The first wolf slammed into my soldier. Blades flashed, tearing it apart, but two more circled fast.
Nalos darted forward, faster than I could track. His dagger buried into a wolf's eye before it hit the ground. He didn't fight like a hero—more like a predator.
Meanwhile, I swung a broken iron rod at the nearest wolf. It bounced off uselessly.
"Pathetic swing!" Nalos barked, kicking the wolf toward me. "Use your damn shadow!"
I shouted instinctively. "Soldier—help!"
My soldier reacted instantly, cutting the wolf in two. Black smoke hissed into the air.
[ Quest Progress: 2/5 Ash Wolves Defeated ]
I staggered back, chest heaving. This wasn't a game. If I slipped, I'd be torn apart.
By the time the last wolf fell, I was covered in dust and sweat.
[ Quest Complete ]
[ Reward: Shadow Upgrade – Reinforcement (Lv.1) ]
My soldier's body thickened, armor-like shadows wrapping around it.
Nalos froze again. His grin returned slowly, but his eyes were sharp. "…Not a fluke. You really are different."
For a moment, the silence was heavy. Then he finally spoke, softer this time
[END OF CHAPTER]-6