Chapter 170: The Doppelganger
As the ethereal glow of the fading light bathed the ancient temple, Aric and Elara stood side by side, the weight of the spirits' revelations hanging heavily between them. The chill in the air deepened, but Aric felt nothing but the simmering ambition that churned within him.
Elara's eyes were filled with concern. "Aric, are you sure about this path? The spirits warned us of the dangers ahead."
He offered her a reassuring smile, one that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Elara, with your guidance and the spirits' blessings, we have nothing to fear."
She nodded slowly, still uneasy. "The hidden path you've seen—it could lead us deeper into the heart of the forest, to places even my people have never ventured."
"All the more reason to explore it," Aric replied smoothly. "Think of the knowledge we could gain, the secrets that could help protect your people."