The Shadow That Watches

The Obsidian Citadel loomed around Daniel, its towering blackened walls absorbing what little light remained. The air was thick with an unnatural weight, as if the very stones whispered of those who had come before—those who had failed.

The last trial had tested his strength. He had prevailed. And yet, despite his victory, the oppressive atmosphere refused to lift.

Something was wrong.

Daniel's instincts, sharpened through countless battles, screamed a silent warning.

Something watched.

Mira, standing a few paces behind him, flicked her tail uneasily. Her golden eyes, normally filled with sharp calculation, held an unfamiliar glint of tension.

"You feel it too?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.