"Follow me, rogue hunter," he said, the smirk never leaving his face. "Let's see if you're as skilled as they say."
Xavion stood without a word, his movements controlled and deliberate. He glanced back at me briefly, something unreadable passing between us before he turned and followed him out of the tavern. I wanted to protest, to tell him I should fight instead, but I knew Xavion. He wouldn't have let me. His eyes had said enough.
I rose from my seat, following a few paces behind as we stepped out into the cool evening air. The town's energy had shifted even more. The streets were quieter now, most of the shops already closed, the flickering lamplights casting long shadows across the narrow roads. But there was an undercurrent of excitement, a quiet buzz that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
