The commander's mirrored constructs thrashed violently, dark energy spiralling through the chamber like living serpents. Mukul's golden aura flared, but he knew sheer strength wasn't enough—this was a battle of strategy and adaptation.
"They're too fast," Meera said, striking a construct that split into two. "Every attack we make, it multiplies!"
Kavya twirled her dagger, her grin unfazed. "Multiplying or not, I love a challenge. Let's find a weak point."
Anaya's eyes were sharp, calculating. "The constructs mirror our energy, but they are linked to the commander. If we can disrupt the connection, the barrier will fall."
Saira nodded calmly. "Observe the patterns. Their movements are precise, but predictable. Focus on flow, not force."
Liyana leaned casually, spinning her lockpick. "And style always helps. Even breaking barriers looks better with flair."
Mukul's mind raced. He realized that to shatter the shadow barrier, they needed to synchronize their attacks perfectly—not just in timing, but in energy alignment.
"Everyone, synchronize with me," Mukul commanded. Golden threads of energy connected the team, amplifying strength, timing, and focus. "We're not striking individually. We are one strike, one flow, one outcome."
The women nodded, positioning themselves strategically around Mukul. Meera advanced, weaving energy with precision; Anaya dismantled stabilizers feeding the mirrored nodes; Kavya moved unpredictably, drawing the commander's attention; Saira redirected destructive pulses, shielding the group; Liyana neutralized traps instantly.
Mukul focused, channelling golden energy through every artifact. He visualized the constructs as extensions of the commander's will. The synchronized strike wasn't just about power—it was about harmony.
"Now!" Mukul shouted.
Golden energy surged through the chamber in perfect unison. Every strike, every redirection, every neutralization converged on the nexus of the commander's mirrored network. Shadows recoiled violently, tendrils collapsing, nodes destabilizing, constructs shattering.
The commander roared, dark energy spiralling chaotically. "No… impossible! How can… you coordinate so perfectly?"
Mukul stepped forward, aura blazing. "Our strength isn't just energy—it's trust, courage, and unity. That is what you underestimated."
Meera surged, striking a collapsing node. Anaya dismantled the last stabilizer feeding the mirrored constructs. Kavya's agile assault disoriented the commander. Saira redirected destructive energy away from allies and civilians. Liyana neutralized the final traps.
The shadow barrier shattered, collapsing inward, dark energy dissipating like smoke in the wind. The commander staggered, weakened but not defeated, eyes flashing with fury.
Even as the danger intensified, Mukul felt a surge of confidence. Together, the women and he had adapted faster than the commander anticipated. The synchronized strike had broken the shadow barrier—a feat no one else could achieve.
Golden light pulsed from the artifacts, illuminating the chamber. The team was bruised but determined, energy threads still connecting them, reinforcing strength and focus.
Mukul looked at the women, gratitude and determination shining in his eyes. "We did it. The barrier is broken, but the fight isn't over. The commander's heart of darkness awaits, and we're ready."
Kavya grinned. "Bring it on. This is getting interesting."
Anaya nodded. "We'll take this victory and push forward. Precision, unity, and vigilance—always."
Saira's calm voice reminded them, "Observe, adapt, and act together. Our strength is in harmony."
Meera added firmly, "Protecting each other—that is our true power."
Liyana twirled her dagger. "And style, of course, optional but highly effective."
The shadow barrier had fallen. The commander's defences weakened. And yet, Mukul knew this was just one step closer to the ultimate confrontation.
Golden light pulsed from the artifacts—a reminder that courage, unity, and strategy would guide them through every shadow still lurking in the heart of the stronghold.