Chapter 15: The Hunter’s Mark

As they reached the crest of the mountain, Zeryn felt a shift in the air. It was as if the world itself had taken a breath, a quiet tension that seemed to settle over them.

"We’re not alone," the leader muttered, his gaze scanning the distance. "They’re here."

Zeryn’s heart raced. The Hunters had finally found them.

In the distance, dark figures emerged from the shadows of the trees below. They were swift, like shadows themselves, moving with unnatural precision. Zeryn’s breath caught in her throat as the leader unsheathed his weapon—an intricately carved blade that glinted ominously in the light.

"Stay close," he commanded. "And don’t let your guard down. The Hunters won’t hesitate."

The green-eyed figure stepped forward, cracking their knuckles. "This is what we’ve been preparing for."

Zeryn could feel the weight of their words as the Hunters drew nearer. She was no longer just a scared girl running from her past. She was a part of something much bigger now. And she had a role to play.

Her pulse quickened, and she felt the shadows stir within her, responding to the growing danger. She wasn’t sure she could control them completely, but she wasn’t going to let the Hunters take everything from her.

The leader raised his blade and nodded to the group. "Let’s end this."