A Friend

As the night slowly faded, the blood-red moon began to sink toward the horizon, while the first light of dawn swept across the sky above Aden Forest. The crisp morning air carried the scent of damp earth and foliage, marking the beginning of a new day.

Eryon felt his consciousness gradually returning. His eyelids felt heavy as he opened his eyes, allowing himself to adjust to the faint light that was starting to dispel the darkness. He realized he was lying on the cold ground, surrounded by the remnants of a dying campfire, with embers still faintly smoldering in the air.

"You're finally awake," a soft yet composed voice came from nearby.

Eryon turned his head, his eyes immediately locking onto the figure of a girl approaching him. Her silver hair shimmered under the dawn light, and her sharp, yet mysterious gaze held his own.

In an instant, memories from the past surged through his mind as he sat up. He recognized this girl.

"You… Kassandra?" he murmured, still slightly dazed.

The girl crossed her arms, looking at him expressionlessly. "Yes, it's been a while, Eryon. I didn't expect to run into you here," she said, her voice flat yet carrying a hint of curiosity. "What are you doing in a place like this?"

Eryon exhaled, still trying to gather his thoughts. "Maybe trying to get stronger?" he answered casually.

Kassandra narrowed her eyes. "By hunting monsters and nearly getting yourself killed?" she asked, her tone laced with disapproval.

Eryon chuckled, then looked up at the sky, which was shifting in color. "What else do you expect? How else am I supposed to grow stronger? Tell me, what's the best way to get used to fighting?" He turned back to her, his gaze filled with certainty. "In a world where strength is everything, you have to embrace violence. And I've just realized that."

Kassandra stared at him in silence, as if analyzing every word he had just spoken. "You talk as if you're from another world," she murmured at last. "But more importantly… you can't keep recklessly endangering yourself. I don't want to coming here again just to save you," she added, unfolding her arms.

Eryon simply gave a small smile. "Yeah, I get it. This was my first time entering this forest. But fine, I'll keep your words in mind," he said nonchalantly before adding with a mischievous grin, "Next time, I'll be the one saving you."

Kassandra just shook her head at his words before sitting down beside him. With gentle movements, she began applying something to the wound on Eryon's left arm. A distinct herbal scent immediately filled the air.

"This venom can be fatal if not treated properly. Rub this on for ten minutes," she said, handing him a lump of green herbs.

Eryon took the herbal paste and slowly applied it to his wound. He glanced at Kassandra, a smirk forming on his face.

"Now I understand why you're so popular at school. Not only beautiful, but also caring, kind… and talented. I can only imagine how lucky the guy who wins your heart would be," he said teasingly.

Kassandra turned to him, a sarcastic expression appearing on her face. "I'd rather wonder how Candice would react if she saw her boyfriend flirting with another girl," she remarked casually, her tone carrying a hint of disapproval.

Eryon paused for a moment before giving a small smile. "Candice isn't my girlfriend anymore."

Kassandra raised an eyebrow, looking slightly surprised. "You two broke up?" she asked.

Eryon looked at her with an amused expression. "Are you happy to hear that?" he teased.

Kassandra immediately rolled her eyes. "Ugh, who cares? I was just curious," she replied quickly.

Eryon chuckled, but there was a slight bitterness in his smile. "She left me for another guy. You know Julian Steiner? I don't think I need to explain further," he said lightly.

At the mention of that name, Kassandra's expression shifted to one of understanding. Of course, she knew Julian Steiner, the son of the mayor of Adenburry. She could also grasp the implication behind Eryon's words. Her expression softened, though there was a hint of curiosity.

"I didn't know Candice was that kind of girl. How could she cheat on you with Julian? I mean, I know Julian, but you're more…" Kassandra suddenly trailed off, realizing she had misspoken.

Eryon caught on immediately. "I'm more what? More handsome?" he asked, his eyes glinting playfully. "Well, I do know that out of everyone at school, I'm the most good-looking."

Kassandra sighed, looking exasperated. "I didn't say that, you narcissist."

"But that's what you wanted to say," Eryon continued teasing.

Kassandra huffed, trying to stay calm. "I was just going to say… compared to Julian, you're better in some aspects. You know, he's more of a thug. Despite his talent, he has a bad attitude."

Eryon smiled in satisfaction. "You seem to know me pretty well."

"We were childhood friends," Kassandra replied, shaking her head.

Eryon chuckled. "Yeah, I know. It's just surprising that you still remember me so well after we lost contact for years. But honestly, I'm glad. You're still the Kassandra I know," he said with a genuine smile.

For a moment, they simply looked at each other. Then, Kassandra smirked slightly. "You won't be able to charm me with words like that. I have no intention of replacing Candice."

Eryon raised an eyebrow. "Why would you think that way? Do you… have hopes?"

Kassandra's expression instantly changed. "Of course not!" she responded quickly.

"Hahaha," Eryon just laughed, enjoying how he could make Kassandra lose her composure. They continued talking and share stories, reminiscing about old times as they watched the sun slowly rise over the horizon.

----

As time passed, the sun now hung high in the sky, marking six in the morning.

Eryon finished the last piece of bear meat that Kassandra had hunted while they both stood, making sure their campfire was completely out.

"Are you sure you've recovered?" Kassandra asked, raising an eyebrow.

Eryon nodded. "Yeah. Thanks for helping me earlier."

Kassandra shrugged. "It's nothing. But next time, be careful. It'd be better if you waited for your class awakening before exploring places like this again. I'm sure you'll awaken a unique class," she said.

Eryon simply gave a small smile, nodding. "I'll keep that in mind."

As Kassandra was still busy putting out the last embers, Eryon watched her intently, and a holographic screen appeared before him.

[Name: Kassandra Kryvenhart]

[Race: Human]

[Class: -]

[Cultivation Base: Sage Realm Level 2]

Eryon's eyes widened. He could hardly believe what he had just seen. Sage Realm… At his age, and she was already at that level?

No wonder Kassandra had taken down that giant cobra so effortlessly. Yet, she always avoided his questions about how she had done it.

On the other hand, Kassandra suddenly narrowed her eyes, looking at him suspiciously. "Eryon, why do I feel like you just… saw through me?" she asked sharply.

Eryon remained calm. "What do you mean?"

Kassandra stared at him for a moment before shaking her head. "Forget it. Since you've recovered, I'll continue my exploration," she said.

Without waiting for Eryon's response, she turned and left.

Eryon didn't try to stop her. Instead, he found himself deep in thought. Last night had been a long one, filled with unexpected encounters.

And now, he had just discovered that his childhood friend, Kassandra was far stronger than him. But rather than feeling insecure, he felt a burning determination.

He had to become stronger.