In the deepest chamber of the Labyrinth, the Nameless Shadow awaited. The vast cavern was draped in darkness, broken only by the sickly green glow of crystal spires arranged in a circle. The air was frigid and heavy with malice. The Shadow itself shifted at the center of the chamber—a towering mass of living darkness that defied any single form. Claws, fangs, and coiling tendrils flickered in and out of its writhing silhouette. Twin red eyes flared open amid the blackness as the heroes approached. “So, the champions arrive,” the entity rasped, its voice echoing from all directions. “You destroyed my servants... but here, at my heart, you will fa

Morning sunlight spilled over the guild training grounds, where Ethan gathered Celestia, Erik, and Selena for their first training session. A few curious guild members looked on from the sidelines, with Marina and Neo watching proudly.Ethan cleared his throat, trying to sound instructor-like. “Alright, let’s start with a spar to warm up. Erik and Selena, you’re up first.”Erik grinned confidently at the petite elf. He lunged with a practice sword, only to find himself flat on his back moments later—outsmarted by Selena’s quick barrier magic and a well-timed burst of light. The onlookers chuckled as Ethan helped a bewildered Erik up and offered a few pointers about not underestimating an opponent. Selena beamed, and even Celestia’s lips quirked in mild amusement at the spectacle.Next, Ethan faced Celestia in the sparring ring. They took their stances, Ethan with a wooden sword and Celestia with a blunted training spear that mimicked her own. A hush fell as they began. Celestia struck