Their next destination was the fortress city of Varnen a ruined stronghold where portals opened like festering wounds. The Shadow Guild had taken control of it, enslaving lesser Awakened and selling their abilities to the highest bidder.
Kai's group entered under disguise, cloaks drawn, weapons hidden. The streets were filled with black market traders, mercenaries, and deserters. The stench of fear hung heavy in the air.
Mira led the infiltration, moving through the alleys with the grace of a ghost. Sophie, despite her gentle heart, learned to keep her hood low and her gaze sharp. Zara, ever proud, chafed at pretending to be weak.
When they finally reached the guild's inner compound, Kai froze. In a cage at the center of the hall was a child—eyes glowing faintly with power, chained like an animal.
"Another Ascendant," whispered Mira.
The child's energy resonated with Kai's own. It wasn't human… not fully. And that terrified him.
Before they could plan, the guild's leader appeared—the same masked man from before. His voice dripped with mockery.
"Welcome back, Kai Ryu. The Overmind speaks highly of you."
At the mention of that name, Kai's power surged uncontrollably. The ground cracked beneath him as orange light flared from his veins. He lunged forward, blades of energy forming in his hands. The fight was swift, brutal. The air filled with the sound of shattering steel and screams
When it was over, the guild lay in ruins. Kai freed the child, but the boy only looked up at him and whispered, "You're becoming it… just like me."
Kai's blood ran cold.