no matter the cost. The Shadow King sneered, his presence suffocating, but Eli stood firm.
"Your defiance is admirable, Eli," the Shadow King said, his voice dripping with malice. "But futile. Aethon, obey me."
Aethon's body tensed, his eyes locked on Eli with a desperate plea. Eli's grip on him tightened.
"Fight it, Aethon," she whispered. "Don't let him win."
With Herculean effort, Aethon shook his head. "Won't...hurt...you, Eli."
The Shadow King's laughter boomed, shaking the ground beneath them.
"You dare resist?" he snarled, his dark magic swirling closer.
Eli raised her hands, unleashing a blast of light magic that repelled the Shadow King's assault. Aethon stumbled to his feet, joining Eli against their common foe.
"Together," Eli said, her voice steady.
As one, they launched a barrage of light and darkness, their bond strengthening their magic. The Shadow King stumbled, his control wavering.
Aethon's voice was barely audible. "Eli...the artifact...destroy it."
Eli's gaze locked onto the Shadow King's hand, where the artifact pulsed with dark energy.
With a fierce cry, Eli unleashed a concentrated blast of magic, striking the artifact with precision. It shattered, releasing Aethon from its grasp.
The Shadow King's roar echoed through the land as his darkness recoiled.
Aethon collapsed, free but weakened. Eli caught him, her heart overflowing with relief.
"We did it," she whispered, tears of joy streaming down her face.
But as they stood victorious, a whisper echoed in Eli's mind.
"The true battle has only just begun."