Asher pulled me through the winding forest path, urgency in every step. We finally reached a rustic gate hidden behind foliage. He produced a small key, unlocking the creaky entrance.
"Welcome to Blackwood Manor's secret sanctuary – Evelyn's hiding place."
My heart raced as we stepped inside. The estate resembled Ravenswood Manor's charm but with warmer, cozier tones.
Asher led me to a door on the second floor. My hands trembled as he knocked softly.
"Aria's here, Evie."
The door creaked open, revealing my twin sister – Evelyn. Alive.
We collapsed into each other's arms, tears of joy streaming down our faces.
After endless moments of reunion, Evelyn pulled back, eyes serious:
"Aria, Asher filled me in. You need to know everything – Mother and Father's secrets, the entity's name... Malakai."
My blood ran cold. Malakai – a name whispered in dark Ravenswood legends.
*My intense gaze continues the story*
Evelyn's expression turned bitter as she began:
"Mother and Father were desperate to save me from Malakai's sacrifice. They believed faking my death would deceive the entity and break the family curse... partially."
My mind reeled – our parents' actions were both selfish and selfless.
Evelyn continued:
"But Father also hoped my 'death' would strengthen his business alliances and power within Malakai's influence. Mother was blinded by love for him and fear of Malakai."
Asher added gravely:
"Your father made a side deal with Malakai – offering you, Aria, as a future sacrifice in exchange for temporary power and Evelyn's temporary reprieve."
I felt like I'd been punched in the gut – my own father had betrayed me.
Evelyn grasped my hands:
"We must stop Father and break Malakai's curse before it's too late. You're the key, Aria – the last piece of his dark ritual."