Chapter 46

The figure stepped forward, revealing a tall, gaunt man with sunken eyes and a twisted grin. He was dressed in tattered robes, and a faint aura of dark magic surrounded him.

"Who are you?" Poppy demanded, trying to keep her voice steady.

"I am Malakai," the man replied, his voice dripping with malice. "And I have been charged with testing your worthiness to continue on this journey."

Lily stepped forward, her eyes flashing with defiance. "We don't need to prove ourselves to you," she said.

Malakai chuckled, the sound sending shivers down their spines. "Oh, but you do," he said. "You see, the Society has been infiltrated by dark forces, and we must ensure that only those with the purest of intentions are allowed to continue."

Sophia frowned, her brow furrowed in concern. "What kind of test?" she asked.

Malakai's grin grew wider. "A test of courage, wit, and heart," he said. "Are you prepared to face your deepest fears and doubts?"