A faint smile appeared on Adrien's face. "Yes, you're right", he finally said. "I think all of this is true".

After saying that, he was silent for a long time, his head low, his fingers clenched around the staff.

"Until a few hours ago I thought that Darkness magic was evil and forbidden...", Adrien whispered. "And now, I am learning that it comes natural to me... that it belongs to me. It's... a lot to take".

"I understand that", Val smiled, soothing. "And I understand that you might need time to let this sink. If at any point you wish to speak to me about this, please, as always, I am here for you".

"Thank you", Adrien said. He rolled the staff between the palms of his hands for a while, then he looked up at Val again. "It's just -- what am I to do with this? I mean -- how am I going to explain this to my mom...".

"I see what you mean", Val said, his gaze low and lost. "Some might understand, but most will treat you like a murderer without even knowing you".