Alex continued walking toward the smoke he had seen at dawn, his body tense, every muscle alert, every movement calculated. With each step, he felt a strange heat flowing from within him—the cursed structure that the voice inside him had granted. It had become a part of him now.
He remembered the voice's warning: "Without power… you will be prey. Everything depends on the cursed structure."
The cursed structure wasn't just strength. It was a living technique within his body, feeding on the energy of creatures he killed, growing stronger with every strike, every combat move, every fallen creature. It was the secret that would change everything. Nobody knew about it, and no one ever would. It was his weapon and shield, his private secret.
As he moved through the dense forest, he noticed something shifting among the trees. A quick, silent movement, like the very silence itself had taken human form. He paused and focused.
It was a girl.
Her blonde hair glimmered under the morning light, and her eyes were green as the forest itself. Her features were sharp, her movements precise, like a professional hunter. She was setting small traps, tracking prey through the forest.
Alex grinned mischievously.
He stepped forward, his voice light but irritating:
> "Well, hello there… didn't expect to see a hunter here. Are you after prey, or just morning exercise?"
She raised her eyebrow, irritation flashing in her eyes, but she didn't retreat.
> "Who are you?" she asked sharply.
"What do you want?"
Alex laughed, his black eyes shining with his new confidence and the raw power of the cursed structure:
> "I'm your prey today… unless I'm feeling generous."
His sarcasm made her bristle, yet she remained alert, observing every movement he made.
> "Stay back, stranger!" she snapped, trying to contain her anger.
Alex smiled provocatively:
> "Back? I don't think so. You need someone to save you, don't you?"
At that moment, the girl realized that she might face embarrassment if she didn't act wisely. Her older sister, the village's leader, was not just any ordinary person. She was powerful, strict, known for her authority and unyielding sense of justice.
She whispered to herself:
> "Fine… if I want a lesson, I won't let him get away."
She looked at Alex again, adjusting her stance:
> "Fine… I'll take you to the village. But don't think I'm giving you anything easily!"
Alex smiled, charmingly, feeling a rush of exhilaration. The girl was beautiful, but the cursed structure heightened his senses, making his body acutely aware of every detail, every movement, every curve. His sexual tension had risen, his strength felt amplified—every sensation sharper than before.
They walked together, Alex trailing slightly behind her, enjoying the journey, teasing her lightly now and then. Her reactions—annoyance, frustration, playful scolding—amused him greatly.
As they approached the edge of the village, Alex saw something he hadn't expected:
Her older sister standing at the village entrance, tall and imposing. Her posture exuded authority; every step she took was measured, her presence commanding.
Alex froze.
It wasn't just her power that struck him, but an overwhelming allure. She was beautiful and powerful at the same time, and the cursed structure within him intensified his awareness, heightening every physical and emotional sensation.
The sister leader's gaze met his, and Alex felt it probe every layer of him. But he didn't falter. He was a handsome young man, black hair, black eyes, now merged with the cursed structure—he felt in control despite the overwhelming presence before him.
He kept the cursed structure a secret. No one would know the true source of his power—not the leader, not her sister, not anyone. It was his strength, his survival, his hidden edge.
The sister leader held her stance, observing him with a careful, evaluative gaze. Then she spoke in a firm voice:
> "Who are you? And what brings you here?"
Alex stood tall, his body radiating the power and confidence granted by the cursed structure:
> "I'm… just a traveler. But I promise, I am no threat to this village… at least, not yet."
The sister leader gave a faint smile, her eyes calculating, then said:
> "We'll see. Remember, anyone who underestimates the laws or the strength here will face the consequences."
Alex noted her words carefully. He realized this village would not be easy; true strength here was not just about combat, but also about control, demeanor, and appearance.
Inside, he felt a surge of satisfaction. The cursed structure gave him an undeniable advantage, but its secrecy was key—an untold weapon that no one could challenge.
Alex smirked to himself as he continued walking with the girl, ready for the next challenge, relishing the feeling of power, excitement, and the anticipation of what lay ahead.