CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY EIGHT - THE BLOOD MOON BATTLE

The floor beneath them gave way, sending Anna, Erik, and several others plummeting into darkness. They landed hard in what appeared to be an underground chamber, disoriented and separated from the rest of their force. As Anna struggled to her feet, her eyes widened in horror. There, in the center of the chamber, stood Lysander. He was surrounded by a pulsing field of dark energy, the artifact they had sought for so long clutched in his hands. "Welcome," Lysander said, his voice echoing unnaturally in the cavernous space. "I've been expecting you." Anna's mind raced. How had Lysander known about their plan? Had there been another traitor in their midst? She pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the immediate threat. "It's over, Lysander," she said, trying to project confidence she didn't entirely feel. "Your forces are overwhelmed. Surrender now, and we can end this without further bloodshed." Lysander laughed, the sound sending chills down Anna's spine. "Oh, my dear Anna. You hav