Kael's eyes darted around, shadows coiling along his arms like living snakes. The glowing eyes in the mist multiplied, dozens surrounding him and Liora. The forest seemed alive, watching, waiting for them to make a mistake.
Kael (narration): "I've survived fire, blood, and betrayal. I won't fall to whispers in the dark."
Liora stepped forward, her hands glowing with faint green light. She muttered words Kael didn't understand, and the shadows around them recoiled slightly.
Liora: "Stay close. They are drawn to your power."
Before Kael could reply, the ground shook. From the trees emerged creatures unlike any he had seen—twisted forms of humans and animals, their eyes burning with malice. They advanced silently, circling the pair.
Kael: "Looks like we're not leaving without a fight."
Shadows surged from his arms, forming dark whips that lashed out at the nearest creature. The forest exploded into chaos—roars, snapping branches, and flashes of green and black magic colliding.
Liora moved with precision, striking creatures with her radiant energy. Kael was impressed; she was strong, faster than he expected. For the first time, he felt a flicker of… respect.
Kael (narration): "She might actually survive this madness… unlike most."
The last creature fell. Silence returned, but the mist didn't clear. From the darkness, a low, echoing laugh rolled through the trees. Kael's shadow magic shivered, as if recognizing an old enemy.
Voice in the dark: "So… the cursed one walks with a healer now."
Kael's grip tightened on his dagger, eyes narrowing.
Kael: "Show yourself."
The shadows in the forest seemed to grow taller, twisting unnaturally toward the source of the voice. Liora glanced at him, tension in her face.
Liora: "We're not alone. And they know you…"
Cliffhanger.