Zeno's vortex sucked everything in—Kaden, Lara, Arin. They fought to stay grounded as debris swirled around them. The Heart of Elysium pulsed in Kaden's hand, countering the chaos.
"You'll never stop me!" Zeno shouted, shadow-touched blade slicing air.
Lara dodged, striking back. "You're not Zeno anymore!"
The corrupted guardian laughed. "I'm his true self."
Arin swooped in, wings glowing. "We need to separate him from the shadow."
Kaden focused the Heart's energy—a beam of light pinned Zeno to the wall. The shadow detached, swirling into a dark orb.
Zeno stumbled, eyes clearing. "What...what did I do?"
Lara caught him. "It's okay. We'll help."
The shadow orb pulsed, seeking a host. Kaden stepped forward. "I'll take it."
Eira appeared. "Kaden, no! You can't—"
Kaden grabbed the orb. Darkness flooded him—he saw Zeno's pain, Nyx's motives, the shadows' fear.
The darkness aligned with the Heart's light. Kaden's eyes glowed dual—light and shadow.
"I see now," he whispered.
Elysium shifted. Shadows danced with light. Balance deepened.
Zeno bowed. "I owe you."
Kaden smiled. "We balance the scales."
Suddenly, Eira's expression turned grave. "The prophecy...it's not over."
What happens next? 😊