Eli and Aethon stood before Niamh's fortress, the Heart of Darkness.
Niamh's voice dripped with malice. "You'll never leave this place."
Aethon drew his sword. "We'll claim the Amulet of Wisdom."
Eli's determination flared. "And shatter Xaren's hold on you."
Niamh's eyes flashed. "You'll never break the Shadow King's grasp."
Within the fortress, twisted illusions assaulted their minds.
Arianna's magic wove a protective barrier.
Eli's wisdom guided them through the labyrinth.
Aethon's sword sliced through shadows.
Finally, they reached the Amulet's chamber.
Niamh awaited, her eyes blazing.
"You'll never have it," she spat.
Aethon charged.
Eli joined the battle.
Their swords clashed.
Niamh's powers raged.
In the chaos, Eli grasped the Amulet.
Its wisdom flooded her mind.
Xaren's secrets unraveled.
The Shadow King's weakness revealed.
Eli's gaze locked onto Niamh.
"Break free, Niamh," Eli urged.
Niamh's expression faltered.
For an instant, her true self shone.
Then, Xaren's control reasserted.
Niamh's eyes darkened.
"Kill them," she commanded.