The cold Lunaris air hit Joon-hyuk's skin like ice water. He stood in an open field of luminous grass. Giant petals fell from black trees, glimmering with blue light. He had no idea what was happening.
Tutorial Initiated.
First Task: Form Bond with a Native.
"Form a bond?" he muttered. "What is this—dating simulator meets isekai?"
His sarcasm was short-lived. A growl echoed nearby. He turned just in time to see a beast—a massive wolf-like creature with molten eyes—lunge toward him.
"Crap!"
Before he could react, a bright flash blinded him. The beast yelped and vanished.
A girl stood nearby, her hand glowing. She wore a cloak made of twilight feathers, and her eyes shimmered like moonlight.
"You're not from here," she said, voice calm.
"Nope. Just dropped in."
"I'm Mirae. You need protection."
As if on cue, his system pinged.
Bond Candidate Detected: Mirae Han – Affection Level: 10%
He blinked. "Affection level?"
"Your aura's unstable. Must be your first sync. Come with me."
They moved through the woods. Mirae explained Lunaris was a world that responded to emotions. Affection gave power. Hatred corrupted. Despair… killed.
Joon-hyuk's system pulsed.
New Skill Unlocked: Emotional Sync (Level 1)
Passive: Gain minor stat boosts when near bonded individuals.
He couldn't believe it—but with each smile Mirae gave, his limbs felt stronger. His vision clearer.
She saved him once. Maybe now, he'd fight to save her back.
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