CHAPTER 3 : Crossing into the realm
408 Words
The city buzzed beneath her feet, neon lights reflecting off wet asphalt. But May barely noticed. Her chest heaved, adrenaline still screaming through her veins. The B-rank monster lay crushed in a pile of debris, Zayn's shadows retracting like smoke back into him.
You can't stay here, Zayn said, calm but firm. "Not after tonight. Too many are coming."
May's knees wobbled. "You mean... I have to leave New York? Just like that?"
"Yes," he said. "The monsters will keep coming. You're not ready yet. But you will be — if you train in the Veiled Realm."
Her stomach twisted. "And... Ethan?"
Zayn's eyes softened slightly. "He needs treatment. He'll be safe... for now."
May helped Ethan into the waiting ambulance. Paramedics worked quickly, checking his bruises, cuts, and minor fractures.
"I can't believe this... all I did was walk with you..." Ethan's voice trembled. "And this... almost killed me."
May gripped his hand tightly. "I'm sorry. I couldn't save you before, but I promise I'll come back. I have to. I have to get stronger, or this will happen to everyone I love."
Ethan swallowed hard. "Just... survive. Come back to me. Please."
"I will," she whispered, tears threatening. She watched as the paramedics wheeled him inside the hospital. The doors closed, leaving her with a hollow ache, but determination burning in her chest.
Zayn stepped forward, shadows curling around his feet, forming a twisting portal.
"Ready?" he asked.
May hesitated, one last glance at the hospital. Then she nodded.
The world bent around her. Neon lights and asphalt dissolved, replaced by floating towers, glowing rivers of energy, and ancient structures that defied gravity. The air thrummed with power, like the heartbeat of a living world.
This... is this real?she whispered.
Yes, Zayn said. "Welcome to the Veiled Realm."
Four figures waited in the courtyard, each emanating power. Their eyes, sharp and curious, assessed her immediately.
Xander — sparks of fire dancing across his fingertips
K — grounded, arms crossed, eyes unreadable
Ze — calm, flowing energy, watching silently
Zayn — standing protectively beside her, tense but alert.
"Meet your team," Zayn said. "They'll train with you. You'll need each other if you hope to survive what's coming."
May folded her arms, meeting their gazes with equal intensity. Hot-headed, stubborn — she wouldn't back down.
"You all look... scary," she muttered.
"Scary? We are in danger," Xander said dryly, sparks flickering.
May smirked. "Good. I like danger."
- Writer
