The Hidden World

Ethan stood frozen at the entrance of the warehouse, his pulse hammering in his ears. Dozens of eyes locked onto him—some curious, some cautious, and a few downright hostile.

"What the hell have I walked into?"

Lena nudged him forward. "Don't just stand there looking dumb. You wanted answers, right?"

Ethan forced his legs to move, stepping further inside. The warehouse was massive, lit by overhead industrial lights. Makeshift cots and supply crates lined the walls, and Ethan could hear the faint hum of machines running in the background.

It wasn't just a hideout.

It was a headquarters.

The Leader Appears

Before Ethan could speak, a voice boomed from the far end of the room.

"So, this is the new pup?"

Ethan turned to see a towering figure walking toward them. He was a broad-shouldered man in his early forties, with short silver hair, a scar running down his jaw, and piercing red eyes that practically burned.

Lena crossed her arms. "Ethan, meet Kieran. He's in charge here."

Kieran stopped a few feet away, looking Ethan up and down like he was sizing up prey. "You're the half-blood that's got the full-bloods sniffing around, huh?"

Ethan clenched his jaw. "You tell me. I didn't ask to be attacked."

Kieran smirked. "You didn't ask to be born half-goblin either, but here you are."

Ethan's fists tightened. "Then start talking. What am I? What's happening to me?"

Kieran nodded approvingly. "Straight to the point. Good." He folded his arms. "Here's the short version, kid. You're half-goblin—part human, part something... older. And stronger."

Ethan swallowed. He had already suspected that much, but hearing it out loud still made his stomach twist.

"Why now?" Ethan asked. "I've been normal my whole life. Why is this happening now?"

Lena cut in. "Because you're awakening. Half-bloods don't always show their abilities right away. Sometimes it takes a trigger—an injury, extreme stress... or just the right age."

Kieran nodded. "And now that you're waking up, you're a target."

Ethan frowned. "Target for who?"

Kieran's expression darkened. "The pureblood clans. The ones who believe half-bloods like you shouldn't exist."

A chill ran through Ethan's spine.

"So that guy who attacked me..."

Lena nodded. "He was testing you. And if you don't learn to control your power fast... the next one won't just test you."

Ethan exhaled sharply. His life had changed overnight, and now he was part of some hidden war between goblin bloodlines?

It was insane.

But deep down, he knew there was no running from this.

"Alright," Ethan said, looking Kieran in the eye. "Then teach me how to fight."

A slow grin spread across Kieran's face.

"That's what I wanted to hear."