The Untold Truth \ Ateez

Chapter 26: The Enemy's Whisper

The air was thick with tension as the group approached the edge of a dense, foreboding forest. The trees loomed like sentinels, their twisted branches casting long, shadowy fingers across the path. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant call of a night bird. Every step forward felt like a descent into darkness, the weight of their mission growing heavier with each passing moment.

They had been pursuing the enemy for days, tracking them through rugged terrain and treacherous landscapes. The trail had been cold at times, but their determination never wavered. The final clue from the Inner Sanctum had led them here, to this desolate place where they hoped to find answers—or at least a lead that would bring them closer to their goal.

As they moved deeper into the forest, a faint light appeared in the distance. It flickered like a dying ember, barely visible through the thick undergrowth. Hongjoong raised his hand, signaling the group to halt. His eyes narrowed as he surveyed the area, his instincts on high alert.

"That's got to be them," he whispered, his voice low but resolute. "We're close."

Seonghwa, always the strategist, stepped forward, his mind already working through the possible scenarios. "We need to approach with caution. There could be traps or more enemies lying in wait."

Yeosang nodded in agreement, his keen eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of movement. "I'll scout ahead," he offered, his voice calm despite the tension that hung in the air.

San placed a hand on Yeosang's shoulder, a gesture of both reassurance and warning. "Be careful. We don't know what we're walking into."

With a nod, Yeosang melted into the shadows, his movements silent and swift. The rest of the group waited, their breaths held as they watched him disappear into the darkness. The minutes dragged on, each one feeling like an eternity. Finally, Yeosang returned, his expression grim.

"There's one of them up ahead," he reported. "Looks like a lower-ranking agent. He's alone, but he doesn't seem worried. Almost like he's expecting us."

"That's because he probably is," Mingi muttered, his hand tightening around the hilt of his weapon. "They've been one step ahead of us this whole time."

Hongjoong's jaw clenched. "Then it's time we catch up. Let's move."

The group advanced with cautious precision, every muscle tensed, every sense heightened. As they neared the clearing, they could see the enemy agent standing by a small fire. He was a wiry man, his features sharp and eyes cold. He didn't flinch as they approached, merely watched them with a twisted smile that sent a shiver down their spines.

"Well, well," the agent drawled, his voice dripping with malice. "The mighty heroes finally arrive."

Hongjoong stepped forward, his eyes locked on the man. "Where are they?" he demanded, his voice like steel.

The agent chuckled, a sound that grated on their nerves. "Straight to the point, I see. But where's the fun in that? Let's talk for a while. I've been dying for some company."

San's fists clenched at his sides, his anger barely contained. "We're not here to chat. Tell us where they are, or you won't live long enough to regret it."

The agent's smile widened, his eyes gleaming with twisted delight. "Touchy, aren't we? But fine, I'll indulge you. It's not like you can do anything about it now."

He took a step closer, his gaze sweeping over each member of the group before settling back on Hongjoong. "They're alive if that's what you're wondering. But for how long? Well, that's up to you."

Jongho's hand went to the hilt of his sword, his knuckles white with the effort it took to keep himself in check. "What do you mean by that?" he growled.