Malachai's POV.
I try to steady my breath as I lie in wait, listening for the faintest sound of movement. The thick darkness of the still night wraps around me like a blanket - I can feel myself melting away into my surroundings, becoming one with the dense terrain around me. Somewhere deep inside, something primal - instinctive has woken up. I feel more connected to the earth beneath me than I ever have. I feel like I'm exactly where I should be. Like I'm finally following the path that was set out for me ages ago - like I'm finally living my destiny, following my true calling.
All of my senses are on high alert. I can hear the faint rustling of the leaves as the breeze whips through. I can smell the acrid, metallic scent of blood mixed with sweat in the crisp night air. I can feel the
