The ground trembled again, this time more violently, as a shadow fell across the forest. Kaden's instincts screamed at him to run, but the Unseen Hunter remained still, its body tensing as if preparing for another battle. Kaden could feel the weight of something far more dangerous approaching. His headset buzzed again, and his pulse quickened.
"We're not alone," Kaden muttered, scanning the trees around him. His breath came in shallow gasps, the lingering excitement from the battle mixing with a rising dread. Whatever this new threat was, it wasn't just a wild creature—it was something else entirely.
Suddenly, the mist parted, and figures emerged from the shadows. Tall, cloaked figures, their faces hidden behind dark hoods. They moved with a fluidity that suggested they were more than just ordinary people—they were warriors, hunters, perhaps even Tamers.
Kaden's hand instinctively went to his dagger, but he knew he was no match for whatever these figures were. His connection to the Unseen Hunter was his greatest strength, but it wasn't enough to guarantee survival against unknown forces.
One of the cloaked figures stepped forward, lowering their hood. The face that emerged was pale, almost unnaturally so, with sharp, angular features. His eyes gleamed with an eerie, golden light, and his smile was cold, calculating.
"Impressive," the figure said, his voice smooth and measured. "You've defeated one of our war beasts. But that was only the beginning."
Kaden's heart skipped a beat. "Who are you?"
The figure's smile widened, his eyes gleaming with malice. "We are the Order of the Abyss. And you, Kaden Acheron, are a most intriguing specimen. The bond you share with the beasts… it's something we've been searching for."