Noel didn't wait. The cave was secure, the traps in place—enough reason to move. He stepped out into the forest again
The air was sharp and cool, though sunlight already broke through the canopy in fractured beams. Mist drifted between the trees, curling around roots and jagged rocks. Noel stretched once, rolling his shoulders. 'Still plenty of daylight left. Might as well get started. No sense wasting the system's generosity.'
It didn't take long. The undergrowth rattled ahead, then split as a Stonehide Boar stormed into view. Tusks like curved blades, jagged stone plates across its back, and eyes burning a dull red. The beast lowered its head and roared before thundering straight at him.
Noel stood his ground until the last moment. Then he flickered into shadow—Shadow Step carrying him to the side as the boar tore past, confused and skidding across loose earth.
"Fire Arc."
