Chapter 21: Inside the Shadow

I woke inside darkness.

No body.

No sound.

No light.

The Shadow Wolf stood before me.

You finally came.

I looked at it.

“You wanted me.”

Yes.

“Why?”

Because you are the strongest vessel.

I shook my head.

“No.”

You carry three bloodlines.

“I carry something else.”

What?

I smiled.

“Choice.”

The creature attacked.

Darkness swallowed me.

But I didn’t fight.

I remembered my father.

His kindness.

My mother’s sacrifice.

Mira’s friendship.

Damon’s regret.

Kael’s love.

Every person who had chosen me.

The darkness weakened.

The Shadow Wolf screamed.

Stop!

I raised my hand.

“I am not your vessel.”

Silver light appeared.

“I am your prison.”

The darkness cracked.

The creature tried to escape.

I pulled it closer.

“You wanted my blood.”

I closed my fist.

“Now you’re trapped inside it.”

The Shadow Wolf screamed.

Then disappeared.