The Dark Knight's Desire – Volume 15: The Sigil's Trial
The highest tower of the Forgotten Citadel loomed above them, its glowing sigil pulsing with a rhythm that matched Kael's heartbeat. "I really don't like glowing magical symbols," he muttered, gripping his sword.
Elara floated beside him, eyes bright with determination. "Then it's a good thing you're not alone. We face this together, remember?"
Kael huffed, a rare smile tugging at his lips. "I'd rather be anywhere else… but yes, together."
The sigil's magic surged, creating illusions of their deepest desires—and fears. Kael saw a Lumeria ruled by power alone, his heart hardened, Elara absent. Elara saw herself mastering all magic, yet without Kael's laughter and teasing beside her.
"Okay… this is worse than the Mirror of Mischief," Kael muttered, swinging his sword at an illusion of himself dramatically brooding.
Elara laughed, blasting another illusion into sparkling confetti. "It does have worse lighting effects!"
Suddenly, the sigil spoke in a voice that resonated through their souls: "Only those who embrace both desire and destiny may pass. Fail, and everything you hold dear will vanish."
Kael grabbed Elara's hand, their powers intertwining, hearts syncing. "We've faced every danger, every shadow, and survived. I trust us. I trust you."
Elara's magic flared, laughter and determination blending into a radiant aura. "Then let's finish this ridiculous test together."
They stepped forward, their bond illuminating the tower, shattering illusions, and dispelling the sigil's oppressive magic. The tower trembled, the citadel's stones singing with newfound energy, and a doorway appeared—beyond it, the final challenge awaited.
Kael exhaled, armor gleaming in the light. "Well… that went better than expected."
Elara smirked, brushing dust from her robes. "Don't get cocky, Dark Knight. The real fun starts on the other side."
A shadow flickered across the doorway, a whisper curling in the air: "The ultimate desire… the final destiny… awaits."
Kael and Elara exchanged a glance, hearts racing, hands intertwined. Together, they stepped through the doorway—toward the final trial that would decide Lumeria's fate, and the future of their love.