Crimson Bonds

Chapter 13: Hunter in the Dark

The wind howled as Babe and Billy made their way down a quiet, dimly lit street. The night felt different-heavier, like the city itself was holding its breath. The Council's influence loomed over them, but tonight, something else stirred in the shadows.

Babe had been on edge since his conversation with Krit. The doubt in his best friend's eyes haunted him. He couldn't shake the feeling that everyone around him was starting to pull away. Even Billy, with all his teasing and flirtation, seemed more on guard lately. The world felt as if it were shifting beneath his feet, and the Blood Moon hadn't even risen yet.

As they walked, Billy's voice broke the silence. "You've been quiet since last night. Still thinking about Krit?"

Babe sighed, his hands buried deep in his pockets. "Yeah. He's... scared. I mean, I get it. I'm scared, too. But it feels like everyone's waiting for me to screw up."

Billy stopped, turning to face him. His expression was softer than usual, a rare glimpse of vulnerability showing beneath the tough exterior. "You won't screw up. You've got me. You've got Elara. And even if Krit's freaked out, he's still your friend."

Babe smiled weakly, appreciating Billy's attempt to ease his worries, but the knot in his chest remained. "I hope you're right."

As they started walking again, Billy's phone buzzed in his pocket. He glanced at it, his brows furrowing as he read the message.

"Something wrong?" Babe asked, noticing the shift in Billy's demeanor.

Billy shook his head slightly, though his expression remained tense. "It's nothing. Just Council business."

Babe's curiosity was piqued, but he didn't press. He had learned over time that Billy's dealings with the Council were complicated, and pushing him for answers usually got him nowhere. Still, the unease gnawing at him refused to fade.

They continued walking in silence, but the quiet didn't last long. A sudden rustling sound from the alleyway ahead caught their attention. Both of them stopped in their tracks, their senses immediately on high alert.

"Did you hear that?" Babe whispered, his eyes scanning the darkness.

Billy nodded, his stance shifting into a more defensive posture. "Stay close."

Babe's heart raced as they moved toward the alley, the air around them thick with tension. He could feel his blood magic stirring beneath his skin, reacting to the adrenaline pumping through his veins. Something was out there-something dangerous.

As they approached the mouth of the alley, a figure stepped out of the shadows. He was tall, his face hidden beneath a hood, but the air of menace around him was unmistakable. Babe's stomach twisted in recognition, even though he had never seen the man before. This wasn't a random encounter. This man was here for a reason.

Billy's entire body tensed, his eyes narrowing as he took a step forward, placing himself protectively in front of Babe. "Who the hell are you?"

The man didn't respond immediately. Instead, he took a slow, deliberate step closer, his hand resting on the hilt of a long, gleaming blade strapped to his waist. When he finally spoke, his voice was cold, emotionless.

"I've been looking for you, Patchanon."

Babe's blood ran cold. The way the man said Billy's name-like it was personal, like it carried centuries of hatred-sent a chill down his spine.

Billy's eyes darkened, a flash of recognition crossing his face. "You've got to be kidding me."

Babe stepped forward, his voice tense. "Billy, who is this guy?"