(Dear readers here's the continuation of the chapter. Enjoy~)
"You're really here. Alive. Looking so different," Lana says again, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"It's really me," I reply softly, watching her closely.
She nods, her eyes distant, not quite focusing on me. The shock of seeing me again after all these years has clearly rattled her.
"You're going after them, aren't you?" she asks in a hushed tone, her eyes finally meeting mine.
I nod once, the determination clear in my expression.
"I've heard whispers and rumors that some of them had died, but I haven't found it on the news. I was hoping it was true. I was wishing it was me who had the strength to do it," she confesses, her voice filled with regret.
A small smile tugs at my lips. "Your strength comes from somewhere different. Somewhere more pure. Mine? Mine is hollowed out and filled with darkness, Lana. I'm taking a huge risk by coming here."
