Companion Of Darkness -ch. 9- By Berkili4

Voss argues that every "Companion of Darkness" throughout history starts as a protector, then becomes a lover, and finally, when the human can no longer bear the weight of life, the Companion consumes them completely, turning the human into a black hole of silence. Kaelen doesn't deny it. He simply looks at Elara and says, "I would rather be the quiet than let you die alone."

This opening line sets the tone for the entire chapter. Berkili4 masterfully uses sensory deprivation to amplify grief. Elara is not crying; she is catatonic. She walks through the ashes of her home while Kaelen, reduced to a flickering silhouette the size of a dog, drags himself behind her. Companion of Darkness -Ch. 9- By Berkili4