Take Us

The peaceful silence was broken by a sudden rustling in the bushes. Matthew's senses sharpened immediately, his arms tightening protectively around Sophia. Her body stiffened in response, and her eyes widened as the serene atmosphere shifted into something tense and foreboding.

"Did you hear that?" Sophia whispered, her voice barely audible over the soft crackle of the lanterns swaying in the breeze.

Matthew nodded, his jaw clenched. He scanned the surrounding trees, his eyes glowing with the faint shimmer of his magic. "Stay close," he said softly, moving to stand in front of her.

Before Sophia could respond, several shadows emerged from the tree line, moving with calculated precision. Human figures, clad in dark, tactical clothing, their faces obscured by masks, stepped into the clearing. Weapons gleamed in the dim light, and Sophia's heart raced as she counted at least eight of them.