Kain’s boots struck the ground with a steady rhythm as he followed Selene toward the distant spires. The dark sky above churned with low-hanging clouds, shot through with veins of violet lightning. The pulse beneath the ground mirrored the flicker of light above, creating an eerie synchronicity that made his skin crawl.


    Selene walked a few paces ahead, her silver hair shifting with the cold breeze. Despite the dried blood on her clothes, her posture was straight, composed. Her violet eyes scanned the path ahead with practiced efficiency.


    Kain’s gaze drifted to her back. Not an ordinary survivor. Her balance, the ease with which she walked despite her injuries—it all pointed to training.


    “You’re quiet,” Selene said without looking back.


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    “I don’t waste words,” Kain replied.


    She smiled faintly. “A rare trait.”


    Kain’s eyes narrowed as they crested a ridge. Below them, a collection of stone and wood structures clustered beneath the jagged spires. Black smoke curled from chimneys, and a crooked wall of sharpened logs surrounded the perimeter. At least a dozen guards in mismatched armor patrolled the walls, some carrying spears, others with rusted swords or crossbows.


    A battered wooden sign hung over the entrance.


    > [Black Hollow]


    Population: 347


    Faction Affiliation: None


    Threat Level: Moderate


    “They don’t look welcoming,” Kain said.


    Selene’s smile didn’t fade. “They’re suspicious of outsiders. The wilds have made them cautious.”


    “And you think walking me through the front gate will go over well?”


    Her eyes glinted. “That depends on how much trouble you plan to cause.”


    Kain’s smirk widened. “No promises.”


    Selene started down the slope. Kain followed, keeping his senses sharp.