Darkwood: The Crimson Cavalier

Unseen Allies Pt. 2

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The morning sun barely pierced through the dense canopy of the forest surrounding Sterling's secluded cabin. The air was crisp, and the silence was occasionally broken by the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves.

Sterling stood in the clearing behind the cabin, his milky white eyes staring intently at Onyx. Beside him, Artemis perched on a branch, its keen eyes observing everything.

"Focus, Onyx," Sterling instructed. "Feel the presence of the demon inside you. Understand it, but do not let it control you."

Onyx nodded, sweat beading on his forehead. He closed his eyes, trying to concentrate. The Eldritch demon, Achelios, stirred within him, a dormant yet menacing presence.

"Imagine a barrier between you and the demon," Sterling continued. "You must establish control, or it will consume you."

Xul stood nearby, his arms crossed and a scowl on his face. Despite his grumpiness, he was there to assist in the training. His protective instincts were always on high alert, especially with Wei around.

"You're not concentrating hard enough," Xul grumbled. "If you don't take this seriously, the demon will tear you apart."

Onyx opened his eyes, frustration evident. "I'm trying! It's not easy."

Xul rolled his eyes. "Nobody said it would be. But if you want to survive, you have to push harder."

Ren watched from the sidelines, his expression a mix of concern and encouragement. He knew Onyx was struggling, but he also believed in his friend's strength.

Deep in the shadows of the forest, Tixo, a tabaxi rogue thief in his human form, crouched low among the bushes. His keen eyes, one green and one gold, took in the scene before him. He had been stalking the area for a while, drawn by the unusual activities of this group.

Tixo's attention was particularly drawn to Wei, the siren with bird-like features and a gentle demeanor. There was something about Wei's quiet grace and the protective presence of Xul that intrigued Tixo. He watched as Wei moved, his curiosity growing with each passing moment.

Tixo's fingers brushed the twin sai at his side, a habit whenever he felt on edge. The weapons were a part of him, as natural as his own limbs. He shifted his position for a better view, causing a twig to snap under his paw.

Xul's head whipped around at the sound. His eyes narrowed, and without a word, he started toward the source of the noise.

Tixo realized he had been spotted and prepared to flee. But Xul was quick, his instincts honed by years of training. He leaped forward, ready to attack the intruder.

"Stop!" Xul shouted, his voice a low growl.

Tixo froze, his eyes wide and alert. He raised his hands in a gesture of surrender, but his muscles were tensed, ready to spring into action if necessary.