The Shadow King's Rise

CHAPTER FORTY SIX

_RYKER_

As the cave rumbled and shook, I stood up, as my eyes scanning the darkness. The cracks in the walls were growing wider, and I could hear the sound of rocks falling.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was Selene, my niece. Her eyes were blazing with fury, and her teeth were bared.

"Ryker, you've gone too far," she snarled, as she spoke in a low voice.

I smiled, as my heart raced with excitement. "Ah, Selene. Right on cue."

"You're using Annabelle to get to Orion," she accused, dangerously. "You're manipulating her, using her desire for revenge to further your own plans."

I shrugged, as my smile grew wider. "Perhaps. But it's all just part of the game, Selene. And you know it."

Selene's eyes flashed with anger, and she took a step closer to me. "I won't let you do it, Ryker. I won't let you destroy everything."

I laughed, the sound echoing off the walls of the cave. "You can't stop me, Selene. I have the power, and I have the plan. And soon, I'll