Chapter 30: A Fateful Encounter
The group continued their journey, the two shards of the Light Core safely tucked away. The forest began to thin, and the air grew lighter, but the tension among them remained.
As they reached the edge of the forest, they came across a small village, its buildings weathered but intact. Smoke rose from chimneys, and the sound of laughter filled the air.
"A village?" Min Jae said, raising an eyebrow. "Didn't expect to see civilization out here."
Jin Soo frowned. "It's too quiet. Stay alert."
They entered the village cautiously, their hands on their weapons. The villagers greeted them warmly, offering food and shelter. Despite their hospitality, something felt off.
"Why would anyone live this close to the Shadow Citadel?" Eun Ha whispered as they sat around a table in the village square.
Before anyone could answer, a young girl approached them. Her eyes were wide with fear, and her voice trembled as she spoke. "You have to leave," she said. "It's not safe here."
"What do you mean?" Jin Soo asked, his heart sinking.
"They're coming," she said, her voice barely audible. "The shadows. They come every night."
As if on cue, the sky darkened, and the laughter of the villagers faded. The air grew heavy, and the sound of footsteps echoed through the streets.
"They're here," the girl whispered.
Jin Soo and the others stood, their weapons at the ready. From the shadows emerged figures cloaked in black, their red eyes glowing like embers. At their head was the cloaked figure from the forest, their presence radiating power.
"Welcome to our domain," the figure said, their voice cold and mocking.
The group braced themselves for the battle to come.
To Be Continue.......