304: Dark forces

The group gazed at the Ruins before them, which radiated an ancient and mysterious aura. Although their hearts were filled with exhaustion, their sense of mission made them resolutely step through the Ruins' main gates.

Inside the Ruins, the light was dim. Strange Gems embedded in the walls flickered with a faint glow, barely illuminating the path ahead. The ground was covered with various complex patterns, as if telling ancient stories. As they went deeper, a thick dark aura wafted toward them, making everyone feel an involuntary chill.

Suddenly, a bottomless Chasm appeared ahead, filled with black mist, and low growls could be heard faintly. Just as the group was considering how to cross, a swarm of Black Bats flew out from the Chasm. They were massive, their eyes flashing with an eerie red light as they lunged frantically at the group.

Xiao Xing quickly brandished his weapon, repelling the Black Bats that drew near. Ji Ziyue and Yin Ping cast Spells from the side, shooting beams of light into the bat swarm. Upon being hit, the bats emitted sharp screeches and dissipated into black smoke. However, the bats were numerous and surged out incessantly, causing the group to gradually fall into a bitter struggle.

During the intense battle, Xiao Xing noticed that the bats seemed very wary of bright light. He immediately had Yin Ping cast a bright light Spell. Yin Ping formed hand Seals, and a dazzling light shot from her hands, illuminating the entire Chasm. Under the illumination of the bright light, the bats fled one after another, their numbers decreasing significantly.

The group took the opportunity to find a way to cross the Chasm. After some exploration, they discovered some protruding stones on both sides of the Chasm that could serve as footholds. Xiao Xing was the first to step onto the stones, moving cautiously toward the opposite side. Ji Ziyue and Yin Ping followed closely behind, and with the mutual help of their teammates, they successfully crossed the Chasm.

Continuing forward, they arrived at a massive circular room. In the center of the room was a Black Stone Platform, upon which sat a Crystal radiating an evil light. The Crystal was surrounded by a ring of Black Iron Chains, seemingly binding some powerful force.

"This should be the source of the dark power," Xiao Xing said, pointing at the Crystal. The group stepped forward and observed the Crystal closely, discovering a blurry figure constantly struggling inside.

Just as the group was preparing to study how to Seal the Crystal, a burst of eerie laughter suddenly echoed around the room. Following that, black cracks appeared on the walls, and countless Dark Tentacles surged out from the cracks, sweeping toward the group.

Xiao Xing, Ji Ziyue, and Yin Ping quickly stood back-to-back, engaging in a life-and-death struggle with the Dark Tentacles. The Dark Tentacles were powerful, each attack carrying a strong impact. The group resisted with all their might, but they gradually began to lose ground.

At the critical moment, Xiao Xing remembered the Seal method recorded in the ancient books. He concentrated his mind, gathered all his strength, and chanted under his breath. As he chanted, the weapon in his hand emitted a golden light that gradually expanded, enveloping the entire room.

Under the illumination of the golden light, the Dark Tentacles retreated. Xiao Xing seized the opportunity, rushed toward the Black Stone Platform, and plunged his weapon into the Crystal. The Crystal trembled violently, and then its light gradually dimmed.

As the Crystal's light vanished, the Dark Tentacles also disappeared completely, and the room returned to tranquility. The group successfully Sealed the source of the dark power, and the crisis of this continent was finally resolved.

Walking out of the Ruins, sunlight fell upon the group. They looked at each other, relieved smiles appearing on their faces. After this arduous adventure, they had not only gained precious friendship but had also become Heroes who saved the continent.