Chapter 187: Chapter 187: The Shadows Within

The apparitions swirled around them, their voices a haunting chorus of despair and regret. The air in the chamber grew thick with their presence, the temperature plummeting as the shadows loomed closer. Elara's heart pounded in her chest, the weight of the Aetherstone heavy in her hand.

"These shadows," Elara murmured, "they're not just memories. They're the remnants of those who failed to resist the darkness within themselves."

Morgana's grip on her staff tightened as she readied herself for whatever might come next. "Then we need to make sure we don't fall into the same trap."

The first of the apparitions lunged at them, its form flickering like a dying flame. Kirin reacted instinctively, his sword flashing as he struck at the shadow, but his blade passed through it harmlessly, as if cutting through mist. The shadow reformed almost instantly, its hollow eyes fixing on Elara.