Elion Hayes never planned on being hunted. He was just a university student scraping by, no real direction, no grand purpose—until a night out turned into a waking nightmare. Because apparently, were-beasts or beast-men are real, they’re everywhere, and they don’t appreciate humans getting in their way. Now, Elion is on the run with a 'cowboy' from another world (yes, really), a best friend who’s way too excited about all of this, and a growing list of reasons to regret every life choice that led him here. At the center of it all? The Beast Rings—ancient artifacts infused with the power of monsters. Some grant strength beyond human limits. Others corrupt, turning their wielders into nightmares. And the Lord, the shadowy figure pulling the strings, plans to unleash thousands of them across the world. Elion isn’t a warrior. He doesn’t have some legendary bloodline or divine blessing. He’s just learned about Mana Gates and barely unlocked the first three of the 118 Mana Gates that allow someone to tap into their true power and to control the Beast Rings.  Before he could gain any real progress, the Lord’s most elite enforcers—the Zodiacs—and all kinds of beast-men are already closing in. The mission? Retrieve the corrupted Beast Rings before they fall into the wrong hands. Defy the Lord’s plan before the world is overrun. Survive long enough to figure out why, out of everyone, he’s been thrown into the middle of this. He and Jordan may not have been prepared for any of this, but their new ally, Ronan, isn’t giving them a choice. If they don’t fight back? The world as they know it is done. What to Expect:[+] Weak-to-Strong Protagonist – Elion starts at zero, but survival means learning fast.[+] Shapeshifters & Monster Battles – Think were-beasts, but worse.[+] Clear Progression – Unlockable powers, evolving abilities, and high stakes.[+] A Race Against Time – The Beast Rings are spreading, and humanity is not ready.[+] Ancient Powers & Forbidden Arts – 118 Mana Gates to unlock, each one unlocking something deeper.[+] Humor Meets High-Octane Action – Snark, survival, and a world that doesn’t play fair.[+] Massive World-Building & Hidden Secrets – The Beast Rings didn’t start in this world… and neither did the war. The first mistake? Getting involved.  The second? Thinking he has a choice.