Chapter 34
Elana and Lucian stepped into a new chamber, its walls glowing faintly crimson. The air was thick, almost alive, and the floor shifted beneath their feet, rearranging itself like a living puzzle. This was the Crimson Labyrinth, the hall's next trial.
"The labyrinth reacts to thought and emotion," Lucian whispered. "Every fear, every desire you feel can change its path. Kade uses it to trap minds. One wrong turn… and you may be lost forever."
Elana's pulse quickened. "How do we find the right path?"
Lucian's silver eyes met hers. "Focus on the bond. Follow the warmth of the mark—it's the only compass the labyrinth cannot corrupt."
As they advanced, walls moved like liquid. Shadows stretched and curled, forming illusions of familiar faces, whispering doubts. Elana nearly faltered when a vision of her parents blaming her for leaving home appeared.
"Remember yourself," Lucian said. "The hall is testing your mind. Don't let it control you."
Elana placed her hand over her mark, letting its warmth spread through her chest. Slowly, the shifting walls began to stabilize, showing the correct path.
Kade's laughter echoed through the labyrinth, deep and cruel. "Clever… but cleverness alone cannot save you from despair."
The shadows intensified, trying to block them, but Elana's resolve was stronger. She reached out, guiding the mark's energy outward. Light radiated from her chest, forcing the illusions to recede.
Finally, the corridor straightened, leading them to an exit. They stumbled out into a wide chamber, the Crimson Labyrinth behind them, walls settling back into solid stone.
Lucian exhaled sharply. "You did it. Few can navigate the labyrinth without losing themselves."
Elsna wiped sweat from her brow, exhausted but relieved. "We're learning… getting stronger."
"Yes," Lucian said softly. "And Kade will notice. He will come for us soon."
Ahead, the chamber door glimmered with silver light, marking the way to the next trial. The hall was relentless, but Elana felt ready. Together, they could face anything.
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