Shadows of Deception

Marc's heart pounded as he stood in the forbidden chamber of Eldoria, confronting his Aunt Monica, the woman he had once trusted implicitly. The air was thick with tension, the shadows cast by the flickering torchlight dancing across the ancient stone walls. "Aunt Monica, how could you?" Marc's voice trembled, a mixture of disbelief and betrayal. "I've heard the whispers, the rumors of your dark magic. I never wanted to believe it, but now, seeing this..." He gestured around the chamber, his eyes taking in the arcane symbols and the ominous energy that permeated the space. Aunt Monica's expression shifted, a flicker of fear crossing her features before she schooled her face into a mask of calm. "Marc, my dear nephew, you must understand. The power I wield is not for selfish gain, but for the greater good of our kingdom. The sacrifices I make are necessary to protect us all from the darkness that threatens to consume us." Marc shook his head, unwilling to be swayed by her words. "Sacrifices? At what cost, Aunt Monica? I've heard the whispers of the villagers, the tales of those who have vanished without a trace. How many innocent lives have you taken in the name of yo