The moment the figure's hand touched hers, a surge of energy rushed through Emily, awakening every nerve in her body. The Abyss whispered promises of power and secrets untold, wrapping around her consciousness like tendrils of dark mist. She stood at the precipice of a chasm, one foot poised to step into the unknown. Every instinct screamed at her to turn back, but she steadied herself, drawing strength from the small light that flickered within her.
"Breathe," the figure commanded, his voice low and steady. "Let the energy flow through you. Do not fight it; embrace it."
Emily took a deep breath, feeling the icy tendrils of the Abyss coiling around her heart. She focused on that flickering light, allowing it to anchor her. It was the spark of hope she had carried through every challenge, the essence of her humanity. The Abyss sought to smother it, to consume it, but she would not let it.
