Chapter 9

• The victory was short-lived. The Forge trembled as a wave of dark energy rippled through the chamber. The Shadow Lord stepped forward, his form more defined now—a towering figure cloaked in darkness, his red eyes burning with fury.
• "You meddling mortals think you've won?" he snarled. "The Nexus may be repaired, but its power is far from safe. And now, you've handed me the key."
• Kael struggled to his feet, his light shield flickering weakly. "We won't let you take it."