CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY FOUR - The Prophecy's Shadow

Elara's expression softened. "You can't protect them from their destiny, Erik. But you can prepare them for it. Guide them, teach them, love them. The prophecy speaks of choices - your child's path is not set in stone." Anna reached out, catching Erik's hand as he passed. He stopped, looking down at her, his eyes filled with a tumult of emotions. "We'll face this together," Anna said softly. "Whatever comes, we'll be there for our child." Erik nodded, squeezing her hand. He turned back to Elara. "What do we do now? How do we prepare for... for this?" "For now, we continue as we have been," Elara replied. "Protecting Anna and the child, monitoring the magical energy. But we must also be vigilant. Prophecies like this... they have a way of attracting attention, both wanted and unwanted." As if in response to Elara's words, a chill seemed to pass through the room. The candle flames flickered, casting eerie shadows on the walls. Anna shivered, drawing closer to Erik. "There's more yo