Chapter 31

Eveline couldn't sleep. Khaen's words echoed in her mind, repeating in an endless cycle: "The shadows have already chosen you." Even after repelling the invasion, the academy was not at peace. Many were injured, and an atmosphere of distrust spread through the halls. The teachers were on high alert, and the students now lived in a constant state of tension.

Eveline, for her part, had no time to reflect. She needed answers. Who was Khaen really? What did he want with her power? And, more importantly, how could she prevent the shadows from claiming her?

Gathered with Alaric and Aria in the secret study room, Eveline pored over ancient texts in search of any clues about the master of shadows.

"He seems deeply connected to those forces we mentioned before," Alaric said, flipping through an old tome. "But I can't find any details about him. It's as if he's a forgotten legend or a shadow in the stories of ages past."

Aria was more concerned about Eveline's emotional state. "He messed with your mind, didn't he? He's trying to convince you that you have no choice."

Eveline nodded slowly. "He's partly right. I feel the shadows drawing me in, as if they are a part of me. But that doesn't mean I should give in."

Alaric slammed his hand on the table, drawing their attention. "I found something." He pointed to a passage in an ancient book. "There's an old ritual described here. Something called 'The Binding of Two Worlds.' It's said that whoever controls light and shadows can access a power beyond human comprehension, but they are also cursed to be consumed by their own darkness."

Eveline felt a shiver run down her spine. "So, is this my fate? To be consumed by the shadows?"

Aria shook her head. "We still don't know. But one thing is clear — Khaen is aware of this power, and he wants to use it."

Eveline sighed, exhausted. "If he's right, and I can't resist... then I'll have to find a way to destroy this power before it destroys me."