"But her family isn't your father," Shadow reasoned. "Your father could barely be called your own family. The only thing that ties you is blood. I'm your family. Just like you're mine. And yes, I realize the fact that we are cousins but that's besides the point. I think you need to tell her what you suspect."

Shadow could feel that Valyn was reluctant to share any of this with Shana. It was a lot to take and Shadow could only imagine Shana's expression if he did indeed tell her they were related. "If you don't want to tell her... then the least you can do is take her aside and let her down gently. Tell her she's a beautiful girl but with everything that has happened you'd be more comfortable being friends. If she still demands a reason say that you're in love with an elven girl back home. And if you're truly desperate... you could always say something about... well, us."