Darkness in the Shadows

CHAPTER 32

Jakie looked him over before sighing and looking up at Alana, "I'll do what I can," Jakie said gently, guiding Lares to a chair. "Thank you, Jakie. I didn't know anyone else who could help," Alana said gratefully.

Lares looked around in confusion. "How is someone in Arksa going to help? They were all heavily affected by the restrictions. That's what created this town." he remarked.

Alana and Jakie exchanged, knowing smiles. "Things have changed," Jakie replied softly. "We've learned to adapt and find new ways to heal. Trust us, Lares. We'll do everything we can to help you."

Lares nodded slowly, his resistance waning. Alana felt a surge of relief. She had faith in Jakie's abilities and knew they were one step closer to restoring Lares's sight and, perhaps, his spirit.

"Things have changed, Lares. We can help again," Jakie said softly. Lares seemed even more confused, his brow furrowing as he tried to comprehend her words. Alana placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "I trust you to take care of him," she said quietly to Jakie. Jakie nodded, her hands hovering over Lares's face as she prepared to begin. Alana nodded in return, knowing there was still much she needed to do in Whitefall.

As Alana stepped out of Jakie's home, the air felt crisp against her skin, carrying the scent of fresh dew in the dim morning light. She glanced back at the quaint house, where Jakie was already deeply engrossed in her work with Lares. Feeling reassured that he was in capable hands, Alana turned her focus back to her mission in Whitefall.

The streets of Arksa were surprisingly busy, the murmur of life just beginning to stir. Alana walked briskly, her thoughts racing ahead to the tasks awaiting her return. Whitefall awaited, its secrets and challenges calling out to her.

As she approached the outskirts of Arksa, the familiar sight of the road leading back to Whitefall came into view. A smile formed on her lips; her training had certainly changed her over the past few days, particularly her mastery of the darkness. The path stretched before her, winding through the lush countryside, with the distant mountains framing the horizon.

With each step, Alana felt a surge of determination coursing through her veins. The journey had been long and arduous, but she was ready for whatever lay ahead. The road to Whitefall beckoned, and she answered its call with unwavering resolve.

Her mind drifted back to the events that had transpired, the encounters with the Elders, and the darkness she had learned to wield. She knew that there was much more to uncover, and she was ready to face the challenges that awaited her in Whitefall.

As Alana entered Whitefall, she couldn't shake the strange atmosphere that seemed to envelop the town every time she returned. It was as if the very air was thick with an unknown presence, making her more alert than ever. She couldn't help but notice that the people she passed all looked similar—tired, groggy, and as if they were going through more than the motions of daily life.

Alana glared at the building in the distance, knowing that if Herath was staying in the labyrinth beneath it, the other two Elders must be around there somewhere.

Approaching cautiously, Alana surveyed the heavily guarded building. She pursed her lips, considering her options. Walking to the neighbouring building, she positioned herself in the shadows and enveloped herself in darkness once again. With a clear goal in mind, she maneuvered around the guards and reached the door of the building, which was closed this time.

Keeping an eye on the guards, Alana swiftly pushed the door open wide, as if a strong gust of wind had done it. As the guards moved forward to close it, she slipped inside and made her way quickly towards the portrait next to the stairs.