Scums
This group of unknown magus wore robes that concealed their spirit energy signatures.
Even though they could argue that their robes were for safety, the behavior they displayed clearly told that these people had no intention of taking part in the Hunt, aiming instead to harm the other hunters.
The 5 magus did not wear any emblem representing a faction, but the way they confidently stopped Emery's group, without the slightest hint of worry about being ganged up on by other participants, told them they certainly had a powerful backing, most likely one of the three major factions, or maybe all three of them.
Still with a condescending smile on his face, the leader leisurely said, "It's nothing personal, kid. We are here just to make sure only the worthy pack enter the final round."