Chapter 8: The Edge of the Wilds (Expanded Opening)
The mission had started with cautious optimism.
Kai, Ren, and a small squad of cadets had been tasked with hunting monsters deep within the Verdant Wilds—a sprawling jungle teeming with deadly creatures both known and unknown. The Verdant Wilds were infamous for their territorial predators, ranging from swift forest raptors to hulking Razorclaws, and even strange, ethereal beasts rumored to warp reality itself.
For days, the cadets moved carefully, using stealth and scouting techniques learned at the academy. Ren had shown remarkable growth, pushing past his limits to reach High Martial Novice rank—nearly breaking into Martial Soldier territory. His agility and instincts had saved the team more than once.
But the jungle was merciless.
It wasn't long before they stumbled onto a nesting ground of Razorclaws.
The beasts attacked with brutal ferocity, ambushing the squad from every shadowed corner. In the chaos, Ren took a savage hit—a Razorclaw's claw slashing deep through his leg, shattering bone and tearing muscle. The squad was forced to retreat, but the narrow paths and thick underbrush slowed them.
Kai stayed close to Ren, helping him along while fending off relentless pursuers.
Eventually, the group was separated.
Kai found himself cut off and surrounded.
Ren lay down, unconscious, barely clinging to life.
And Kai, bloodied and exhausted, stood alone against a horde of ravenous predators—fighting to survive, fighting to protect his friend.