"Very well, Aria," you say, nodding in agreement. "Let us not rush into battle blindly. If your magic can weaken the Rift's defenses, it may give us the advantage we need."
Aria nods appreciatively and begins to focus her energy, her hands glowing with arcane power. With each passing moment, the air around her crackles with increasing intensity as she channels her magic towards the Rift.
As her incantations grow in power, you notice subtle fluctuations in the Rift's energy, indicating that Aria's efforts are indeed having an effect. The oppressive aura surrounding the Rift begins to waver, and the dark energy pulsating from within appears to diminish slightly.
However, just as Aria's magic reaches its peak, a sudden surge of dark energy erupts from the Rift, engulfing her in a sinister glow. Despite her best efforts to withstand the onslaught, she is unable to contain the overwhelming power.
With a pained cry, Aria collapses to the ground, her form wracked with agony as the dark energy courses through her. You rush to her side, but it is already too late. Her life force fades, leaving only a sense of profound loss in its wake.
As Aria's life force fades, leaving only a sense of profound loss in its wake, you and your companions stand in grim silence, mourning her sacrifice. The weight of her bravery hangs heavy in the air, a stark reminder of the dangers that lie ahead.
Despite the cost, Aria's magic has weakened the Rift, offering a glimmer of hope in the darkness that threatens Ethrion. However, the task is far from over, and the fate of your realm still hangs in the balance.
Before you, the Rift of Despair pulses with dark energy, its malevolent aura casting a shadow over the land. The time to act is now, but the path forward is uncertain.
