A Named Monster [Part 1]

Northern was carefully observing his surroundings; everywhere had suddenly fallen into an eerie silence.

Not only were the footsteps of his comrades gone, but they were gone too.

All at once, he was separated from them.

He frowned darkly and slowly, in the wake of black sparks, materialized the Mortal Blade.

His eyes narrowed as they carefully scanned the dark corners of the forest.

At first, everything was submerged in a terrifying silence, one that caused Northern himself to almost shrink back.

It was all too strange.

And at the same time, it felt alluring.

This loneliness is the one thing he had been seeking; he slowly tread forward, cautiously retracing his steps.

Then suddenly, a low growl crept toward him.

In swift motion, Northern spun and whipped the Mortal Blade forward.

The onyx blade collided in a vibrating clang with the claws of a vicious beast that had lunged at Northern from behind.