Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Nirvana

As Raven strained his senses, the slithering noise grew louder and more pronounced, encircling him like a predator preparing to strike. 

A shiver ran down his spine monetarily, but he refused to succumb to fear as if he was prey to some unknown existence. He knew he had to face whatever awaited him. Even if others had failed to return alive. The stakes were too high for him to falter.

In a fluid motion, Raven drew his sword, its blade emanating a faint ethereal luminescence. Firmly gripping the hilt, he assumed a defensive stance, poised to face the unseen enemy.

Elia, too, readied herself for combat, but like Raven, she struggled to sense any tangible presence. In fact, she found herself at even more disadvantage due to her less acute senses when compared to Raven. 

With each passing moment, the invisible presence drew closer, its sinister aura sending chills. The temperature plummeted unexpectedly.