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I circled them both a few times, then grabbed each of their hands, examining them closely. I couldn’t believe even their fingerprints were identical. Then, a sudden inspiration hit me. I stepped back a few paces, pulled out my dagger, and right in front of them, I cut my index finger.
Hooked at them and with conviction pointed to Ryker A “He’s the real one.”
The Illusion reverted to its original form, looking utterly confused. “I synchronized his memories. There shouldn’t have been any flaws, should
there?”
“You’re not the real Ryker. So when I got hurt, you didn’t feel a thing.” The moment I cut my finger, I saw Ryker A’s pupils constrict, his face filled with pain and tenderness. Ryker B, however, only showed surprise and confusion, not an ounce of heartache.
The Illusion nodded in understanding. With a wave of its hand, the cave entrance appeared before us. Glancing at Valerie, still struggling within the barrier, lost in thought and unable to distinguish the true from the false, Ryker and I quickly entered the cavern.
Inside the cave were various traps and ambushes. Relying on my memories from my previous life, I easily disarmed or avoided them, successfully reaching the final chamber. At the end of the cavern was a hidden paradise. There was a circular clearing, surrounded by an endless abyss, where raging flames burned. In the center of the clearing, on a high platform, a golden Staff shimmered, illuminated by the firelight.
Ryker’s eyes lit up with excitement at the sight of the Staff. I pulled back his eager attempt to rush forward, hiding us in a concealed spot. Facing Ryker’s puzzled look, I gestured behind us. Valerie and Kaelen were rushing up, having just caught up. Ryker looked even more confused now. I knew he was afraid Valerie would snatch the Staff first. I held his hand, giving him a reassuring look.
Valerie saw the Staff was still there, but she didn’t see Ryker or me, so her running steps gradually slowed.
