Chapter 10: The Dragon's Wrath

The group emerged from the Realm of Shadows, their spirits tempered by the trials they had faced. Kael felt a newfound clarity, but the weight of the artifact's power still pressed heavily on his mind. Eryndor's guidance had been invaluable, but the cracks in the multiverse were spreading faster than ever, and time was running out.

Their next destination was the **Obsidian Citadel**, a fortress said to house a relic capable of stabilizing the multiverse. However, the citadel was guarded by the **Void Sentinels**, ancient beings who had sworn to protect the relic at all costs.

As they approached the citadel, Drakthar's eyes gleamed with determination. "**The Void Sentinels are formidable, but they are no match for the Eternal Dragon.**"

Kael nodded, though he couldn't shake the feeling of unease. "We need to be careful. We can't afford any mistakes."

The citadel loomed before them, its black spires piercing the sky. The air was thick with tension as the group prepared for battle. The Void Sentinels emerged from the shadows, their forms shifting and twisting like living darkness.

The battle was fierce. The Sentinels moved with unnatural speed, their attacks precise and deadly. Lyra and Aegis fought side by side, their combined efforts holding the Sentinels at bay. Kael channeled the artifact's power, creating barriers of energy to protect his companions.

But it was Drakthar who turned the tide. With a roar that shook the heavens, he unleashed his full power, his golden scales glowing with an otherworldly light. The Sentinels faltered under his assault, their forms dissolving into shadow.

As the last Sentinel fell, the group entered the citadel, their eyes drawn to the relic at its center—a crystalline orb pulsating with energy. Kael reached out to touch it, but before he could, the ground beneath them began to tremble.

Eryndor's voice echoed in their minds. "**The relic is tied to the citadel's defenses. Taking it will trigger its collapse.**"

Kael hesitated, but Drakthar stepped forward. "**I will hold the citadel. Take the relic and go.**"

Kael's heart ached at the thought of leaving Drakthar behind, but he knew there was no other choice. With a heavy heart, he took the relic, and the group fled as the citadel began to collapse.