Shattering revelations

Chapter 22: Shattering Revelations

As they watched the house burn to ashes, Emily's eyes locked onto Sophie's, a mix of emotions swirling in their depths. Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, Emily revealed a shocking secret:

"I'm the key to unlocking the entity's true power," Emily said, her words sending a chill down Sophie's spine. "I'm the last living heir of Oakwood's founders."

The detectives exchanged stunned glances. "What do you mean?" one of them asked, his voice laced with skepticism.

Emily's eyes dropped, her voice cracking. "I was born to fulfill an ancient prophecy. My ancestors made a pact with the entity, trading innocence for power. And I'm the final piece of the puzzle."

Sophie's eyes widened in horror. "No, Emily. That can't be true."

But Emily's words were backed by a haunting conviction. "I've seen the rituals, Sophie. I've felt the entity's presence. It's been guiding me, waiting for me to unlock its true potential."

The detectives vowed to uncover the truth about Oakwood's dark past, to expose the secrets that had haunted the town for centuries.

As they stood there, the flames consuming the house behind them, Sophie and Emily shared a heartfelt reunion. They hugged each other tightly, tears streaming down their faces.

"I'm so sorry, Emily," Sophie whispered. "I should have protected you."

Emily's voice was barely audible. "You did, Sophie. You saved me."

But as they held each other, the darkness closing in around them, Sophie knew that their journey was far from over. The entity was still out there, waiting for Emily to unlock its true power.