The storm intensified as Ethan and Elena moved downhill toward a secluded path carved into the cliffs. Trees shivered under the wind, and distant thunder growled like a beast disturbed from slumber.
Elena paused,
We're being followed.
Ethan's eyes narrowed,
Same presence from earlier?
She shook her head. Stronger. Colder. Almost ancient.
They pressed on cautiously, but Ethan's instincts screamed louder with every step. When they reached a narrow ridge overlooking a waterfall, a figure stepped out from behind a dead pine.
He wore a long cloak soaked in rain. His face was concealed by a silver half-mask. But it was his aura that struck them like a hammer not Foundation Phase, not even Transcendence. Something darker.
Ethan Cross, the man said in a deep, unhurried tone. Your bloodline is rare and valuable.
Elena moved protectively beside Ethan, lightning energy coiling around her fists.
Ethan gripped his sword.
Who are you?
A collector. You may call me Corven.
Without warning, Corven vanished from sight.
Ethan barely blocked a swipe aimed at his neck. The impact sent him sliding backward across slick stone. Elena intercepted the next strike, her fists clashing with Corven's dagger-like claws.
He moved like a phantom, each blow precise, silent, and brutal. Ethan countered with Frostwind Steps, using the mist and rain to mask his own movement. Elena feinted, drawing Corven's focus for just long enough for Ethan to unleash a burst of cold Qi directly to Corven's ribs.
Corven staggered but recovered swiftly. A sinister smile tugged at his lips.
You are impressive.
But I only need your heart,
Not your praise.
He unleashed a forbidden technique a flurry of red blades that emerged from his cloak and darted through the rain like vipers.
Ethan threw up a defensive formation with the Dragon Slayer Sword, and Elena leapt above, striking several blades down mid-air with spinning kicks and bolts of inner lightning.
The clash roared for over twenty minutes. Neither side relented.
Then, Corven suddenly leapt away.
You're not yet ripe,
He muttered.
I'll return when you are.
He disappeared into the storm, leaving behind only silence.
Ethan collapsed to one knee, panting.
Elena steadied him.
You okay?
Barely.
We need to recover. And fast.
They didn't speak further. They moved swiftly through the forest, toward the nearby hidden village Seraphina had marked on their map.
But deep in Ethan's chest, the Immortal brand pulsed faintly. Not in activation but warning.