The fog over the southern district remained thick as Seonwoo and the team prepared to face the still-lurking Shadowclaw. Silence was broken by the pulsing dark wind of Void energy, as if challenging their courage. The Hunters readied their skills, each demonstrating their unique identity and power.
Rina, her aura sharp, focused energy into her palms. "Luminous Slash," she called succinctly. A wave of sharp light shot from her sword, capable of slicing through Shadowclaw's scales with precision, targeting cracks observed from the previous battle. This attack required high focus and quick adjustment to the enemy's movement, but if successful, it opened strategic gaps.
Hyunsoo prepared Void Arrow Barrage, launching Void energy arrows that attached to the enemy and exploded in controlled bursts, creating area disruption. "Watch carefully, Seonwoo, timing is crucial," he said. The arrows pierced Shadowclaw's shadows, forcing it to alter its attack patterns.
Seonwoo, still with the lowest Job, tried to mimic their movements, yet his main focus was observation. He memorized Shadowclaw's every move—spins, leaps, claw directions—as data for the next opportunity. His instincts sharpened, though his body was not yet strong enough for meaningful offensive strikes.
Shadowclaw struck again, claws slamming into the ground, sending dark energy waves in all directions. Seonwoo rolled, feeling shards of stone and dust brush his face. He used the opening to sidestep, relying on reflexes and observation rather than brute force.
Rina spun her body, striking with Radiant Crescent, a semicircular slash that reflected energy into the air, forcing Shadowclaw to twist and evade. Hyunsoo followed with Phantom Piercer, Void arrows piercing the monster's temporary defenses, adding mental pressure.
After several minutes, Shadowclaw retreated, signaling that their sustained effort was effective. Seonwoo, exhausted, felt a new understanding of combat: each skill had its moment, every movement an opportunity to survive, and teamwork was more important than individual power. He realized the Hunter world was not just about attacking—it was about reading patterns, utilizing strength wisely, and surviving through strategy and instinct.