The Stray Souls ["The Diary Keeper" Sequel; "The Dark Legacies" Series]

Chapter 31: Evil never sleeps

It was exactly what I least expected on that day and in that place. There were about two dozen shadows, swirling around as if drawing attention. It was somewhat reminiscent of a dance, if you could even call it like that.

I sprinted towards the shadows, heart pounding. I was there within a few minutes, and they surrounded me from all sides.

And I accidentally did what was strictly forbidden - I looked into the eyes of one of them. In that instant, something happened that I can't explain logically - the shadow began to change before my eyes, and in a minute or two, it became... a ghost. Another five minutes passed, and all two dozen shadows reverted to their previous form of existence. Now they were no longer trapped between the world of the living and the dead.

Later, the ominous mist dispersed, the cold turned into warmth, and the entire group of ghosts vanished - they had nothing more to do here. From now on, they are where they should always be.

My thoughts quickly shifted. Does this mean I can save all the shadows only with the power of my will and a single glance? And for this, there's no need for any Spectral Emitter? Perhaps even Grace and Harper hadn't anticipated this.

I turned back to my friends. They stood still, as if paralyzed. Silence lingered for a while.

"I took a photo and posted it on social media," Josie finally spoke.

"And... so what?" Martin asked.

Everyone remained silent, shifting their gaze to Josie. It seemed like she was at a loss for words. No one understood what was happening. I didn't explain anything to anyone - why should they know the truth? It's not what people need to know. Some secrets must remain secrets. Because when certain things wake up from a long slumber, they remind themselves too loudly.

Eventually, Josie forced herself to respond. "Journalists will come here tomorrow."

***

"Good evening, viewers. I'm your host, Meghan Barnes, bringing you a special report from Ravenwood near the lake. It seems the tranquil setting has been disrupted by an unsettling discovery - residents reporting sightings of ghosts. Now, let's delve into the details.

As you can see from the photograph captured at the scene, shadows dance mysteriously near the water's edge. A haunting sight that has left the community both intrigued and uneasy. However, as we dig deeper into this paranormal account, questions arise.

While the photograph has stirred quite a buzz, our investigation reveals a lack of tangible evidence to support the ghostly claims. No traces have been found, leaving skeptics to wonder if it's a mere figment of the imagination or something more elusive.

As we speak to locals, a mix of skepticism and curiosity permeates the air. Some are convinced that Ravenwood holds secrets beyond our understanding, while others dismiss the notion entirely. It's a delicate balance between belief and disbelief, leaving the community in suspense.