Amara’s hand hovered over the glowing orb, her breath trembling in the stillness of the clearing. She could feel Damon’s gaze on her even through the chains of darkness, his crimson eyes flickering with a faint, desperate plea. Yet, in the presence of the ancient figure, time seemed to stand still, her choice weighing heavier than any decision she had ever made.
The figure’s voice broke the silence. “Decide quickly, child. The longer you wait, the deeper the shadows will root themselves.”
Her gaze darted between the orb, radiant with purifying light, and Damon, who writhed under the weight of his bonds. She bit her lip so hard it nearly bled. “There has to be another way,” she said, her voice cracking.
“There isn’t,” the figure replied, its tone final. “The darkness is cunning and relen
