Chapter 7 – Shadows GrowWe set up camp in the hollow shell of a burned-out tavern. I sat with my soldier standing guard at the doorway, its glowing eyes fixed on the street.
Nalos leaned back against the wall, chewing on something dried and sour-smelling.
"You're awfully calm," I muttered. "We nearly got eaten."
"Nearly doesn't matter," he replied. "Alive is alive."
I studied him. For the first time, he wasn't smirking. He looked… tired.
"Why are you here?" I asked.
Nalos glanced at me, then looked away. "Same reason as everyone. Survive long enough to matter."
The firelight flickered across his face. I knew he was holding back more, but I didn't push. Not yet.
Instead, I looked at my soldier. Stronger now. Obedient. And it was mine.
[ Shadow Army: 1 ]
[ Authority Progress: 3% ]
It wasn't much. But it was a start.
[End OF CHAPTER]-7