Chapter 12: The Hunt Begins

Sehan’s grip on his sword tightened as the beast prowled closer, its low growl reverberating through the night. The flickering fire in the distance cast eerie shadows against the trees, but his focus remained locked on the creature before him.

It was unlike anything he had faced in the tutorial—a hulking, four-legged predator with razor-sharp fangs and glowing, predatory eyes. Its powerful muscles rippled beneath thick, matted fur, each step exuding raw, primal hunger.

Sehan inhaled slowly, steadying himself. His instincts screamed at him to act first.

The beast lunged.

Sehan sidestepped, void energy flickering at his feet as he activated Void Step, narrowly avoiding the creature’s snapping jaws. His blade lashed out in response, carving a shallow gash across the monster’s back. It roared in pain, skidding to a halt before whirling around to face him again.

It was fast—but Sehan had already analyzed its movements.

He feinted left, baiting another attack. As the beast committed to the lunge, he twisted mid-step and drove his sword deep into its exposed side.

A burst of void energy crackled through the blade, slicing through flesh like paper.

The creature let out a final, agonized cry before collapsing, lifeless.

Sehan exhaled sharply, yanking his sword free. His muscles ached, but there was no time to rest. His eyes flickered to the distant glow of firelight. Whoever—or whatever—was there, he had wasted enough time already.

Rolling his shoulders, he set off again, keeping low to the ground as he approached the unknown light source.

As he neared, figures came into view—humanoid silhouettes gathered around the flames.

Players? Locals? His mind raced through the possibilities, but one thing was certain: he needed information.

Steeling himself, he stepped forward.

A tense silence fell over the group as they turned to face him.

Sehan raised his blade, its edge still slick with the beast’s blood.

"Mind if I join?" he asked, a smirk tugging at his lips.