SHORTS FROM THE SHELF features short serialized fiction by author Shannon Muir, administrator of SHANNON MUIR’S THE PULP AND MYSTERY SHELF, that may be later released as part of e-book or print collections. The story line featured currently is “Darque Into Light,” the seventh and final installment of the Myanna Moore serial, which will run over the next several weekends. This is Part Three.

Armed with her allies, and the hidden clues provided by the journal, Myanna approached the area that presumably served as Darque’s headquarters – a large rambling home miles from nearby small towns.

“Tell us how Darque came by a place like this again,” Serlas asked. “I grew up in the area but cannot place this location.”

“Edana granted it to him. It was a property owned by her father, not a primary home but a getaway property. He often leased it to people of wealth visiting here who sought privacy and a place to hide from the spotlight. After he died, Edana got all his properties as her half-brother was disinherited,” Myanna explained, then turned to Duana. “I think I got that right.”

Duana nodded.

“And since her own son Lysander also deserted her, Edana took in Darque like the son she wanted and granted him control over all her assets while in jail, or such appears to be the case.”

“Enough talking,” J.B. said, and Myanna saw his hand hovering where she knew he often carried a concealed weapon. “We need to put an end to this.”

“Trust me, I’m more than ready,” Donnell concurred.

Myanna looked over at Firinne, who remained silent all through this.

“I know you don’t really want to be here, that in fact you really don’t. But please trust me, you need to be here ”

Firinne looked over at Myanna, and the tiredness in her eyes was evident.

“My mother damaged me to never be able to live a normal life. Any skills I have for fighting are long since gone. I don’t see how I am any use to you.”

Myanna put a hand on Firinne’s shoulder.

“You were a mother to me, Firinne, even though you were lied to about my true identity. I was the child of the childhood best friend snatched from you. The answers we seek today are as much yours to receive as mine. We both need the past I brought out into the light. I’m not sure I will have the courage to hear it without you.”

“You have more courage than you ever give yourself credit for, Champ,” J.B. told her.

Myanna wasn’t sure she believed that.