the laws of survival

Jin-Won tightened his grip on his sword as glowing blue cracks spread across the streets. The creatures emerging from them had eerie, luminous eyes, twisted forms, and an aura that sent shivers down his spine—things that didn't belong in this world.

"This isn't just a visual change," Lyria's voice came through the phone, tense. "These creatures… they're real!"

Hori let out a nervous laugh. "Great! We broke reality, and now monsters are invading our world. Just another normal day, huh?"

New notifications appeared before everyone in the city, visible to all.

[ Phase One of World Merging Complete ]

[ System Rules Are Now in Effect ]

[ All Citizens Have Become Official Participants ]

Jin-Won narrowed his eyes. "Participants?"

Before he could fully grasp the meaning, another set of messages appeared.

[ Survival Protocol Activated ]

[ Mission: Defend or Fall ]

[ Attack Will Commence in 10 Minutes. Prepare Accordingly. ]

A heavy silence filled the air. The city, still shifting, was now facing an even greater threat. People who had ignored the strange changes now stared in horror as windows displaying the same mission appeared before them.

Si-Yeon's voice was filled with concern. "If the system considers everyone participants… that means no one can avoid this fight."

Jin-Won exhaled sharply. "Then we have ten minutes to figure out how to fight."

Hori looked around nervously. "You mean other than swinging swords at things that shouldn't exist?"

Lyria cut in quickly. "No, wait! If this is a system, then there must be skills, abilities—ways to defend ourselves!"

Jin-Won scanned his status window, and sure enough, something new had appeared.

[ Skill Acquired: Aether Blade ]

[ Effect: Enhances weapon attacks with concentrated energy. ]

A small smirk formed on his face. "Then we need to learn—fast."

As darkness loomed and the countdown ticked lower, the world braced for its fate.

The first battle of the merged world was about to begin.

—To be continued…