Embracing the Shadows36 (A MAGICAL WORLD BELOW THE SURFACE OFTHE EARTH)

Chapter 36: Embracing the Shadows

Rhea took a deep breath, her heart heavy but resolute. “I have made mistakes. I have failed. But that doesn’t mean I am a failure. I am not defined by my past. I am defined by the choices I make now.”

Her reflection faltered, its form flickering with uncertainty. “You can’t escape the truth of your failures.”

“I don’t need to escape it,” Rhea replied firmly. “I have faced my past, and now I choose to move forward. I am stronger because of my mistakes, not in spite of them. And I will never turn away from those who need me again.”

The reflection of Rhea twisted and then faded, disappearing into the ether.

Mira stepped forward, her gaze fixed on the distorted version of herself. “I have spent my life chasing answers, hiding behind knowledge, thinking that if I understood everything, I would have control. But I neglected those who loved me, those who needed me. I was afraid of being vulnerable. But I can see now that it is not weakness to love, to need others.”

Her reflection snarled. “You still don’t understand. You’re nothing without your intellect.”

Mira stood tall, her voice steady. “I am not just my intellect. I am the bonds I’ve formed, the love I have for others. I have learned to embrace both my mind and my heart. That is what makes me whole.”

The reflection cracked, splintering apart as Mira’s words broke its hold.

Kiran stood before his own mirrored self, his fists clenched. The reflection loomed over him, taunting him with the bitter reminders of his father’s disdain. “You are nothing without approval. Your strength means nothing.”

“I spent my life chasing your approval,” Kiran said, his voice firm but calm. “But I now realize I don’t need it. I am enough as I am. I don’t need anyone’s validation to know my worth. I have proven myself through my actions, through my heart. And that is enough.”

The reflection of Kiran wavered before it too crumbled into nothing.