Shadow of the Hunt

Kilua carried Alluka through the forest, her unconscious form cradled securely in his arms. Her earlier display of Nanika's power had saved them, but it left a bitter taste in Kilua's mouth. He hated relying on that terrifying force—it always felt like a gamble, a power he couldn't fully control or protect.

Finding a small clearing, Kilua set Alluka down gently, leaning her against a tree. He checked her pulse and breathing, relief washing over him as he confirmed she was unharmed.

"Alluka," he murmured, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You did it again. You protected me… but at what cost?"

A rustling sound behind him shattered the moment of quiet. Kilua shot to his feet, his aura flaring to life.

"Who's there?" he demanded, his voice sharp.

From the shadows emerged a figure Kilua hadn't expected to see so soon: Hisoka.

"You again," Kilua growled, his body tensing.

Hisoka grinned, his playful demeanor a stark contrast to the dark forest. "My, my, Kilua. You've been busy. That little display of power was quite something."

Kilua's fists clenched. "Stay away from her."

Hisoka raised his hands in mock surrender, though his smirk never faltered. "Relax, dear boy. I'm not here to fight—not yet, at least. I'm merely… intrigued."

"I don't care what you're intrigued by," Kilua snapped. "If you come near her, I'll end you."

Hisoka's laughter echoed through the trees. "Such fire. I love it." His expression shifted, becoming more serious. "But you should know, Kilua, you're not the only one interested in Alluka. There are forces at play far beyond your comprehension."

Kilua narrowed his eyes. "What do you mean?"

Hisoka leaned against a nearby tree, his tone almost casual. "Those men who attacked you—they're not just random bounty hunters. They're part of something bigger, something that's been watching your family for a long time."

Kilua's stomach tightened. "What are you talking about?"

"The Zoldyck name carries weight, but it also carries a target," Hisoka continued. "And Alluka? She's the crown jewel. Her power… it's something people would kill—and die—for."

Kilua stepped closer, his aura sparking with electricity. "Why are you telling me this?"

"Because I like you, Kilua," Hisoka said with a sly smile. "You're strong, resourceful, and, most importantly, unpredictable. Watching you struggle against the odds is… entertaining."

Kilua's glare hardened. "If you're not here to help, then leave. I don't have time for your games."

Hisoka chuckled, pushing off the tree. "Oh, but I am helping, in my own way. Consider this a warning—and a challenge. The path ahead is treacherous, and you'll need every ounce of strength and cunning to survive. I'll be watching."

Without waiting for a response, Hisoka disappeared into the shadows, leaving Kilua alone with his thoughts.

"Alluka," he whispered, turning back to his sister.

She stirred, her eyes fluttering open. "Kilua?"

He knelt beside her, relief flooding his voice. "I'm here. Are you okay?"

Alluka nodded weakly, her small hand reaching for his. "I'm sorry… I didn't mean to scare you."

Kilua shook his head, his expression softening. "You didn't scare me. You saved me. But you don't have to do it alone, okay? We're in this together."

Tears welled in Alluka's eyes as she nodded. "I trust you, Kilua."

He hugged her tightly, his resolve hardening. No matter what dangers lay ahead, he would protect Alluka. He would fight, outsmart, and outlast anyone who dared threaten her.

As the siblings rested, the forest around them seemed to hold its breath, the shadows whispering of challenges yet to come.

..............

"Don't miss the chance to get advanced chapters of my novel for FREE! Just copy the link now and start reading!"

https://shorturl.at/3DZhG