Kael's eyes seemed to hold a thousand secrets as he gazed at Lirien.
"The Shadowguard was formed to counter the growing darkness," Kael began. "We're a group of skilled warriors, trained to hunt and eliminate shadowy threats."
Lirien's curiosity was piqued.
"How did you join the Shadowguard?" she asked.
Kael's expression turned somber.
"I lost my family to Ryker's darkness. My sister was consumed by the shadows, becoming one of his minions. I vowed to stop him, to protect others from suffering the same fate."
Arin nodded in understanding.
"We share a common enemy, Kael. Together, we can bring Ryker down."
Lyra's eyes narrowed.
"But first, we need to defeat that entity."
The dark entity loomed before them, its presence growing stronger.
"Let's finish this," Lirien said, determination burning within her.
With Kael's expertise and the Shadowguard's tactics, they launched a coordinated attack.
Chapter 18: Fracturing the Entity
The battle raged on, with Kael's knowledge of the shadows proving invaluable.
"Target its core!" Kael shouted. "That's its weakness!"
Lirien focused the Amulet's energy, striking the entity's core.
Eira's presence stirred once more, her voice echoing in Lirien's mind.
"Break...the...bond..."
Lirien sensed Eira's resolve.
"Together, we can do this, Eira," Lirien whispered.
With renewed determination, Lirien, Arin, Lyra, and Kael pushed forward.
The entity's power wavered, its hold on Eira faltering.
King Ryker's face twisted in rage.
"No! You'll never save her!"
The outcome hung in the balance.