The sun had just started rising over the quiet coastal city of Ridgebay. Most were still asleep, but not Makai Strom Ridge.
A nobody. A forgotten name in a noisy world. Just a guy with worn boots and late rent.
But fate doesn't knock—it crashes.
A monstrous creature—bulky, reptilian, and towering—came out of nowhere. Its claws ripped through homes, and its roar shattered the morning silence. In its jaws, an old man stood frozen, seemingly waiting for death.
Makai didn't run. He didn't think. He grabbed a metal rod from a wrecked bike rack and charged.
Straight into something inhuman.
The rod struck deep into the creature's chest.
The beast howled… and fell.
The old man didn't flee. He smiled.
You didn't hesitate," he said. "That wasn't just a monster… it was my test.