Chapter 76: Tavian's Trial

Xavier steps into the cottage, his eyes determined and his presence grounding. "Maya," he calls softly, his voice a lifeline amidst the chaos. "You're not alone in this. We're here with you."

With each word he speaks, the illusions begin to waver, their hold loosening. Maya takes a deep breath, her gaze shifting from the illusions to Xavier. She draws strength from his presence, from the unwavering support of her friends. And as she does, the illusions shatter like fragile glass, dissipating into nothingness.

Maya stands in the center of the cottage, her heart still racing, but her resolve renewed. The mirage has forced her to confront her past, to acknowledge the pain and the power within her. As Xavier's hand reaches out to her, she takes it, her fingers intertwining with his.

"We'll face this together," he says, his eyes reflecting not just his determination, but his trust in her.