Yet the spirit also brought visions that flashed behind her eyes — dark shapes rising from the deep, storms that swallowed entire fleets, and a future where the shadow claimed coastal villages if left unchecked.
Elara pulled her hand away but the connection lingered. She turned to us with wide eyes. "Mom....It wants me closer. The spirit says I can quiet the shadow forever if I join it fully. It promises power to heal entire lands. But it feels like leaving you behind and I don't want to do that. I'm so confused right now."
The words hit like cold water. I knelt and pulled her into my arms. Her small body trembled against me. "No baby, do not fret or be confused. Take your time and try to overcome it's power. I believe in you."
