The Shadow Self took a moment to study Mira. Its features, though mirroring Mira's, held an ethereal quality, its expressions almost dreamlike. "I can teach you about the parts of yourself that you've overlooked or suppressed, the facets you've chosen to cast away in pursuit of power. The lessons will be challenging, but they can be invaluable."
Mira shifted her stance, preparing for anything. "Show me."
The forest dimmed further, the darkness seeming to emanate from the Shadow Self. The trees around them became almost imperceptible, their forms melting into the blackness.
The Shadow Self began to circle Mira, its movements fluid and unhurried. "Every person, every cultivator, has a dark side. Not necessarily evil, but hidden. Thoughts and emotions that aren't acted upon or even acknowledged. Dreams discarded, fears unchallenged. That's where I come in."
