The sun hung low, casting long shadows across the twisting forest of the Eastern Wilds.
Arka, Liora, and the silver-furred beast companion moved cautiously, senses alert for any trace of Cult of Shadows.
"Their presence lingers," Liora whispered.
"The Wilds themselves are wary."
The wolf stirred inside him.
"Not all threats are seen," it warned.
"Some grow in silence, waiting for weakness."
✦ The Hidden Cave
Following faint traces of corrupted Seal energy, they arrived at a cliffside, half-hidden by overgrown vines.
A narrow entrance led into darkness.
"The cave… it radiates a fragment of ancient Seal power," Liora said.
"This is not just a trial. It's a revelation."
Arka's aura flared, and he entered first, senses extending through the shadows.
Inside, the walls were etched with symbols older than any recorded history, glowing faintly silver and crimson.
"These… are memories," the wolf said.
"Of the Star Wolves before you."
✦ Echoes of the Past
Visions erupted around them:
Star Wolves battling the first corrupted cults.
Ancient beasts lending power to worthy heirs.
Hidden Seals scattered across mortal and divine realms.
Arka absorbed the knowledge, feeling his connection to the Eastern Wilds deepen.
"This… this is power beyond the fragment," he muttered.
"I can feel the growth, the unity of beast and Seal."
The wolf purred.
"And yet… every power has a cost. Remember it well."
✦ Ambush of the Cult
Before Arka could fully process the revelation, shadows coalesced into forms members of the Cult of Shadows, led by Varion's lieutenants.
"You think you can claim the Wilds?" one hissed.
"The Star Wolf is only a legend!"
Arka's aura erupted, silver-gold-crimson flames weaving around him and his beast companion.
"I am no legend. I am reality."
The battle was swift and brutal.
Beasts from the Eastern Wilds, previously hidden, sensed Arka's dominance and joined the fight.
Liora unleashed protective and offensive spells in perfect synchrony.
The cultists were overwhelmed, retreating into the shadows with a warning:
"This is not over, Star Wolf. The true enemy waits beyond the horizon."
✦ Unlocking the Hidden Seal
After the battle, Arka approached the core of the cave.
A small, pulsating orb floated above an ancient pedestal a fragment of the Hidden Seal, untouched for centuries.
"This fragment will strengthen your connection with both beasts and Seals," Liora said.
"But only if you truly accept your destiny as Star Wolf."
Arka reached out, letting the orb merge with his aura.
A surge of power coursed through him, heightening his senses, speed, and mental acuity.
The wolf inside him growled with satisfaction.
"You are ready," it said.
"The Eastern Wilds acknowledge their heir. But the world beyond is still in peril."
Arka exhaled, determination blazing.
"Then we move forward. The Cult of Shadows won't wait, and neither will I."