The journey to the next tamer enclave was long and treacherous, taking Hiro and Lina deeper into the wilderness than they had ever been before. Thorne, whose knowledge of the hidden tamers was invaluable, guided them through dense forests and over rugged mountains. His falcon scouted ahead, always vigilant for any sign of danger.
The air grew colder as they traveled, and the land became more desolate. This was a place where few dared to go, a land untouched by civilization. But Thorne had heard rumors, whispers of a small group of tamers who had been hiding here for generations, their bonds with their beasts stronger than any in the known world.
"They're secretive," Thorne warned as they approached a narrow valley. "They don't trust outsiders, especially now with the gods growing restless. But if we can convince them to join us, they'll be a powerful ally."
Hiro nodded, his wolf and bear flanking him as they moved deeper into the valley. "We'll make them see the truth."
As they reached the entrance to the enclave, they were met by a group of tamers, each accompanied by beasts that seemed more wild and untamed than any Hiro had ever seen. The leader of the group, a young man with piercing green eyes and a jaguar at his side, stepped forward.
"What do you want?" the man asked, his voice low and wary.
"We've come to offer you an alliance," Hiro said, stepping forward. "The gods are coming for us all. We need to stand together."
The man's eyes flicked to Hiro's wolf and bear, his gaze lingering on the faint glow in their eyes, the mark of the power Hiro had unlocked. "And why should we trust you?"
Hiro met his gaze steadily. "Because I've already fought the gods' servants. I've faced them, and I've won."
The tamers murmured among themselves, clearly intrigued by Hiro's words. But the leader remained skeptical.
"The gods are not to be trifled with," he said. "We've survived this long by staying hidden. Why should we risk everything to fight them now?"
"Because they won't stop," Hiro replied, his voice firm. "You can hide for a time, but eventually, they will find you. They've already sent an angel after me. Next time, they'll send more. And when they do, you'll need allies."
The leader hesitated, his eyes narrowing as he considered Hiro's words. Finally, he nodded slowly. "Come inside. We'll hear what you have to say."