"This form attacks the mind. For these two ladies to pass this trial, they must fight a mental battle, one that wouldn't be easy on them."
In the sky, the shadow-beast twisted around Linx and Jinx like a giant serpent made of ink. It didn't touch them, but it surrounded them. Its whispers crawled into their thoughts.
Jinx gripped her daggers tightly. Her breathing became shallow. The assault on her mind was palpable and tormenting, considering the beast had already entered her mind.
It got into both their minds.
"Why are you still trying?" the voice asked her. "You've always been the weaker one. You only stand because of her."
Jinx flinched. Her daggers shook.
"You're a shadow," the whisper said. "No talent. No gifts. Just a follower."
The eyes around them began to glow faintly purple. The sky pulsed. Linx's grip on her sword weakened.
Jinx dropped to one knee, feeling the weight of the tormenting voice entering her mind. The feeling wasn't pleasant at all.
