Chapter 42: Convictions
Standing a good distance from Damien was his familiar shadow frame, with smoky tendrils dancing around its body like flames. The dark expanse still had the same chilly aura as before—from the glistening water on the ground forming a black mirror that reflected the raven sky above to the never-ending space stretching out into the dark horizon.
The only difference was the lack of the different colored flames and the glowing gem.
However, despite their absence, Damien could see everything inside the inky domain clearly—especially the shadow. Just like last time, he looked a lot like Damien—from top to bottom, the shape of his body, frame, and muscle—everything.
Everything except the fiery tendrils coming from him the same way aura was oozing out of Brandon a while ago.
Just then, realization hit Damien like a brick and he turned his head around, hoping his assumption wasn’t true. But when he couldn’t see any sign of his teammates and opponents anywhere around him, reality struck him like lightning.
’Am I dead?’
"No, you’re not dead," replied his voice loudly.
Damien stilled as the voice echoed around him. He was sure he didn’t open his mouth to speak, and the last time he had tried talking to the shadow, it never replied.
’Am I hallucinating? Is this a dream?’
"You’re not hallucinating and this isn’t a dream. This is happening."
This time Damien was sure of it. The shadow spoke.