Forest Encounters

The morning sun cast golden rays over the vast training grounds, illuminating the students as they gathered in their assigned groups. The air was filled with an excited yet tense atmosphere, the murmurs of students mixing with the occasional clanking of weapons and armor.

Luke's group stood near the back, watching as other teams hastily made their way toward the distant hilltop—their designated objective. However, rather than setting off immediately, his group seemed to be stalled by the bickering of two noble boys, Jevon Striyeup and Tergil Mayal, who were far too preoccupied with Princess Felior Iskar to even consider moving forward.

"Your Highness, the terrain ahead is rather rough. Surely, you shouldn't have to concern yourself with such an arduous journey," Jevon declared, standing proudly with his chest puffed out.

"Yes, yes," Tergil quickly added, nodding enthusiastically. "Perhaps you should allow us to take charge and guide you along the safest route."

Felior, her long crimson hair flowing behind her, gave them a patient, composed smile. "I appreciate your concern," she said in a serene tone, "but I am perfectly capable of walking on my own."

Jevon scoffed. "Of course, but still, as nobles, it is our duty to ensure—"

Before he could finish, Persin clapped a hand on Jevon's shoulder, leaning in with an amused smirk. "You sure have a lot of energy for someone who's barely walked ten steps since the test started."

Tergil scowled. "Stay out of this, commoner."

Persin chuckled. "Oh? I'm just concerned, you see. If you two keep wasting time, someone else might win the favor of the princess before you do."

Jevon's expression darkened as he shot a glare at Persin. "Watch your tongue!"

"Or what? You'll challenge me to a duel?" Persin grinned, raising his hands mockingly. "Be careful, your noble pride might not survive the embarrassment."

Luke sighed, standing a little distance away, observing the scene unfold. The princess, to her credit, remained unshaken by the attention and the bickering around her. Her calm demeanor reminded him of royalty from stories—always poised, always calculating.

"We should move," she suddenly said, her voice gentle yet firm. "If we waste too much time here, we'll be at a disadvantage. Let's discuss things as we walk."

Luke folded his arms, considering her words. There was no harm in following along for now—this wasn't the time to cause unnecessary conflicts. The test was bound to have hidden challenges, and keeping the team intact, even with the bickering nobles, was the best course of action.

He sighed internally and nodded to himself. For now, I'll go with the flow.

With that, the group finally set off, heading toward the distant forest

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Luke's group moved cautiously through the dense forest, the towering trees casting long shadows over their path. The air was thick with the earthy scent of damp soil, and the distant cries of unseen creatures echoed through the wilderness. Their footsteps rustled against fallen leaves and twigs, blending with the natural symphony of the wild.

Suddenly, a deep tremor ran through the ground. It started as a faint vibration beneath their feet, but within moments, it grew stronger. Pebbles on the dirt path jittered, smaller stones bounced, and the leaves quivered as if caught in an invisible wave.

Luke's instincts flared. His senses sharpened, a primal alertness taking hold as he detected a beast presence nearby. Persin, who had been engaged in teasing the noble boys, also stiffened, his usual smirk replaced by a serious expression. The others stopped their bickering, their gazes scanning their surroundings as they too felt the ominous quake.

Then, from the thick foliage ahead, a massive figure emerged.

A giant beast, resembling a gorilla but far more menacing, stepped into view. Its hulking form was covered in sleek, glistening black strands that shimmered under the filtered daylight. Towering over them, its muscular frame exuded sheer power, each step causing the ground to quake slightly. Its piercing eyes burned with intelligence—cunning, almost calculating.

The creature bared its sharp, protruding fangs and let out a deep, guttural roar that rumbled across the clearing like rolling thunder.

"Rooooaaar!!"

The sheer force of its roar sent leaves scattering and shook the very air around them.

Jevon, one of the noble boys, immediately took a step forward, his hand confidently gripping the hilt of his sword. He turned his head slightly, speaking with a voice full of self-importance.

"Do not worry, Your Highness," Jevon declared, his tone dripping with arrogance. "I shall dispatch this mongrel that dares stand before you."

With a flourish, he unsheathed his sword, the polished steel catching the light. His stance was poised, though the glint in his eyes betrayed his real intentions.

'Heh, this is my chance,' Jevon thought smugly. 'If I slay this beast in front of the princess, she'll surely remember my bravery!'

But before he could charge in, Persin let out a small chuckle, shaking his head.

"That's a Black Steel Guron," Persin remarked, his voice tinged with amusement.

"Huh?!" Luke turned to him, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"They're well known for their nearly indestructible hide," Persin continued, his eyes fixed on the beast. "It's not just skin—it's made up of Black Steel."

Luke's eyes narrowed as he looked at the creature again, this time with more scrutiny. At first glance, the beast's body appeared to be covered in thick fur, but now that he looked closer…

"…Wait a minute," Luke muttered, realization dawning upon him. "That's not fur at all, is it?"

Persin smirked. "Nope. Those strands that look like fur? They're actually Black Steel fibers."

Luke's grip tightened as he processed the information. A beast with a hide as tough as steel? That was going to be a problem for his group. And yet, Jevon—ignorant and overconfident—was already stepping forward, sword in hand, completely oblivious to the danger ahead.