05

Morning light filtered through the grand windows of the Mon'draigg manor's dining hall, casting a warm glow over the polished oak table laden with breakfast delicacies. The family members were scattered around, engaging in light conversation as they enjoyed their meal. The aroma of freshly baked bread and brewed tea filled the air, creating a comforting atmosphere.

The nameless boy sat quietly near the end of the table, his plate untouched as he nervously fiddled with the edge of his napkin. His eyes darted toward Alcor, who was seated across from him, engrossed in a thick novel while sipping his coffee. Summoning his courage, the boy cleared his throat softly.

"Uncle Alcor?" he began, his voice meek but steady.

Alcor looked up from his book, raising an eyebrow. "Yes?"

"I was wondering... Could I have a small dagger?" the boy asked, doing his best to maintain eye contact despite the fluttering in his stomach.

The chatter around the table hushed slightly as a few curious glances were cast their way. Alcor's eyes narrowed, studying the boy's face intently.

"A dagger? And what would you need that for?" Alcor questioned, his tone cautious.

The boy swallowed, hoping his rehearsed excuse sounded convincing. "For wood carving. I... I wanted to try making something for Aunt Cynthia. She's always so kind to me," he explained, adding a shy smile for effect.

Alcor's gaze softened marginally at the mention of Cynthia, but skepticism lingered in his eyes. He leaned back in his chair, considering the request. "Wood carving, huh? You know, carving isn't as easy as it looks. Have you ever tried it before?"

Shaking his head, the boy replied, "No, but I want to learn. I thought it would be a nice surprise."

A small smile tugged at the corner of Alcor's lips, and he nodded slowly. "Well, I can't fault you for wanting to make a gift. Alright, I'll get you a dagger, but promise me you'll be careful. They're not toys."

The boy's face lit up with genuine gratitude. "I promise! Thank you, Uncle Alcor."

From across the table, Allie smirked, her eyes gleaming with emotions. "Look at you, getting all crafty. Maybe you can make me something too?"

"Of course, big sis," the boy replied, his smile unwavering even as his mind began to plot his next move.

-

Later that morning, Alcor handed the boy a sleek, modestly sized dagger with a simple leather-wrapped handle. The blade gleamed sharply, reflecting the boy's determined gaze as he held it carefully.

"Remember, be cautious," Alcor repeated himself, his tone stern but not unkind. "If you need any help, ask someone. We don't want any accidents."

"I will. Thank you again," the boy said, bowing his head respectfully before tucking the dagger into his belt.

As he made his way down the corridor, the boy's steps were light, but his mind raced. He needed to leave the manor without drawing attention, particularly from Allie, who had a knack for meddling in his affairs. Just as he turned the corner, he nearly bumped into her.

"Hey there, little craftsman!" Allie exclaimed, ruffling his hair playfully. "Heading off to start your masterpiece?"

The boy chuckled nervously, taking a small step back. "Yes, I was thinking of working outside. The weather's nice today."

Allie crossed her arms, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Mind if I join you? I could give you some pointers."

Alarm bells rang in the boy's head, but he maintained his calmed facade. Thinking quickly, he put on a thoughtful expression. "Actually, I heard Uncle Jin mention needing help with some heavy lifting in the stables. He said he was looking for someone very strong and very reliable."

Allie's competitive spirit flared instantly. "He did, did he? Well, can't leave the old man hanging, can I?" She flexed her arms, grinning confidently. "Guess my expertise will have to wait. Good luck with your carving!"

"Thanks, big sis Allie!" the boy replied cheerfully, watching as she strode purposefully toward the stables. Once she was out of sight, he exhaled a sigh of relief and headed toward the forest edge behind the manor.

-

The dense forest loomed ahead, a sea of towering trees and overgrown fauna. The boy hesitated for a moment, gripping the dagger at his side as he took in the sheer size of the wilderness before him. The afternoon sun filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows across the forest floor and creating a looming sense of uncertainty on the forest.

Steeling himself, he stepped into the woods, trying to keep himself alert to every sound and movement. Remembering the hunting strategies he'd read about in the manor's library, he began searching for any signs of weathered paths. His eyes scanned the ground meticulously, looking for patches where the grass grew thinner or paths where the foliage seemed disturbed.

After walking for some time, he noticed a narrow trail where the grass was noticeably worn down, and small branches starting to grow back at the base of large trees. A spark of excitement ignited within him as he followed the subtle path deeper into the forest.

Birdsong filled the air, and the earthy scent of moss and damp leaves surrounded him, but the boy continued forward, ignoring his curiosity. He observed the trees, noting marks and notches that seemed out of place, wondering who had left them and when. The trail led him through a thicket and across a shallow stream, each step bringing him closer to the thing his uncle was looking for—or so he hoped.

As he ventured further, the forest grew quieter, the cheerful chirping of birds replaced by an eerie stillness. The boy's footsteps slowed down as unease settled in his stomach. The sunlight struggled to penetrate the thickening canopy, casting long shadows that danced with the sway of the trees.

A sudden rustle in the nearby bushes made him freeze. He gripped his dagger tightly, eyes wide as he scanned the area. "Hello?" he called out tentatively, his voice barely above a whisper.

Silence answered him at first, but then a low, guttural growl resonated through the air. The boy's heart pounded against his chest as a massive, wolf-like creature emerged from the shadows, its fur bristling and eyes glowing with a predatory gleam.

The beast snarled, baring sharp fangs as it crouched, preparing to pounce. Panic surged through the boy, but he forced himself to remain steady, raising the dagger defensively despite his trembling hands.

The creature lunged, and the boy stumbled backward, narrowly avoiding a swipe from its razor-sharp claws. He slashed clumsily with the dagger, barely grazing the beast's flank, which only seemed to enrage it further.

Desperation fueled his movements as he dodged another attack, feeling the wind from the beast's clawed swipe brush past his cheek. His foot caught on a twisted root, sending him sprawling onto the forest floor. The impact knocked the breath from his lungs, and his dagger flew from his grasp, skittering out of reach.

The creature wasted no time, leaping toward him with deadly intent. Scrambling backward, the boy's hand closed around a fallen branch, and he swung it wildly, managing to strike the beast across the snout. The creature yelped, momentarily stunned, giving the boy a brief window to get back on his feet.

He ran, adrenaline coursing through his veins as he weaved between trees and overgrown bushes. The sound of heavy footsteps and growls pursued him relentlessly. His lungs burned, and his legs ached, but fear pushed him onward.

As he glanced over his shoulder, he failed to notice the sudden drop ahead. His foot met open air, and fear washed over his entire as he began to fall with nothing but darkness slowly surrounding him as the light slowly died out.