Chapter 25: Increased Risk

Chapter 25: Increased Risk

As they continued their trekked following the path, towering trees formed a natural canopy, casting flickering shadows upon their path. The air was alive with the symphony of chirping birds, the rustling of leaves, and the distant call of unseen creatures.

Ethan's even with his senses sharpened, found himself captivated by the beauty of nature, taking in the vibrant colors and the harmonious symphony of chirping birds, graceful deers grazed peacefully in clearings, their gazes meeting Ethan's briefly before bounding away. Playful squirrels darted through the trees, their acrobatic displays captivating the him.

They continued down the path when suddenly Gavin and Marcus who were in front slowed down there pace and looked at each other, "You sense it too don't you", Marcus said to Gavin, " Yeah, I think there's a monster lurking around the bushes, monitoring us". Gavin replied, "We are going to proceed carefully, everyone be on high alert", Gavin added looking back at Ethan and Arthur.

After only moving a few more steps, suddenly, a creature emerged from the underbrush—an imposing figure with fiery eyes and razor-sharp claws. It was a fearsome forest dweller known as a Shadowcat, its sleek black fur blending seamlessly with the shadows. With a fierce growl, it lunged at Gavin, its intentions clear.

Gavin swiftly unsheathed his sword, meeting the Shadowcat's attack with calculated precision. Sword clashed against claw, their movements a dance of strength and agility. Ethan, fueled by adrenaline, channeled his water magic, conjuring water binds to ensnare the creature. The water-bound chains restricted the Shadowcat's movements, allowing Gavin to land a decisive blow, ending the encounter.

"It seems even this route is not safe again from monster attacks", he said facing Marcus, "This is probably because of the increase in monster attacks recently", Marcus replied, "From now on, we need to increase our level of concentration and be alert at all times, we don't know when another monster might appear. Arthur and Ethan replied by nodding there head signifying that they understood.