"Aarrgghh!"
Kayden let out a raw, agonizing scream as he clutched his head in pain. The sound echoed through the forest like a warning bell. His entire body tensed, muscles seizing as if something inside him was tearing apart.
Helena's breath caught in her throat, panic gripping her chest. She had no idea what was happening to him or why he was in so much pain. All she could do was watch in horror as a black tattoo suddenly appeared on his forehead, pulsing with dark energy.
"Kayden!" she screamed, her voice cracking as she grabbed his trembling body. She held him tightly, afraid he might break apart or vanish if she let go. Her heart thundered with helpless fear, unsure how to make the pain stop.
Valen and the others, who had been held back by the magic barrier, finally managed to reach the river. Their footsteps were heavy with urgency as they rushed through the trees. The moment the magical interference faded, they sprinted forward without hesitation.
