Screams from the Abyss

Rising Storm

The ground trembled beneath their feet as another explosion rocked the facility in the distance. Jaden squinted against the harsh light of the flames, visible even through the dense forest canopy.

"We need to check it out," he said, turning to face the group. The escapees huddled together, their unstable forms flickering in and out of focus.

Mei shook her head. "Too risky. We should use this chance to put more distance between us and them."

"And go where?" Ryker countered. "For all we know, that explosion could be the start of something worse. We need intel."

Jaden nodded. "Ryker's right. I'll lead a small team to scout the area. The rest of you, find somewhere defensible and wait for us."

After a brief argument, it was decided. Jaden would go with Ryker and one of the more stable escapees, a girl named Tara who could manipulate electrical currents.

As they set out, Jaden felt the familiar burn in his muscles. The past few days of intense training had left him sore but stronger. He mo