Darkness swallowed the moon.
Not gradually.
Not like clouds drifting across the night sky.
It happened in a single heartbeat.
One moment, silver moonlight bathed the Hall of Kings.
The next...
The heavens turned black.
Across every kingdom, wolves howled in terror.
Children woke crying from their sleep.
Ancient warriors who had survived countless battles suddenly felt an unfamiliar fear grip their hearts.
Deep within forgotten forests, hidden caves, and abandoned temples, old Guardians lifted their heads toward the sky.
They all whispered the same words.
"He has returned..."
Inside the underground city, the pillar of black fire continued to rise through the shattered ceiling.
The ancient chamber shook violently.
Pieces of stone crashed around them.
Crystal pillars collapsed
