The Obsidian Throne loomed in orbit above the jungle world, its vast silhouette casting an ominous shadow over the planet. Inside, the Shade Emperor stood motionless on the bridge, his gaze fixed on the holographic display of the temple below. The golden light emanating from the ancient structure was visible even from orbit, a beacon of resistance against his encroaching darkness.
"They think they've found salvation," the Emperor murmured, his voice cold and resonant. "But they've only delayed the inevitable."
Commander Varyn stood at his side, her posture rigid as she awaited his command. "The ground forces report heavy resistance," she said. "The Starborn's allies are holding their position, and the temple itself has activated defensive measures."
The Emperor's glowing eyes narrowed. "The Nexus stirs. It senses the unworthy trying to claim its power." He turned to Varyn, his voice sharp. "Prepare my descent. I will end this myself."
On the planet's surface, the Imperial forces pressed their assault despite the temple's defenses. The jungle was a cacophony of blaster fire and explosions, the air thick with smoke and the acrid scent of scorched vegetation.
Tharn and Kade held their ground near the temple's entrance, their backs against a crumbling stone wall.
"We're running out of time," Kade said, firing another volley at the advancing troops. "I don't know how much longer we can hold them off."
Tharn reloaded his rifle, his expression grim. "We don't need to hold them off forever. Just long enough for Liora to do whatever she's doing in there."
"Great," Kade muttered. "Let's hope she's quicker than these guys are stubborn."
The sky darkened suddenly, an unnatural chill spreading across the battlefield. The sounds of battle faltered as soldiers on both sides looked up. From the Obsidian Throne above, a single dark figure descended, wreathed in shadow.
The Emperor's arrival was silent but overwhelming. He touched down lightly in the clearing, his dark cloak billowing around him. The air grew heavier, and even the jungle seemed to recoil from his presence.
Tharn tensed, his grip tightening on his rifle. "He's here."
Kade swallowed hard, his usual bravado absent. "That's… not good."
The Emperor surveyed the battlefield, his glowing eyes taking in the chaos. His voice carried effortlessly across the clearing, calm and commanding.
"Cease your struggle," he said. "The Nexus belongs to me. Surrender now, and I may spare you."
Tharn stepped forward, his rifle aimed squarely at the Emperor. "We're not surrendering. Not to you."
The Emperor tilted his head, his expression unreadable. "Bravery. Or foolishness. It makes no difference."
With a flick of his wrist, he unleashed a wave of shadow that slammed into the temple's protective barrier. The golden light wavered but held, the spires flaring brighter in defiance.
Inside the temple, Liora felt the impact as if it were a physical blow. The Sigil on her hand flared in response, its light syncing with the Nexus Key. The chamber around her pulsed with energy, the walls alive with ancient glyphs.
"He's here," she whispered, her voice trembling.
The elder's voice echoed softly. "The darkness seeks to claim what it does not understand. But the light endures. Stand firm, Starborn heir."
Liora closed her eyes, drawing strength from the Sigil. She could feel the Nexus, its energy vast and infinite, flowing through her.
"I won't let him take it," she said, her resolve hardening. "I'll protect the Nexus."