Where the Dark Stands Still

The Leszy brews Liska a cup of chamomile tea, and Jaga curls up in her lap in the form of a cat. He tells her not to blame herself for what happened to her father: “It’s not your fault that these days no one knows what to do with people like you” (140). After her father’s death, the rumors about Liska grew, and she became as “docile and pious and helpful” as possible to avoid suspicion (140). The Leszy asks why she wants to return to a home where she has to hide parts of herself, and she answers that it’s the only place she belongs. He understands because he used to long for a home and a community when he was her age.

The following day, Liska and the Leszy resume her combat training. She is suddenly struck by the realization of how long he has fought to protect humanity and thanks him. He is deeply touched but quickly resumes their training exercises. The Leszy tells her that silver weapons are more powerful if they are given names, so she decides to call her dagger Onegdaj, which means “the past.”

Liska has been in the Driada for over a month.