Page 31 of Where Darkness Falls

There’s no reply, but I am desperate for an explanation.

Do you know where I come from?I ask a bit more urgently.

The voice does not utter a single word.

How was I able to wield light and absorb the fire wielder’s ability? Can you at least tell me that?I say, growing impatient.

I’m about to give up when the voice replies,I know a great many things, my dear. However, I can’t reveal the answers that you seek until the appointed time.

I grumble loudly.

Oh, how awfully cryptic of you,I mutter.

I do not wish to vex you,she replies.

Well, consider me vexed,I snap.Can I at least know how I’m able to communicate with you?

I’ve been… asleep for quite a while,she says hesitantly.I’ve always been with you, but our connection was silenced until it was time for me to reawaken.

How did you know when you would reawaken?I ask, curious.

I was told that our connection would be restored when you needed me most,she replies.

I roll tomy back and stare at the ceiling, processing what the voice said.

I swallow thickly.So, you knew me before?—

Before you lost your memories?she asks.Yes, I did. As I previously said, I know many things, but I swore not to reveal them to you until?—

The appointed time,I snap back.Yes, I believe you were quite clear the first time.

My eyes feel as if there are lead weights drawing them further down.

I’m quite sure I know the answer, but could you explain what happened to me tonight?I ask, sleepily.

The voice sighs.

I can’t. You must search for the answers you seek, and once you find them, I can speak with you freely,she says sadly.Until then, rest, my dear. You will need strength for the days to come.

What kind of days are to come?I yawn, my eyes feeling much too heavy.

I barely hear her reply before sleep overtakes me.

Dark ones, my dear. Very dark days, indeed.

Screams echo outside.

Black smoke curls out from the estate.

“RUN!” the warbled voice commands.

I’m stumbling through the woods.

My lungs are burning from the exertion.

A voice is calling for me.

I refuse to look back.

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