Determination

Dawn broke over Shadowveil Forest with an eerie, muted glow. A thick mist blanketed the ancient trees as if guarding secrets from long-forgotten ages. Today was the day—the Beast Hunting Event had finally arrived.

Elian woke early in his sanctuary, the excitement and tension mingling with the cool morning air. He paused to glance at the Pet Tab, where his Shadow Dragon Egg—now hatching in approximately seven days—remained listed as his future companion. That thought filled him with both pride and a quiet determination for the challenges ahead.

After a final review of his gear and his system's new features, Elian stepped outside. The bustling energy of Arcadia was replaced by the primal ambiance of the forest. Shadowveil Forest stretched out before him—a sprawling, labyrinthine arena where towering trees bore witness to countless ancient battles, and the air vibrated with wild magic.

Elian adjusted his gear and tightened his grip on his obsidian dagger. The forest path was rugged, and every step was a test of both his agility and awareness. As he moved deeper into Shadowveil, the familiar hum of his system kept him focused and calculated.

In the distance, the event grounds began to emerge—a clearing marked by ancient runic stones, designated as the central arena for the Beast Hunting Event. Students from across the academy had gathered, their competitive energy palpable in the crisp morning air. Some exchanged confident nods; others furtively observed each other, aware that this event would expose raw potential and hidden abilities alike.

Elian's thoughts briefly returned to his recent upgrades. The careful allocation of attribute points had sharpened his perception and stamina, and the new skills unlocked through his system now offered him strategic advantages in the field. He recalled Eve's calm guidance and the surge of pride he had felt when his system upgraded her to Level 5. Those moments had set him on this path—a path that would test every facet of his being.

Now, with the forest alive with anticipation, Elian stepped forward. His eyes narrowed as he scanned the surroundings using his enhanced Inspect ability, noting subtle details of the terrain and the faint energy traces of roaming beasts. Somewhere out there, his next opponent waited—a creature whose defeat would not only earn him precious EXP and gold, but also bring him closer to unlocking further secrets of his power.

The forest was silent except for the crunch of leaves underfoot and the distant calls of wild beasts. Elian inhaled deeply, embracing the raw energy of Shadowveil. Today, every challenge, every hunt, would forge him into the master he was destined to become.

With his heart steady and his mind focused, he set off toward the clearing, determined to prove his mettle in the ultimate test of survival and strength.