The Ancient Darkness Awakens

Kira's POV

Time appeared to freeze as the shadow moved silently over the battlefield. Shadows coiled around its figure, obscuring any details and leaving only a faintly human-like silhouette visible. The air became chilly, our breath appearing in abrupt bursts of white mist even though it had been warm just moments earlier.

I was unable to move. None of us were able to. We remained still, observing as this... creature advanced towards Asher and the golden-eyed wolves with smooth, eerie elegance.

Ryker was the first to escape the paralysis. He sprang ahead with a fierce growl, claws outstretched—only to sail right through the figure as if it were composed of mist. He faltered, confused, then faced me with eyes wide open that showed a raw fear I had never noticed in him prior.

"What is this thing?" Marcus murmured next to me, his voice hardly distinguishable.