Darkfire's Decision
Arran looked at Darkfire in shock. There were many things he had feared could happen in Hillfort, but Darkfire changing his mind about joining the Shadowflame Society was something he hadn't expected.
"You're staying here? In Hillfort?" he asked again.
Liane stood up. "I'll let the two of you talk in private," she said in a muted voice. She gave Darkfire a meaningful look, then left the room.
For some moments, neither Arran nor Darkfire spoke, Arran still processing the news and Darkfire seeming almost fearful to say the words.
Finally, Darkfire let out a deep breath. "I'm staying here," he confirmed. "At least for now."
"Because of her?"
"Because of her."
"You only just met her," Arran said. "And you spent years trying to be recruited."
"You're right," Darkfire replied, an unc
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