Chapter 97 - Threads of Deception

The atmosphere grew heavier as Daniel and Mira ventured deeper into the labyrinth of the Abyss. The faint glow of the Shadowbinder's Core illuminated a narrow, uneven path ahead, its jagged edges threatening to collapse with every step.The silence was unnerving, broken only by the distant hum of unseen forces. Daniel's grip tightened on the Core as the Fragment of Insight whispered faint warnings, its cryptic words barely discernible over the oppressive stillness."Daniel," Mira whispered, her voice low. "Do you feel it?"He nodded. "We're not alone."Mira scanned the shadows, her blade drawn and ready. "Something's watching us again. It's not like before—it feels... malicious."Daniel's eyes narrowed as he focused on the shadows ahead. The Core pulsed faintly, sensing something amiss.