Chapter 1474: The Vanguard of Hope

The roar of the True Shadow reverberated through the battlefield, silencing even the clash of weapons and cries of battle. The massive figure loomed over the defenders, its presence like a black hole, drawing light and hope into its void. Its form was constantly shifting—jagged edges giving way to smooth, undulating tendrils—its red eyes locked on Elara with an unsettling intelligence.

Elara's grip on the Codex tightened, the warmth of the book fighting back the chill that emanated from the True Shadow. She stepped forward, the dagger in her other hand feeling heavier than ever, as though it understood the enormity of the task ahead.

The True Shadow spoke, its voice a low, guttural growl that seemed to bypass the ears and speak directly into the soul.

*"You bring light to a world that was meant for shadow. Do you not see the futility in your struggle?"*