Dawn in the Shrouded Wilds was a strange, hushed thing. Light filtered through the canopy like sifted gold, and the world seemed to hold its breath.
Ethan had just finished another drill when a new alert chimed in the corner of his vision.
[Combat Drill 3/3 Complete]
[XP Gained: +14]
[Skill Rank-Up: Blade Instinct → Rank E]
[Passive Bonus Unlocked: Counter Surge – Chance to counterstrike after a successful parry]
He let out a breath, watching the glow fade from his hands. He felt the difference now—movements smoother, reactions faster. The System didn't just teach. It rewired him, made him more efficient by the day.
Aelira approached, nodding approvingly. "You're learning fast."
"Thanks to the System," he replied, then frowned. "Or maybe because of it."
Before she could respond, a shrill, warbling howl split the air. It wasn't like any animal Ethan had heard before.
Aelira's demeanor shifted instantly. She grabbed her spear and pulled him down behind cover. "Hunters. Not beasts."
"Who?"
She narrowed her eyes. "Scorchfang Guild. Mercenaries. They operate near borders, hunting rare prey—exotics, relics, and sometimes... people."
Ethan's stomach sank. "You mean they're after us?"
"Not us. You."
[Threat Detection: Group of Five Approaching – Distance: 300 meters]
[Combat Readiness: Low. Stealth Recommended.]
Aelira tossed him a small disk. "Smoke veiler. Activate and move. Quietly."
They fled into the thicker parts of the forest, the undergrowth clawing at their boots. Behind them, shouts rang out. A plasma bolt scorched the moss near Ethan's leg.
He dove behind a root as the System flared again.
[Directive Update: Survive Hostile Encounter – Status: Active]
[Skill Gained: Evasion (F)]
They stayed low, maneuvering through the terrain with precision. Every rustle risked discovery. But thanks to the smoke veil and Aelira's guidance, they stayed ahead—barely.
After what felt like an hour, the voices faded. They had escaped, for now.
But Ethan knew it wouldn't be the last time someone came looking.