Zephyroth and Kyra moved deeper into the Forest of Trials, the tension between them lingering. Kyra's playful demeanor clashed with Zephyroth's cautious attitude, but her experience quickly became apparent. She guided them through traps, identified edible plants, and even took down smaller monsters with her bow before Zephyroth could react.
"You've got potential, rookie," Kyra said, glancing back as Zephyroth struggled to keep up. "But you're reckless. That Stoneback Boar? A smarter fighter would've used its charge against it."
Zephyroth scowled. "I didn't have time to think."
"Exactly. You're alive, sure, but just barely. If you want to make it out of this dungeon, you'll need more than brute force and luck."
Her words stung, but Zephyroth couldn't argue. He was still figuring out his newfound abilities and didn't fully understand the scope of the Omniarchal Essence.
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[System Update: New Quest Unlocked—"Survive the Forest's Core." Reward: Skill Advancement.]
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As the pair pressed on, the forest began to change. The air grew colder, and an unnatural mist rolled in. The trees twisted unnaturally, their gnarled branches resembling claws.
"This… isn't normal," Kyra muttered, her playful tone replaced by unease. "Stay close."
A low growl echoed through the mist, followed by the sound of heavy footsteps. Shadows moved between the trees, too fast for Zephyroth to track.
"Get ready," Kyra said, drawing an arrow and nocking it. "We're not alone."
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