Darkness in the Shadows

CHAPTER 43

Alana increased her pace as she ran through the trees. Over the past few months, she had made it a daily routine, navigating the ever-changing obstacle course of fallen trees.

With no way home she decided that she would welcome her life as it is now. The adjustment was slow, not having a goal to work towards, a next step to complete on her journey home.

Alana instead spent her days with Terran and aiding the rebels in Arksa, forming strong alliances and exercising. She heard that Drax's body was found in Juroc shortly after she killed Unbul. Alana knew the link had killed him when she ended Unbul's life, but she felt no guilt—it was his choice.

Finishing her run, Alana smiled as she returned to the house. She had come to terms with the destruction of her way home, mourning for Dante, Jai, and her family, knowing she would never see them again.

She had become accustomed to her home, even moved things around to her liking. The darkness within her made her shiver as the chill enveloped her.

Alana had not felt such a strong response from the darkness in such a long time. The cold crept along her arms, causing her to rub them, she felt the familiar push in her mind, a warning perhaps?

The new establishment of the land was holding well. The only creatures that didn't survive in Marka were the Vumpeers, who needed darkness.

Rumors suggested some moved into caves and old mines, but the werewolves had taken it upon themselves to eradicate them. As Lares explained, survival in Marka led them to become monsters, reliant on shadows without Luna and lacet's rays.

Alana had tried her ability on one, realizing it had undergone many stages to reach its current form. She didn't know how to revert them but continued researching, hoping to find a way.

She opened the door and walked into the house to find Elow eating fruit at the table. Alana smiled at him. "Hungry again?" she teased as she walked to pour herself some Prignat.

"Lady of Darkness keeps the good food," he said, holding out the fruit as an offer to share. Alana smiled politely and shook her head.

She had met Elow again after Arksa was agreed upon as the rebels' home. She had offered her home to him whenever he needed food or a safe place to rest. Since then, he had been stopping by once a week or so, though he still preferred to stay high in the trees, following his natural instincts

"How are things going in Arksa?" Alana asked, taking a seat across from him.

"Steady progress, I watch from far. No fights yet" Elow replied, nodding.

"I'm glad to hear that," Alana said warmly. "You're always welcome here, Elow. Don't hesitate to ask if you need anything."

Elow smiled appreciatively. With his mouth full, some juices dripped down his chin, which made Alana chuckle.

Alana pulled out her knives, placing the point of one on the table and slowly turning it, watching the engraved handle as it spun. She would never forget the lady in Riser who sold her these knives, refusing payment, though Alana left it for her anyway.

Dante had been surprised by her skill with them. The first time they sparred upon her return to Kiltrate, she used the blades and shadows to knock him on his back.

Alana smiled, remembering jumping on top of him, straddling his waist. His eyes almost sparkled as he looked into her eyes. His lips inviting. His features were soft yet hard, the same as his grip on her waist, as though he was scared she would disappear again.

"Lady," Elow said, his face now full of concern. Alana looked up, feeling a trickle on her cheek. She quickly wiped away her tears, realizing she had been crying.