Kael crouched behind a cluster of thick bushes, observing the Infernal Boars as they moved lazily by the stream. Their red-tinted hides glimmered faintly, an indication of the fiery energy coursing through their bodies. While individually weak, Infernal Boars could become dangerous in groups, especially when agitated.
He tightened his grip on his sword and steadied his breathing. This would be his first encounter in the trial, and he needed to approach it carefully. Charging recklessly wasn't an option.
Analyzing their movements, Kael noticed the boars were spread out in a loose formation. Two grazed near the water while the third stood a few feet away, sniffing the air. It would be risky to attack one without alerting the others.
"Alright," he whispered, narrowing his eyes. "Take out the furthest one first, then deal with the rest before they can coordinate."
Kael summoned the shadows to his side, letting the familiar energy flow through him. His affinity allowed him to move with near-silent precision, blending into the dimly lit forest.
With calculated steps, he closed the distance between himself and the boar furthest from the group. Once he was within striking range, Kael launched himself forward, his blade aimed at the creature's vulnerable neck.
The attack was swift and precise. The boar let out a guttural grunt as the blade sliced through, collapsing to the ground in a heap. Kael barely had time to recover before the remaining two boars turned toward the sound.
The larger of the two bellowed in rage, charging at Kael with its tusks glowing faintly. Kael sidestepped at the last moment, slashing at its flank as it passed. His sword struck true, drawing a line of crimson against its hide, but the boar was far from defeated.
The second boar joined the fray, attempting to flank him. Kael cursed under his breath, quickly assessing his options.
He raised his free hand, channeling his shadow magic into a tendril that lashed out at the smaller boar, wrapping around its legs and pulling it off balance. The creature squealed as it fell to the ground, struggling to break free from the dark tendrils.
The larger boar, undeterred, charged again. Kael spun around, bringing his blade down in a wide arc. This time, his sword connected with the boar's neck, ending its rampage.
Breathing heavily, Kael turned to the remaining boar, which had managed to free itself. It hesitated for a moment, its crimson eyes locked onto Kael. But before it could act, Kael lunged forward, delivering the final blow.
As the last boar fell, the magical map appeared before him, displaying his updated point total: 15 points.
Kael wiped the sweat from his brow, glancing down at the fallen creatures. The fight had been manageable, but it was a reminder of the challenge ahead. If these Rank F beasts had taken this much effort, he needed to conserve his strength for the more formidable monsters lurking deeper within the island.
He knelt beside the largest boar, inspecting its hide. The creatures often carried materials useful for crafting or trading. Though the trial prohibited the use of external tools, anything found on the island could be used.
Kael managed to extract a small fiery core from the boar's chest. It pulsed faintly in his hand, radiating warmth.
"A fire essence," he murmured. "Could be useful later."
With the essence stored safely in his satchel, Kael rose to his feet, scanning the area for any signs of movement. The forest had grown unnervingly quiet, as if the island itself were watching his every move.
He pulled up the map once more, identifying a new area marked by faint symbols. It appeared to be a clearing further north, where Rank E creatures were likely to roam.
"Time to push forward," he said to himself, his resolve hardening.
Kael set off, moving cautiously through the dense foliage.