Chapter 54

The figure stepped forward, its presence filling the temple with an unspeakable horror. Raven's sword faltered, her eyes fixed on the face of the darkness.

Lily's hands trembled, her magic threads unraveling. "It's so powerful," she whispered.

Sophia's flames died away, her eyes fixed on the figure in terror. "What is it?" she breathed.

Poppy's voice was a barely audible whisper. "It's the source of the darkness."

The figure's eyes burned brighter, its gaze sweeping over the four friends. "You fools," it hissed. "You think you can defeat me? I am the darkness incarnate."

Raven's sword arm trembled, her blade poised for a final strike. "We'll never give up," she said.