Pontius's jaw dropped in shock.
Neivayka wished she could feel the same shock, but she knew… she knew why Nesha was asking for this. The Shadow was close to consuming her.... Neivayka could see it eating at Nesha's soul, and whatever Nesha was planning would cost her the last few pieces of it.
Neivayka grabbed her by her shoulders. “Nesha, you don't have to do this. I can save you… I can fight it for you. I can free you."
Nesha just smiled softly. “Neivayka, I know there is no coming back from this, this time. I can feel my animal giving into the Shadow, and I know what will happen if I do. I can only keep a grasp on it for so long. It has already fought me several times for complete control. I am no longer able to keep up the fight."
“Nesha… didn't you hear me? You don't have to. I ca
