Chapter 71: The Shadows in the Storm

The storm intensified as night fell over New Haven. Winds howled like banshees, and the rain pounded against the mansion's windows, creating an incessant drumming that kept everyone on edge. Lightning flashed intermittently, illuminating the valley and casting strange, flickering shadows across the landscape.

George stood in the mansion's war room, a map of Pleasant Valley spread across the table. Around him, his trusted team prepared for the worst. Jackie loaded her rifle with practiced efficiency, while Stephanie sharpened her sword. Raven, despite her recent recovery, inspected her katana with quiet determination.

"This storm isn't natural," Akari said, breaking the tense silence. She stood by the window, her glowing hands pressed against the glass as she murmured an incantation under her breath. "I can feel them out there. They're moving with the wind, feeding on the life in the valley."