"Leave?" The shade scoffs before breaking out into harsh laughter. "I have always been there, in the back of his mind. I am his doubts. His fears. One could sooner banish one's shadow."

It steps forward, sneering at Felih as it looms over the pair of them. The energy in the staff continues to build. "Aren't you merely a comfort creature to him? If I erase you, 'twill unburden his heart."

Hades breath catches and he throws his arms protectively around Felih, staring up at his shade with wild eyes.

"No. No! I'll not lose more than I already have!"