Chapter 8: Shadows Among Shadows
The moon hung low over Lafrosa, silver light spilling through the stained-glass windows of the Soul Academy dormitories. Karen's mind was still tangled in the echoes of Shadow Bloom's gentle pulse, the way it blossomed not from destruction but from growth.
Yet, something was wrong.
Unseen by Karen and her friends, a shadow slipped silently through the corridors outside the training grounds, moving with unnatural grace. The cloak it wore seemed to swallow the very light around it, the figure's footsteps making no sound as it tracked Karen's scent—a unique weave of darkness and soul energy.
Voth — The Hollow Knight — a deadly operative of The Veil, one of the shadow factions obsessed with control, had been assigned to retrieve Karen. Her awakening and rapid growth were far too dangerous to be left unchecked.
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Karen and the twins, Leslie and Marie, along with Jim and Cassandra, were gathered in the common room, discussing the latest training techniques Joshua had shown them. The energy was light, laughter blending with quiet concentration as they shared tips.
"I still don't get how you made the petals bloom like that," Leslie said, eyes wide.
Marie smirked. "You'll get there. Just keep practicing."
Jim leaned forward, enthusiasm burning bright. "You're going to be unstoppable, Karen."
Karen smiled softly but her mind was elsewhere. She felt a creeping chill, like a shadow crossing her soul, but when she looked around the room, everyone seemed normal—except Cassandra, who was quieter than usual.
Suddenly, a sharp crack echoed from the hallway.
The room froze.
"Someone's here," Karen whispered, instinct tightening her senses.
Before anyone could react, the door exploded inward, shards of wood scattering. A tall figure cloaked in black stepped through, eyes glowing faintly like coals in the dark.
"It's The Hollow Knight," Marie gasped.
Voth's voice was cold, detached. "Karen Lockwood, you are to come with me."
Karen's heart hammered, but she steadied her stance, summoning Shadow Bloom at once. The dome erupted around her, petals swirling fiercely in defense.
"Not a chance," Karen said, her voice steady despite the fear tightening in her chest.
The twins moved beside her, hands glowing with Soul Energy, and Jim stepped forward, fists clenched.
Cassandra's eyes flashed — and then, unexpectedly, she stepped between Karen and Voth.
"Leave her alone," Cassandra said quietly, but with iron beneath her words.
Voth's eyes narrowed. "You interfere, you die."
The Hollow Knight lunged, shadows twisting into lethal blades that sliced toward Karen and her friends.
The battle had begun.
....