Chapter 70: The Search for Answers
The next day, the group set out once more, their spirits lifted by the promise of new information. They had to find the source of the darkness, and they couldn't afford to waste any more time. The journey was long and arduous, but they pressed on, knowing that each step brought them closer to their ultimate goal.
Mia stayed close to Scott, her presence offering him a sense of calm amidst the uncertainty. They had been through so much together—battles, struggles, and even moments of despair—but she had always been there for him. He couldn't imagine facing this without her by his side.
"You seem a little distracted," Mia remarked, breaking the silence between them.
Scott sighed, glancing over at her. "I'm just thinking. We've been walking for hours, and we still don't have any concrete leads. I feel like we're just chasing our tails."
Mia nodded, understanding his frustration. "It's hard not knowing where to go next. But we've gotten this far. We'll keep pushing forward. We have to."
"I know," Scott replied, his voice firm but tinged with doubt. "But every minute we waste gives the darkness more time to regroup. We can't afford to be outpaced."
Their conversation was interrupted by a shout from Derek, who had spotted something up ahead. "Hey! I think we've got company!"
The group immediately sprang into action, their senses heightened as they moved toward the source of the noise. It didn't take long to realize that they weren't alone in these woods. They had come across another group of travelers—figures cloaked in dark clothing, their presence ominous.
Scott stepped forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "Who are you?" he demanded, his voice low and commanding.
One of the cloaked figures stepped forward, his face hidden in shadow. "We're hunters," he said, his voice gravelly. "We've been tracking the same darkness you've been fighting. It's more dangerous than you realize."
Scott's eyes narrowed. "What do you want with us?"
"We're not here to fight you," the stranger replied. "We're here to offer you an alliance. The forces we're up against... they're not something you can defeat alone."
Mia stepped closer to Scott, her expression wary. "An alliance? Why should we trust you?"
The hunter's eyes flickered toward the rest of the group, sizing them up. "Because we're fighting for the same thing. To end the darkness."
After a tense moment, Scott exchanged a look with Mia. The decision wasn't easy, but they had to consider every option. "Alright," Scott said, his voice steady. "We'll listen. But we're not joining anyone's cause unless we can trust you."
The hunter gave a slight nod, and with that, the uneasy alliance was formed.