**Chapter 21: The Heart of the Darkness**
Lina returned from the Realm of Echoes with new insights and a deeper understanding of her power. She realized that her true strength lay in unity—trusting her friends and embracing her past.
She led her allies into battle at the realm's core—a place where darkness threatened to seep through every crack. The shadows fought fiercely, twisting the landscape and corrupting the land.
In the midst of chaos, Lina faced Malakar himself—more powerful and vengeful than ever, wielding shadows that seemed alive.
"Your hope is a weakness," Malakar sneered. "I will drown the realm in darkness and become its master."
Lina summoned her newfound magic, channeling the ancient magic fragment she had gained from Elysia. With a brilliant burst of light, she banished Malakar's shadows, sealing him away once more—but she knew this was only a temporary victory.