A week passed after Krishak's visit to the library.
During that time, his routine became even more demanding.
By day, he attended classes at the academy, studied Earth's incomplete cultivation systems, and quietly observed the strengths and weaknesses of his peers.
By night, he cultivated with Lunafang, refined his body, and trained his clone to continue guiding the five disciples hidden in the valley.
Despite his already frightening strength, Krishak never relaxed.
He understood a truth that many cultivators forgot:
'The moment one becomes complacent, growth begins to slow. The moment growth slows, others eventually catch up. And the moment one stops adapting, the world leaves them behind.'
Tonight, however, Krishak had a different objective.
He wanted to test Lunafang in a real battle.
After evening study hours ended, Krishak slipped out of the academy grounds with Lunafang at his side.
The guards noticed the silver wolf cub but did not interfere.
Krishak had already earned enough trust that his actions were rarely questioned.
The two entered a low-risk region of Azurewood Forest.
Moonlight filtered through the branches overhead, bathing the forest floor in pale silver.
Lunafang's fur shimmered as though absorbing the light itself.
The cub's excitement was obvious through their soul bond. This was more than training.
It was their first true hunt as partners.
Krishak did not immediately search for the strongest beast in the area.
Instead, he selected a suitable opponent.
A mature Ironhide Boar.
Its cultivation was roughly equivalent to the Peak Martial Apprentice Realm. Its thick hide and aggressive temperament made it an ideal test.
Krishak crouched and touched the disturbed soil.
"Fresh tracks."
Lunafang lowered his nose and inhaled deeply.
A moment later, he looked toward the northeast.
Krishak smiled. "Lead the way."
The cub bounded ahead, moving with increasing confidence.
They found the Ironhide Boar feeding in a moonlit clearing.
The creature was nearly two meters long, with dark gray hide and sharp tusks.
Its body radiated brute strength.
Krishak sent a calm thought through the bond.
Circle left. Wait for my signal.
Lunafang slipped silently into the shadows.
Krishak moved to the front, stepping deliberately into view.
The boar snorted and charged.
At the last moment, Krishak sidestepped and struck the beast's shoulder with a palm.
Now.
Lunafang exploded from the darkness like a silver streak.
His fangs sank into the boar's exposed hind leg.
The beast roared and spun violently.
Krishak attacked again, targeting a vulnerable point behind the ear.
Seconds later, the Ironhide Boar collapsed
Lunafang released his bite and stepped back, panting.
His eyes shone with excitement and pride.
Krishak knelt beside him.
"Well done."
Through their bond, Krishak conveyed detailed feedback.
"You moved too early by half a breath."
"Your angle was excellent."
"Your bite placement was precise."
Lunafang listened attentively.
Then Krishak added, "Your restraint was good. You did not overcommit."
The cub wagged his tail.
Krishak extracted the beast core and placed it before Lunafang.
"This is yours.
Lunafang hesitated.
Krishak nodded.
"You earned it."
The cub consumed the core under Krishak's supervision.
Warm energy spread through his body.
His aura strengthened slightly.
Though the increase was modest, the psychological significance was far greater.
For the first time, Lunafang had participated in a successful hunt and received the reward of his own efforts.
As they prepared to leave, Lunafang's ears snapped upright.
A warning pulse traveled through their contract.
Krishak turned instantly.
A larger aura was approaching rapidly.
Within seconds, a Shadow Lynx emerged from the undergrowth.
Its cultivation was at the Early Martial Warrior Realm.
Its eyes were fixed on Lunafang.
Krishak remained calm.
This opponent was stronger, but still manageable.
He sent a firm thought.
Stay behind me.
Lunafang growled but obeyed.
The Shadow Lynx lunged.
Krishak met it head-on.
His movements were fluid and precise.
He avoided its claws by the narrowest margin and struck with a controlled burst of force.
The lynx was thrown backward.
Before it could recover, Krishak released a concentrated palm strike to its chest.
The beast crashed into a tree and did not rise.
Lunafang stared at Krishak with undisguised admiration.
Krishak smiled faintly.
"One day, you'll surpass this."
On the journey back to the academy, Lunafang walked with his head held high.
Krishak sensed the cub's growing confidence.
He also sensed a deepening bond.
Not because of the victory itself.
But because Lunafang had witnessed Krishak's willingness to protect him without hesitation.
Krishak looked down at his companion.
"We will grow stronger together."
Lunafang barked softly in agreement.