Vanguard's Ascension

Chapter 4: Allies and Enemies

Nile's exploits quickly spread through the Hunter Association, and he found himself thrust into the spotlight. Invitations to join elite teams poured in, but he remained wary. He needed allies he could trust, not just power-hungry individuals.

One day, while training in a secluded area, Nile was approached by a young woman with fiery red hair and a confident demeanor.

"You're Nile Van, right?" she asked, her eyes studying him intently.

"That's me," he replied, lowering his guard slightly. "And you are?"

"Ava Brooks," she introduced herself. "I've been watching your fights. You're different from the other Awakened."

Nile raised an eyebrow. "In what way?"

Ava smirked. "You fight like you've been doing this your whole life. Like you know what's going to happen before it does."

Nile's eyes narrowed. "And what about you? Why are you interested in me?"

Ava's expression turned serious. "Because I think we can help each other. I have a unique ability too. I can sense the presence of gates and predict their openings. But I need someone who can handle the fights."

Nile considered her offer. Having someone who could predict gate openings would be invaluable. "Alright," he said. "Let's see what we can do together."

As they trained and fought side by side, Nile and Ava developed a strong bond. They complemented each other's strengths and covered each other's weaknesses. But as they grew closer, they also attracted the attention of powerful enemies.

One night, while investigating a particularly dangerous gate, they were ambushed by a group of rogue hunters led by a man named Orion. Orion was known for his ruthless tactics and desire to control all the gates in the city.

"Well, well, if it isn't the rising star and his sidekick," Orion sneered, his eyes gleaming with malice. "Hand over your powers, and I might let you live."

Nile stepped forward, his eyes blazing with determination. "We're not here to play your games, Orion. If you want a fight, you've got one."

The battle that ensued was intense. Orion and his rogue hunters were skilled, but Nile and Ava fought with a synergy born of mutual trust and understanding. Just as it seemed they were gaining the upper hand, Orion unleashed a devastating attack, aiming directly at Ava.

In that moment, time seemed to slow. Nile's vision sharpened, and he saw multiple possible outcomes. Drawing on his Omniscient Vanguard power, he chose the one where they emerged victorious.

With a burst of energy, he intercepted Orion's attack and countered with a move so precise and powerful that it left the rogue hunter stunned. Ava seized the opportunity and incapacitated Orion with a well-placed strike.

As the dust settled, Nile helped Ava to her feet. "Are you alright?" he asked, concern etched on his face.

Ava nodded, a fierce determination in her eyes. "Yeah. Thanks to you."

Nile knew they had made a powerful enemy in Orion, but he also knew they had grown stronger as a team. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead, uncover the secrets of the Omniscient Vanguard, and protect their world from the threats that lurked beyond the gates.

To be continued...