The fear of being discovered and exposed forced her into a state of isolation. Countless hours were spent in solitude, practicing her magic, and meticulously plotting her next move against Mei. However, an ever-increasing unease settled within her, manifesting in recurring dreams of Mei—a haunting echo pleading to be released, to reclaim her own body.
Initially, Xiao dismissed these dreams as mere manifestations of her own fears and anxieties. Yet, they persisted, refusing to be silenced. The more Xiao fought against them, the more she questioned the authenticity of her triumph over Mei. A seed of doubt had been planted, growing into a tangled web of uncertainty within her.
Unable to bear the weight of her actions any longer, Xiao resolved to seek the aid of a powerful mage known for his expertise in the darkest and most forbidden magics. This mage, known as Eldric, resided deep within the forbidden forest, secluded from the prying eyes of the world. Xiao knew the risks of seeking out such forbidden knowledge, but she was desperate for answers and a way to undo the consequences of her actions.
After days of arduous travel through treacherous terrain, Xiao finally arrived at Eldric's hidden abode. The air was thick with ancient magic, and a sense of foreboding weighed heavy upon her as she approached the weathered door of the mage's dwelling. With a deep breath, she summoned the courage to knock.
The door creaked open, revealing a hunched figure with a long, white beard and eyes that seemed to hold centuries of wisdom. Eldric regarded Xiao with a mix of curiosity and caution, recognizing the powerful aura that surrounded her.
"What brings you to my humble dwelling, young witch?" Eldric's voice was deep and resonant, carrying a hint of weariness from years spent delving into forbidden arts.
"I seek your guidance, Master Eldric," Xiao replied, her voice laced with a mixture of urgency and trepidation. "I have ventured into forbidden territory, and now I fear I may have paid too high a price for my victory."
Eldric's eyes narrowed as he studied Xiao's countenance. He sensed the turmoil within her, the battle of identities waging within her soul.
"Come, child. Step inside," Eldric beckoned, his voice laced with a touch of sympathy. "We shall uncover the truth of your predicament."
Xiao followed Eldric into his dimly lit abode, where shelves lined with dusty tomes and arcane artifacts stretched into the depths of the room. They settled in a circle of candles, their flickering flames casting dancing shadows on the walls.
With measured caution, Xiao recounted the events leading to her fateful decision, her voice trembling with a mixture of guilt and regret. She spoke of Mei's memories intertwining with her own, of the dreams that haunted her, and the unsettling doubts that had taken root in her mind.
Eldric listened intently, his face etched with a mix of concern and understanding. When Xiao finished her tale, a solemn silence enveloped the room. Eldric's aged eyes seemed to penetrate her very essence, searching for the truth buried within her conflicted soul.