Desperate Strikes, Last Stand of the Guardian

The tension in the air grew thick as Nicholas maintained his control over the spatial cut. He gritted his teeth, focusing every ounce of his willpower on holding the disruption in place. The air shimmered violently where the cut had been made, the very fabric of space rippling as it fought against his control. Nicholas knew he couldn't keep this up for long—every second felt like a knife twisting in his mind, the strain of manipulating such delicate energy threatening to overwhelm him.

"Now's our chance!" Lyle shouted, his voice cutting through the chaotic sounds of battle. "Everyone, focus on the guardian!"

The team didn't hesitate. With the tether between the crystal and the guardian severed, the abomination's movements grew sluggish, its power clearly diminished. Lyle, Ruby, and the others launched themselves at the creature with everything they had, determined to take it down before the connection could reestablish itself.