Eli's connection to Niamh deepened, unsettling her.
"Arianna, why do I feel linked to Niamh?" Eli asked.
Arianna's eyes clouded. "You both share a piece of the Heartstone's essence."
Aethon's brow furrowed. "What does that mean?"
Arianna's voice whispered. "Niamh's darkness resonates with Eli's light."
Kael's gaze locked onto Eli's. "We won't let Niamh exploit this bond."
Niamh's laughter echoed. "You're already bound, Eli. Blood and darkness tie us together."
Eli's heart pounded. "I won't let you control me."
Niamh's smile twisted. "You'll soon see the truth."
As Niamh revealed her plan, Eli's world crumbled.
"Kalen's darkness was never defeated," Niamh said. "It merely hid, waiting for the right host."
Aethon's sword flashed. "You'll never possess Eli."
Niamh's eyes gleamed. "Eli's already tainted. The darkness grows within her."
Kael's face paled. "No, Eli. Fight it."
Eli's inner struggle intensified. Darkness and light warred within.
Arianna's voice whispered. "Eli, remember your love. Your bond with Aethon and Kael."
Eli's heart swelled. "I won't let darkness win."
With newfound resolve, Eli confronted Niamh.
"I'll stop you, Niamh. For the realms and those I love."
Niamh's smile faltered. "You'll soon understand the true meaning of darkness."