Chapter 13 Uncharted Territories

• My eyes had a hard time getting used to the darkness. The air was heavy with a stifling force that seemed to sink into our very bones, and shadows flickered all around us. Grasping Sebastian's hand tightly, I drew strength from his presence. Beside us, just discernible in the faint light, was the ghostly figure of Elara.
• Elara said in a sorrowful murmur, "This place is where Marcus's power is strongest." "He has pulled you right into the center of the curse. Here, reality gives way to his desires.
• Sebastian stated, "We need to stay focused," his voice calm despite the horror in his eyes. "Elara, do you know how we can break free from this place?"