Ephraim's first steps into the unknown weren't aimless—he was focused. His survival instincts told him water was his top priority.
In a survival situation, he knew water wasn't a luxury; it was a necessity, especially with no guarantee of finding civilization nearby.
He scanned the forest, looking for any sign of a stream, pond, or lake to guide him.
As Ephraim walked deeper into the forest, he couldn't help but notice the variety of plants around him.
Some looked familiar, like Earth plants, but with small differences—a darker shade of green, longer leaves, or odd colors that seemed just off.
It was as if nature here had been enhanced, with plants more vibrant and fuller than anything he'd seen before. The leaves were wider, the stems thicker, and some flowers bloomed in colors he'd only seen in fantasy games or art.
But among the familiar plants, there were ones that looked completely foreign. Some had twisting, spiraling vines, while others seemed to glow faintly in the light, as if radiating energy.
Despite having seen countless strange things online, nothing on Earth—or the internet—resembled these. The sight filled him with both awe and caution.
This strange landscape only confirmed his suspicions. "I really might have been transported to another world," he murmured, still in disbelief.
A complicated smile crossed his lips as he thought back. "I finally talked to a girl again after so long... and then I get whisked away to some fantasy realm?" He didn't know whether to laugh or cry at the absurdity of it all.
Though he'd often daydreamed about being transported to another world, he was also very aware of the dangers that could be ahead. That's why he hadn't stepped out of the cave without careful preparation.
Yet beneath his caution, a spark of excitement remained. This world, though unfamiliar, promised new experiences, challenges, and maybe even some of the wonders he'd only read about. What could he discover here, and what mysteries awaited him?
Finding the river sooner than he expected, Ephraim felt a surge of relief and excitement—maybe his luck was turning. But he didn't rush to the water's edge. Instead, he hesitated, wary of what might be hiding nearby or beneath the surface.
To test the waters, he picked up a rock and tossed it toward the river. Any hidden creature would likely react, even with a slight movement.
After all, even the steadiest beings would flinch if something unexpected hit them—unless, of course, they were skilled enough to stay perfectly still.
To be sure, Ephraim tossed another rock into the river, watching closely for any reaction. When nothing stirred, he decided it was safe enough. If danger was waiting despite his precautions, he'd have to face it.
His first move upon reaching the water's edge wasn't to drink, but to check his reflection. This had been another reason for finding a water source—without a mirror, a river was the next best thing.
He leaned over, allowing his eyes to adjust to the rippling image staring back at him. He was eager but also a little apprehensive, wondering if he still looked like himself.
He wanted a good look at his appearance. After all, if he encountered anyone, he didn't want to scare them off with his looks. Plus, he needed to make sure he hadn't turned into some strange creature without realizing it.
After studying his reflection, Ephraim smiled in satisfaction. He still looked like himself—just a bit taller, with smoother, more flawless skin.
"It's good that I'm still handsome," he chuckled, the sound echoing faintly around him. He then grabbed a water container from his bag and filled it with the clear, drinkable river water.
After splashing his face to refresh himself, he looked down the path where the river flowed. It seemed like a natural direction to follow, so he decided to stick to its course, hoping it might eventually lead him out of the forest.
Not long after he started walking—just a few minutes, maybe—Ephraim began to hear rustling sounds, accompanied by high-pitched grumbles from ahead.
It sounded like some creatures were communicating with each other, though he couldn't make out the words or fully understand what they were saying.
The noise sparked his curiosity, but it also raised alarm bells in his mind. He instinctively slowed his pace, trying to remain as quiet as possible to get a better sense of what lay ahead.