Then, footsteps. Heavy. Deliberate.

The torches flickered as a massive silhouette filled the cave entrance. Kars stood there, his expression unreadable, the three horns on his head casting jagged shadows against the wall behind him.

The atmosphere shifted instantly. The playful tension evaporated, replaced by something cold and heavy. Santana's hand froze mid-throw, the pebble slipping from his fingers and clattering against the stone floor.

Wamuu straightened immediately, his back rigid, arms snapping to his sides.