Doubts creeping up to Denise

The ancient chamber deep within the Crimson Peaks thrummed with an otherworldly energy. Denise stood before a massive obsidian mirror, its surface rippling like dark water. Her reflection stared back at her, eyes glowing with barely contained power and ambition.

But beneath that facade of strength, a seed of doubt had taken root.

Denise turned away from the mirror, her long fingers tracing the edge of an ornate desk covered in maps, ancient texts, and glowing vials of Etherium. She picked up a small crystal, channeling her power into it. The air shimmered, and spectral images of her allies appeared before her.

"Jasmine," Denise murmured, her sister's face materializing first. A scowl marred Denise's features. "My own blood, and yet you turn your back on our destiny."

The betrayal stung more than Denise cared to admit. Jasmine had always been the voice of caution, of restraint. But Denise had never imagined her sister would actively oppose her plans.