Kaden's breath caught as Shadow Kaden's blade descended. In the split second before impact, Kaden recalled Eira's words: "Balance is self-acceptance."
He lowered his sword. "I see you."
Shadow Kaden snarled. "You should fear me."
Kaden sheathed his sword. "I fear myself. But I choose light."
The mirror Kaden shattered, reflections merging. Kaden felt his doubts dissolve.
Lara and Arin approached, concern etched on their faces. "Kaden?"
Kaden smiled. "It's okay. I'm whole."
Eira awaited, nodding. "The prophecy's first test is passed. But Elysium's true enemy stirs—The Devourer, a force beyond balance."
Arin frowned. "What is it?"
Eira's voice dropped. "A void that unmakes worlds. It seeks the Heart."
Lara's eyes widened. "How do we stop it?"
Eira handed Kaden a crystal shard. "The Devourer fears singularity—a fusion of light and shadow within you."
Kaden clenched the shard. "How do I do it?"
Eira vanished. A void opened, The Devourer's presence chilling the air.
Kaden faced it. "Time to face my choice."
The Devourer spoke: "Consume or be consumed."
Kaden focused... 😊