The dark energy burst from the altar with violent intensity, swirling into a vortex that seemed to suck in all light and sound. Leo felt the overwhelming force pressing against him, the malevolence of the magic threatening to pull him into the abyss.
"Everyone, get back!" Sofia shouted, grabbing Evelyn and pulling her away from the altar. Owen stumbled backward, nearly dropping his laptop, but managed to keep his balance.
The vortex grew larger, its darkness consuming everything it touched. The carvings on the walls glowed with an eerie light, and strange whispers echoed through the chamber. It was as if the chamber itself was alive with dark energy, and it was ready to devour them all.
Leo knew they had to act quickly before the vortex grew too powerful. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small crystal—the same artifact that had granted him his unique abilities. It pulsed with a faint light, and he knew it was his only hope to counter the darkness.
