Volume 3 — Chapter 3: Trial of Shadows
The Relic of Shadows pulsed with an eerie rhythm, its black crystal veins twisting like serpents of light. As Lyriana and Aryn grasped it together, a surge of energy flared, pulling them into a vision that felt more real than the world around them.
They found themselves in a mirror version of Arvandor—dark, twisted, and lifeless. Shadows moved like living beings, whispering doubts and fears directly into their minds.
"Lyriana… Aryn… your love is a weakness," the voices hissed. "The Moonstone cannot protect you. Your bond will destroy you before the council does."
Lyriana's chest tightened. Memories of past betrayals, the council's relentless pursuit, and the fear of losing Aryn surged in her mind. She stumbled, but Aryn's hand held hers firmly.
"You're not real," he said, eyes blazing. "These are illusions. Nothing can break what we have—nothing."
The shadows intensified, forming twisted versions of themselves—dark doubles taunting, attacking, and separating them. Lyriana faced her double, whispering every doubt she had ever carried. Aryn confronted his own reflection, seeing visions of failure, guilt, and a world without her.
But as the illusions struck, the Moonstone pulsed through them, amplifying their unity. Their hands squeezed together, and their energy intertwined, creating a barrier of silver light that repelled the shadows.
Lyriana spoke aloud, her voice steady. "We are not afraid. We face this together, as always."
Aryn nodded, energy from the Moonstone flaring brighter than ever. "Our bond is our strength. Love is not a weakness—it's the key."
The shadows shrieked and dissipated as the relic's energy harmonized with their hearts. Light and dark swirled in balance, and the Relic of Shadows lifted slightly, acknowledging their victory.
Elion's voice echoed from the edges of the vision. "You have passed the first trial. But remember—this is only the beginning. The relics test not power alone, but the strength of your hearts, the depth of your trust, and the courage of your forbidden love."
Breathing heavily, Lyriana turned to Aryn. "We did it… together."
He brushed a strand of hair from her face. "Always… together."
Outside the vision, the real world awaited, but the first trial had already proven one truth: their love was a weapon as powerful as any magic, and the Relics of Shadows had only just begun to test it.