The chamber's oppressive darkness intensified as the dark figure revealed themselves, their aura of power crackling with malevolent energy. The Guardians, undeterred by the chilling presence, readied themselves for the imminent confrontation.
Elara's voice cut through the gloom, filled with unyielding determination. "We're ending this now. Your plans will not succeed."
The dark figure's eyes glowed with a sinister light as they raised their hands, summoning swirling tendrils of shadow. "You are brave, but foolish. The ritual is already in motion, and you are too late to stop it."
Morgana, her hands still glowing with magic, continued to work on neutralizing the wards around the dark crystal. "We need to buy her more time!" she called out, focusing her energy on breaking the magical barriers protecting the altar.
Lyra, sword drawn and eyes scanning the chamber, took a defensive stance. "We've faced worse. We can do this."