CHAPTER 11

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 The Forbidden Forest - Jimin and Emma

As Jimin's words sink in, Emma's mind races. Memories she had pushed aside now flood back, vivid and chilling. She remembers a moment—late one night, weeks ago—when she overheard Lyra in hushed conversation with a cloaked figure. She hadn't been able to make sense of it then, but now, everything feels disturbingly clear.

Emma's breath quickens, and she stares at Jimin with wide eyes.

Emma:
"Lyra... I remember. She was talking to someone, a hooded man, near the dorms one night. I thought it was weird, but I didn't think much of it at the time."

Jimin's expression darkens as he steps closer, his worry deepening.

Jimin:
"What did you hear, Emma? You need to tell me everything."

Emma bites her lip, trying to recall every detail of that strange night. Her memories are hazy, but the fragments that do surface are enough to make her shiver.

Emma:
"They were talking about... someone. I couldn't make out who, but they kept mentioning the bond. They said something about 'finding the key' and 'keeping her close.' I didn't understand it then, but now... it sounds like they were talking about me."

Jimin's jaw tightens as he listens, his eyes never leaving Emma's. He reaches out and grabs her hands, holding them tightly as if to ground her.

Jimin:
"They were talking about you. Lyra has been watching you, waiting for the right moment. I think she's working for someone—someone powerful who wants to use you. The bond between us is part of that, and I need to protect you, Emma. This isn't just about us anymore."

Emma's heart races. The bond, the darkness, Lyra—it all feels too much to handle. But the way Jimin holds her, the seriousness in his voice, makes her realize just how deep this goes. Her chest tightens with fear, but she knows she can't run from this anymore.

Emma:
"But why me, Jimin? Why now?"

Jimin exhales slowly, his eyes softening as he looks at her, clearly conflicted.

Jimin:
"There's something ancient about your magic, Emma. You're special. I've sensed it since the moment I met you. The bond didn't just form randomly—it was fate. But it's also what's making you a target."

The weight of his words presses down on Emma, and she feels a wave of confusion and fear wash over her. She knew the bond was powerful, but she never imagined it was part of something bigger—something darker.

Emma:
"Do you think Lyra... wants to hurt me?"

Jimin doesn't hesitate.

Jimin:
"I'm certain of it. She's playing a part, pretending to be your friend. But she's been sent to keep an eye on you—to make sure you don't realize what you're capable of."

The world suddenly feels too small, too dark. Emma pulls away from Jimin, her hands shaking as the enormity of the situation hits her.

Emma (whispering):
"What if she's already planning something?"

Jimin moves closer again, his voice soft but firm.

Jimin:
"That's why I brought you here. We need to figure out our next move before she makes hers. I won't let her get to you, Emma. I swear."

The seriousness in his voice sends a rush of warmth through her, and for a moment, she feels safe—protected. But the memory of Lyra's voice, her sinister whispers, lingers in Emma's mind like a dark cloud she can't shake.

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