GUARDIAN OF THE FIFTH REALM

CHAPTER 14

The next chamber was a sprawling cavern that pulsed with an unnatural red light. Massive, jagged crystals jutted from the floor and walls, their surfaces slick with an oily sheen. The oppressive heat radiating from the glowing chasm at the center made the air shimmer and distorted their vision. Somewhere in the depths of this treacherous place lay the ancient forge, their only hope of severing the shard’s connection to the Phantom King.

Jace tightened his grip on his sword, his knuckles white. "This place feels… wrong."

Aila, mask firmly back in place, nodded grimly. Her staff glowed faintly in her hand, it's light struggling against the oppressive shadows. "It’s not just the shard. This entire temple is tied to the Phantom King’s essence. The closer we get to the forge, the more his power will manifest."

Jace glanced around warily, his senses on high alert. "Let’s just hope we’re ready for whatever he throws at us next."

They moved cautiously, navigating the treacherous terrain. The