The rustling grew louder. Rio tensed, his senses sharpening. The magic in his body stirred instinctively, ready to defend or strike if needed.
From behind a thick bush, a wild boar the size of a horse crashed into view. Its eyes glowed red, saliva dripping from its tusks—clearly corrupted by mana. Without hesitation, the beast charged straight at Rio.
"Damn! No time to think!"
Rio focused, and a glowing magic circle—faint and almost invisible—formed beneath his feet. Instinct took over, guided by memories of countless games he played in his past life.
"Wind Burst!" he shouted, and a powerful gust launched him sideways, just as the boar crashed into the spot he had been standing.
The ground exploded behind him. Dirt and stones scattered. He landed with a roll, drawing the sword at his waist. The blade shimmered faintly, reacting to his aura.
"Let's test this power…"
Rio's feet slid into a battle stance. His eyes locked onto the beast.
The boar roared and charged again.
"Flame Edge!" he called out.
The sword ignited in fire, its heat merging with his aura. As the boar lunged, Rio met it head-on—his sword slashing down with enhanced strength and blazing power.
CLANG!
His blade cut deep into the boar's shoulder, the smell of burning flesh filling the air. The beast squealed in rage and pain, swinging its tusks wildly.
Rio ducked, rolled under the strike, and thrust upward.
"Piercing Light!"
A beam of focused light erupted from his blade, shooting through the boar's skull. The creature froze… then collapsed with a heavy thud.
You have defeated [Corrupted Wild Boar – Lv. 10]
Reward: +200 EXP, 3 Skill Points, Beast Hide x1, Boar Meat x2
He let out a breath, steadying himself. "That was close… but damn, this feels good."
He checked his status.
---
Status Update:
Level: 2
EXP: 20/300
Skill Points Available: 3
New Skill Unlocked:
Flame Edge (Lv. 1)
Piercing Light (Lv. 1)
Battle Title Gained: First Kill
---
As he gathered the drops and sat by a tree to rest, Rio smirked to himself.
"I just killed a level 10 beast on day one… This world might be harsh, but it's gonna be fun."
The sun was setting, and shadows grew long. He needed shelter. But for now, he was alive, stronger than before, and full of questions.
Tomorrow, he'd begin exploring the world of Althira.