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Chapter 69: Fractured Loyalties

Author: Marcus Vale
last update Last Updated: 2025-01-18 06:12:35

The group stood in uneasy silence, the figure’s final words hanging heavy in the air. The once-oppressive hum of the monolith had faded, but its presence lingered like a phantom. The key in Emma’s hand pulsed faintly, its light subdued, as though mirroring the doubt settling over her heart.

“What do we do now?” Jamie’s voice broke the silence, carrying a nervous edge. He shifted his weight from foot to foot, his skateboard clutched tightly. “Because I’m starting to think we’re way out of our depth.”

Vivienne spun her dagger between her fingers, her sharp gaze fixed on Emma. “The question isn’t what we do—it’s what she’s going to do.”

Emma flinched, her grip tightening on the key. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Vivienne stepped forward, her voice low but cutting. “That thing—whatever it was—said the key can break the balance. That puts a lot of power in your hands. And a lot of responsibility.”

“I know that,” Emma snapped, though her voice wavered. “I didn’t ask for this, Vivienne. I’
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