The forest was quiet again, except for the distant rustle of leaves. Jiwon studied the young woman who had stepped out from the shadows. She seemed fragile, but there was a determined fire in her eyes.
"I'm Lee Somin," she said softly, bowing slightly. "I've been… watching you. Your skeletons… your control… I want to learn from you."
Haein crossed her arms, observing. "And why should we let you? This dungeon isn't safe for beginners."
Somin met her gaze steadily. "I can survive. I've trained on my own. I know the risks. I just need guidance… and protection until I can keep up."
Jiwon glanced at the system. [Potential Ally Detected] [Combat Readiness: Low] [Willpower: High]
He exhaled slowly. "Alright. You come with us. But rules are strict. One mistake… you're on your own."
Somin nodded firmly. "I understand."
"Good," Jiwon said, turning back to the path ahead. "Follow my commands exactly. No improvisation until I say so."
The skeletons moved slightly, as if acknowledging the new presence. Jiwon felt the bond forming between them—not just with him, but with the team.
Haein shook her head but smirked. "You really do attract trouble… or allies. Can't tell which."
Jiwon didn't answer. Instead, he gestured toward the deeper forest. "Next dungeon section is dangerous. Stay close. Skeletons, guard her."
Somin followed without hesitation. Her small form moved carefully, keeping pace with the skeletons. Jiwon watched her, noting the way she observed the environment—alert, cautious, yet eager.
The forest seemed to grow darker as they moved. Mist coiled around tree trunks and broken rocks, making shadows dance like living creatures.
From behind a fallen tree, faint glowing eyes watched. Something larger, smarter than the Forest Guardian, tracked their movements. Jiwon didn't notice it yet, but the system pinged faintly.
[Unknown Threat Detected: Observation Only]
They moved deeper into the ruins of the forest. Haein led the front, skeletons flanking, and Somin quietly in the middle. Jiwon walked slightly behind, ready to give commands at a moment's notice.
It felt… different. He wasn't alone anymore.
And for the first time, he felt the weight of responsibility—not just for himself, but for others who had chosen to follow him.
Somewhere ahead, the forest whispered secrets, and the next test awaited.