Chapter 2: The Mysterious Visitor

The air in the Dusk Corridor felt solid, frozen in time. Irene moved cautiously, guided by the glowing runes on the walls. Suddenly, heavy footsteps echoed behind her. She spun around—empty.

“Don’t believe the ashes you see…” The chant replayed in her mind.

“Young alchemist, you shouldn’t be here,” a deep voice resonated from the shadows. A tall figure in dark robes emerged, wielding a staff tipped with a glowing violet gem.

“Who are you?” Irene raised her compass defensively. “I am one of the guardians of this corridor. You may call me Silas.”

Irene froze. “Silas… Mentor Silas Ash?” The man lowered his hood, revealing a familiar yet aged face. “I am Silas, but perhaps not the one you know. Time flows differently here.”

“My mentor is missing. I must find him!” Irene cried. “Perhaps the danger is not his, but yours,” Silas sighed, eyeing her compass. “It led you here because it resonates with your genes. You have been drawn into a game far more complex than you imagine.”

Pointing deeper into the corridor, he faded into transparency. “If you seek the truth, follow the compass. But beware, every choice here changes your destiny.”