The Shadowfang Wolf snarled, its silver fur matted with blood as it lunged at Zephyroth. He barely managed to dodge, the beast's claws raking the air inches from his face. The cut on his side burned, and his vision blurred from exhaustion. Every breath felt heavier, like the forest itself was pressing down on him.
"This can't be how it ends…" he muttered, gripping his dagger tighter despite the trembling in his hands.
The wolf growled, its glowing red eyes locking onto him. It pounced again, and this time, Zephyroth's legs buckled. He raised his arms defensively, bracing for the inevitable.
Then, it happened.
---
[Adaptation Progress: 100%. Awakening in Progress.]
---
A surge of energy coursed through his body, like molten fire igniting every cell. The world seemed to slow down. He could see the wolf's movements clearly—the way its muscles rippled, the exact trajectory of its claws.
Without thinking, he moved. His body reacted on instinct, sidestepping the attack and driving his dagger into the wolf's side in one fluid motion. The beast howled in pain, thrashing violently, but Zephyroth didn't stop. He ducked under its swiping claws, slashing at its legs, its neck—any exposed area he could reach.
Finally, the wolf collapsed, its body dissolving into motes of light. Zephyroth fell to his knees, gasping for air.
---
[Shadowfang Wolf defeated. Omni Points gained: 5.]
[New Ability Unlocked: Reactive Reflexes.]
---
"Reactive Reflexes?" he murmured, staring at his bloodied hands. His body still felt strange—lighter, faster, more responsive. He flexed his fingers experimentally. "Did… Did I just level up?"
The system chimed again, almost answering his question:
---
[Omniarchal Essence Level 1 achieved.]
[Congratulations, Zephyroth. You have taken the first step toward your potential.]
---
He laughed weakly, falling onto his back. "First step? That felt more like a leap…"
But there was no time to rest. The howls of more wolves echoed in the distance, and the forest's shadows seemed to grow darker. Zephyroth forced himself to his feet, gripping his dagger tightly.
"If I want to survive… I have to keep going."