The growl from the shadows became louder. A pair of red eyes appeared from behind the dark trees. It was a Shadow Wolf, a monster known for its speed. In the past, Aryan would have run away in fear. But now, he had the Refined Steel Blade in his hand.
The wolf jumped toward him with its sharp claws. Aryan felt a sudden rush of energy. His movements were faster than before. He stepped aside quickly and swung his sword.
Clang!
The sword hit the wolf's thick fur, but it didn't just scratch it; the blade cut deep.
[System Notification]
Critical Hit!
Enemy Health: 50% Remaining.
"This power... it's real!" Aryan whispered. He could feel the weight of the sword perfectly. The system had not only fixed the weapon but also balanced it for his hand.
The Shadow Wolf was angry. It attacked again, faster this time. Aryan didn't panic. He watched the wolf's movement carefully. As the monster leaped, Aryan pointed his sword forward.
Squelch!
The blade pierced the wolf's heart. The monster let out a final whimper and fell to the ground. Slowly, its body turned into black smoke and disappeared, leaving behind a small, glowing crystal.
[Battle Finished!]
Experience Gained: +20 EXP
Loot Found: 1 Shadow Essence, 10 Soul Essence.
Current Level: 1 (Exp: 20/100)
Aryan picked up the glowing crystal. "With 10 Soul Essence, I can upgrade my sword again... or maybe I should upgrade my own strength?"
He looked at his hands. For the first time in his life, he didn't feel like a weak nobody. He felt like a God in the making.
But the forest was quiet—too quiet. Aryan knew that one wolf was just the beginning. To reach the top, he needed to upgrade everything.
"System," Aryan said firmly. "Show me my status."