Isla channeled all her remaining strength, focusing the amulet's light into a single, searing beam. It struck the obsidian heart, a blinding flash erupting as light and darkness collided. The structure cracked, then shattered, releasing a wave of pure energy that washed over the cavern.
The serpentine woman screamed, her form flickering, her power waning. The corrupted followers cried out, their dark energy dissipating, their fanaticism replaced by fear. The cavern trembled, the ground shaking as the obsidian heart's influence crumbled.
Kai, seizing the opportunity, fought his way to Isla's side, his sword raised. Together, they faced the woman, their light a beacon against her fading darkness. The woman, weakened but still dangerous, lunged, her obsidian nails extended.
Isla met her attack with a surge of light, her energy overwhelming the woman's. The woman cried out, her form dissolving into a swirling vortex of shadows. With a final, desperate surge of energy, Isla banished her, the darkness retreating, leaving behind a cavern bathed in the warm glow of the amulet.
The battle was won. The obsidian heart was destroyed, its corrupting influence vanquished. The gathered followers, freed from the darkness, looked around in confusion, their faces slowly registering the light. The darkness had been pushed back, but the fight for balance would continue.