The next morning, Asher and Rayla walked across campus hand-in-hand, their laughter light and carefree, their shoulders brushing with every step. The morning sun cast a golden glow over the sprawling lawns, and for a moment, everything felt perfect—until a raucous cheer erupted from the football field.
Asher’s steps slowed, his grip on Rayla’s hand tightening instinctively.
A crowd had gathered along the sidelines, students packed together, whistling and clapping as three figures darted across the field with effortless precision. The ball moved between them like it was part of their bodies—quick passes, sharp turns, a perfectly timed fake-out that sent an imaginary opponent stumbling.
The young hunters.
Mark, Pierce, and Daniel moved like they’d been playing together their whole li
