I thought I'd start this update with a little reminder. If you've read Episode 3 you will see I said something about the way I write "The 3 Shadows". "The 3 Shadows" are designed so that I can write a chapter quickly every night. This is mostly for my own sake cause I like to progress a story everyday. I like this format and I don't see why I should change it.

I do have other fics you know. Try reading "Age of Egg", "SA2: A Shadow's memory" or "Apocolypse's Revival: A sonic heroes story". They are longer fics that are about 20-2500 words a chapter.

All copyright info in chapter 1

The 3 Shadows, Episode 4 - Hunters

Chapter 2 - The stage is set

The Mystic caves of Westside Island were quite well known. Many feared them, as they were the subjects of many a ghost story. Dark caves that were feared by millions, the perfect place for a secret hideout. The 3 Shadows arrived at the caves after quite a long trip. Miles suddenly froze in fear.

"These are the Mystic Caves? Er you guys go on ahead I'll catch up later", said Miles shaking in fear.

"Don't tell me you believe those Ghost stories?" asked Joz smiling, "Obviously GASH made up those stories to keep people away".

"Who are GASH anyway Joz?" asked Shadow.

"GASH stands for the Guild for Assassins, Spies and Hunters. Mercenaries hired specifically to kill people train and live with them. They are bred to be cold, ruthless killers and be the best Spies and Bounty hunters in the world", replied Joz.

"Were you ever a part of GASH?" asked Shadow.

"No. I acquired all my skills myself. Most from when I got my blade. I just knew how to use it the moment I touched it", replied Joz.

"No wonder they're pissed. They're trained to be the best hunters in the world yet an outsider is classed as the Master", said Shadow.

"Remind me again why we're entering the hideout of ruthless killers, which also happens to be the place many horrific Ghost stories are set," said Miles still shaking in fear.

"Well you want your stuff back and I've been challenged for my title. I aint backing down now", said Joz, "See ya inside".

Joz walked into the cave, followed by Shadow.

"Hey don't leave me out here alone", said Miles, "Oh come on Miles, you're a hero now. Stop being a Chicken and get in that cave".

Miles reluctantly walked inside the cave. It was too dark to see anything. Miles slowly walked forward softly shouting out "Joz!" and "Shadow!"

Suddenly something placed it's hand on Miles' Shoulder.

"Boo!" It said making Miles jump and scream loudly. The cave lit up showing Shadow laughing at Miles. He turned around to see Joz moving his hand back, also laughing.

"Sorry Miles, I had to do it", said Joz.

"That wasn't funny", said Miles angrily.

"Yes it was. Ok let's move on", said Shadow, "What are we meant to do anyway?"

The question was soon answered when a loud voice started talking over the tannoy.

Welcome 3 Shadows. Our beef is with Master hunter, while we're challenging him you can watch in our safe room. It will also be the place where Master hunter can rest between battles. First he will have to pass a quick initiation test. If he passes it he will then face each of us in order of rank, lowest first, one on one. If you make it all the way to me, Sapphire, and manage to beat me you can keep your title of Master hunter. If not it will go to me, the leader of the Deadly gems and therefore the best. Rests are allowed after the initiation and after each battle. Any questions?

"How are the winner of each battle decided?" asked Joz.

"Basic tournament rules. You lose if you're knocked out, leave the arena or submit", said Sapphire, "We do not want any unnecessary bloodshed. You must use the blunt side of your blade or face disqualification"

"Any time limits? Any weapon, armour or tool restrictions?" asked Joz.

"We don't believe in time limits, but if you are inactive for a very long period of time we will treat it as a knock-out and start counting. You are allowed to use whatever you would use normally, providing it is non-lethal or a non-lethal mode is used", replied Sapphire.

"Sounds good. So what do I do now?" asked Joz.

"Walk through the door I'll open for you in a second to enter the initiation room. I'll tell you what to do once you're inside", said Sapphire.

One of the walls suddenly moved up into the roof to reveal a secret passageway.

"Wait here guys. I have to do this one alone", said Joz before walking through the newly revealed passage.