Leo's mind raced. He needed a plan, fast. The tiger's fiery breath and needle-like fur made close combat a nightmare. His daggers—though deadly—weren't enough against such an unpredictable opponent. But he still had his bow. The explosive arrows were his ace in the hole.
He slid backward, narrowly avoiding a swipe of the tiger's tail. His heart pounded in his chest. The forest around him was eerily silent except for the beast's low growls and the rustle of leaves. Leo knew he had seconds before the tiger attacked again. He raised his bow, pulled an arrow from his quiver, and notched it with practiced speed.
"Explosion: Activate," he whispered under his breath, aiming carefully.
The arrow zipped through the air, striking a tree right next to the tiger. The resulting blast shook the ground and sent a shower of splinters flying. The tiger staggered, snarling as bits of bark and dirt rained on it. Leo knew this was just the beginning. Each explosion grew stronger with his level and survival points, and the tiger was already reeling.
But the beast recovered quickly, eyes blazing with fury. It lunged at Leo, faster than before, and he barely dodged its jaws snapping shut just inches from his arm. The tiger's tail whipped out in a wide arc, but this time Leo was ready. He leapt aside, feeling the wind from the furious strike.
As the tiger prepared to swipe again, Leo dashed toward a large rock formation nearby. He aimed another explosive arrow at the base of the rocks.
"Explosion: Activate."
The explosion sent a plume of dust and shattered stone into the air. One chunk of rock flew at the tiger, knocking it off balance and sending it crashing onto the forest floor.
Leo pressed his advantage, firing arrow after arrow, each exploding with devastating force. The forest around them became a chaotic battlefield of smoke and scorched earth. The tiger's roars turned desperate.
Leo grinned despite the burn still tingling on his leg. His new skill was working better than he'd imagined.
The tiger struggled to its feet, visibly weakened but far from defeated. It growled low and charged, teeth bared. Leo knew this fight wasn't over yet.
He dropped his bow and drew his daggers, gripping them tightly. The close quarters would be brutal, but he had no choice. If he could outmaneuver the tiger and make his strikes count, he could end this.
The tiger launched itself at Leo again. This time Leo sidestepped smoothly, slashing with his Crystal Dagger. The blade cut deep into the tiger's shoulder, drawing blood and slowing the beast.
The tiger hissed in pain but retaliated, claws raking Leo's side. He stumbled but kept his footing, eyes locked on the beast.
The tiger faltered, its movements slowing as Leo's dagger drew its blood ouy.
Breathing heavily, Leo pressed the attack, stabbing and slashing with precision.
Finally, the tiger collapsed, defeated.
*DING!*
"You have slain: Stealth Tiger - Level 11."
*DING!*
"135 Survival Points Earned."
*DING!*
"HUMAN - Class: Archer has gained 1 level."
Leo sank to his knees, panting but triumphant. The battle had been tougher than any he'd faced so far, but his new skill and explosive arrows had given him the edge. He had also gained a level.
He checked his stats.
HUMAN – Class: Archer – Level 5
Health Points: 45/70
Stamina: 35/45
Mana Points: 0/0
Strength: 55/50
Speed: 65/65
Leo's strength and speed had maxed out thanks to the battle and survival points.
He smiled, feeling invincible.
But deep down, he knew the island still held many more dangerous creatures. This was just the start of his grind — and he was ready for whatever came next. But before he did, he would get a sweet new skill.
*DING!*
Leo grinned.