Episode 42 — The Shadow's Decision
November 17, 1945 — 4:50 AM
> The Codex pulsed, ready to project again, but this time, it wasn't just a matter of surviving the test. They had to choose their approach, understand the nature of the shadow, and anticipate the Guardian. The test that lay ahead was mental, physical, and spiritual all at once.
The large, handless clock in the center of the suspended plaza vibrated gently. Each pulse seemed to measure not time, but Clarisse and Léandre's strength of will. The Codex floated between them, radiating a pulsing green glow, as if understanding their hesitation.
"The shadow will react if we don't decide now," Léandre murmured. "Every moment of doubt strengthens it."
Clarisse closed her eyes. She felt the entity within her shiver, impatient, ready to act on instinct and destroy everything. But she knew that giving in completely would be a mistake. She had to control it, not simply submit.
"Borax... guide me," she mentally implored.
The monk's voice echoed in their minds, firm and reassuring:
"Measured control. The entity is not your enemy, but your ally if you know how to listen. Don't let instinct take over."
The Guardian appeared then, more tangible than ever, his red eyes staring into their souls. He didn't speak. His raised hands were enough to manipulate the Codex and the reality around them. The suspended buildings twisted, the streets reversed, and the shadows of passersby transformed into twisted creatures.
Leander and Clarisse turned to each other. They understood that the only way to pass this test was to merge their wills, to channel the entity's energy together without letting themselves be dominated.
"We do it together," Clarisse said determinedly.
"Yes," Leander replied. "Together."
A green light exploded around them, forming a circle of protection that also encompassed the Guardian's illusions. The Codex began to vibrate intensely, absorbing and redirecting the shadow energy. The ghostly creatures were repelled, but the entity within Clarisse growled, still refusing to fully obey.
"Don't fight it," Borax murmured. "Guide it. Transform its power into a shield, not a weapon."
Then Clarisse concentrated her breathing, feeling the entity calm down and emit a more stable energy. Leander, for his part, touched the Codex, channeling his will into the green circle. Together, they created a wave that neutralized the distortion of reality and stabilized the suspended building.
The Guardian, surprised by their mastery, stepped back slightly. The Codex opened a new page, clearly indicating their next destination: an even older, darker place, where shadow and light would be tested to the limits of their minds and bodies.
"We've passed this stage..." said Leander, breathless but determined.
"Yes... but the Guardian won't leave us alone," replied Clarisse. "The real test begins now."
The Codex pulsed, ready to throw them once more. Borax, still present at a distance, whispered to them:
"You've mastered the shadow this time, but prepare yourselves. The next place will test everything you are. Body, mind, and soul."
They held hands, preparing for the unknown, as the green light of the Codex enveloped them, propelling them towards their next trial.