CHAPTER 44: THE HEART OF DARKNESS
The underground cathedral trembled violently as the freed Guardian stood before the Heart. Silver light poured from his body, pushing back centuries of corruption that had poisoned the chamber. For the first time since Kevin and his allies had entered the ancient ruins, the whispers fell silent. The darkness that had once obeyed the Heart retreated from the Guardian’s presence like frightened animals. Kevin slowly rose from the shattered floor, breathing heavily after the brutal battle. Rwanda stood beside him, crimson energy still glowing around her hands. Marcus and the others watched with cautious hope. At the center of the cathedral, the massive black Heart pulsed unevenly, no longer projecting confidence. It had lost its greatest weapon. The Guardia
