[As they press on, Kaida and the others notice the strange creatures following them more closely now. At first, they appear like shadows—moving at the edges of the dim purple light—but soon, they reveal themselves. Towering figures with glowing eyes and ethereal bodies that seem to be made of the very energy of the realm itself. They are the Watchers, ancient beings tied to the Skyward's secrets.]

Kaida (whispering, drawing her sword):
"Stay sharp. They're coming."

Aric (loading his blaster):
"What are they? Guardians?"

Lira (tense):
"Or hunters."

[The Watchers step forward, surrounding them. One of the beings, larger than the others, tilts its head as if studying them.]

Watcher Leader (voice echoing in their minds):
"Trespassers... you are not of this world. The Skyward's power has brought you here, but you are unworthy of its gifts."

Kaida (fiercely):
"We didn't come here by choice. We want no part of your power."

Watcher Leader:
"Yet, you carry the mark. The Skyward is woven into your very being. You cannot escape it."

[The Watcher reaches out, its hand glowing with energy. Kaida feels a surge of pain as the mark on her hand—the one that had appeared during her first encounter with the Skyward—burns brightly.]

Kaida (gasping, clutching her hand):
"No... I'm not... I didn't want this!"

Watcher Leader:
"It is not for you to choose. The Skyward has chosen you, as it has chosen all before you."

[Kaida collapses to one knee, struggling to control the power surging through her. Aric and Lira stand ready to fight, but the Watchers do not attack.]

Aric (concerned, kneeling next to Kaida):
"Kaida, hang on. We'll find a way out of this."

Kaida (breathing heavily, gritting her teeth):
"I... I have to control it. The Skyward... it's part of me now."