Volume 11: The Shattered Gate
The battlefield was scarred beyond recognition. Rivers of shadow and fire twisted across the plains, but the armies of humans and demons had finally formed a fragile circle, united against the Void Sovereign.
Azeryn stood beside Elias, her dark wings unfurled, eyes blazing with determination. "This ends now," she whispered. "We either seal it… or lose everything."
Elias tightened his grip on her hand. "We'll do it together." His twin marks pulsed violently, responding to the energy of both realms converging.
The Void Sovereign let out a bone-chilling roar, its shadow tendrils lashing outward. The energy tore through soldiers, debris, and even the battlefield itself. But Elias stepped forward, aura blazing, creating a protective dome that held back the worst of the assault.
Azeryn's voice rang out like a battle cry. "All of you—stand firm! Fight the shadows, not each other!"
Rydell and General Varak coordinated their troops, human and demon alike. Spells, arrows, and enchanted weapons struck the Sovereign from every angle, forcing it to stagger.
Elias focused, feeling the Crown of Realms awakening within him. Light burst from his marks, forming a massive circular structure—half obsidian, half crystal. The Gate of Shattered Eternity rose from the ground, responding to the combined will of Elias and Azeryn.
Azeryn placed her hands over his, channeling her power into the gate. "If we fail… one of us may not return," she murmured.
"I won't let that happen," Elias replied, meeting her gaze. "We survive together."
Together, they directed their energy toward the center of the Sovereign. The creature screamed, its form twisting violently as it was pulled toward the glowing gate.
Rivers of shadow struck them, attempting to tear their bond apart. Elias gritted his teeth, pouring every ounce of his soul into the Crown. Azeryn matched him, their joined power shining like twin suns.
With a final surge, the gate swallowed the Void Sovereign whole. A shockwave erupted across the battlefield, scattering debris and knocking soldiers off their feet.
When the light faded, silence fell. Elias and Azeryn staggered, breathless, but alive.
Azeryn's hand found his, eyes wide. "We… did it."
Elias smiled, exhausted but proud. "Together."
And for the first time in centuries, the battlefield felt still, and both realms glimpsed hope.