The low growl of the Rift Beast echoed through the clearing, snapping Jonas back to the present. Adrenaline surged through him as he felt the familiar rush of anticipation. The creature’s glowing eyes locked onto the group, ready to strike.
“Get ready!” Grimm shouted, her weapon drawn as she stepped forward, determination etched across her face.
Jonas activated his Analyze skill on the approaching creature.
Rift Beast 5
Strength: 20
Dexterity: 12
Endurance: 15
Intelligence: 5
Weakness: Light-based attacks
Habitat: Forests near rifts
Description: Larger and more aggressive than its kin. An encounter with this creature may prove fatal if not approached with caution.
“Looks like it’s ready for a fight!” Jonas declared, gripping his dagger tightly. “Stay close!”
Grimm charged forward, a fierce battle cry erupting from her lips as she engaged the beast head-on. Felix followed closely, darting to the side to flank the creature while Korran melted into the shadows, preparing to strike when the moment was right.
“Let’s show them what we can do!” Korran whispered, his voice a silken promise of mischief.
As they fought, Jonas felt the weight of his choices pressing on him. He couldn’t shake the thought of the seductive influence of power, pulling him toward moral ambiguity. But here, in this moment, he had the chance to choose the kind of person he wanted to be.
Jonas fought alongside his companions, adrenaline coursing through him as they worked together to take down the Rift Beast. With each swing of his dagger, he could feel himself growing more skilled, more attuned to the rhythm of battle.
“Jonas! Watch out!” Grimm shouted, pulling him from his thoughts just in time. The beast lunged at him, and he sidestepped, narrowly avoiding its snapping jaws.
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“Thanks!” he shouted back, his heart racing. He realized that teamwork was crucial. If they were going to survive this world, they needed to rely on each other.
XP Gained: 100 XP
Total XP: 100/1,000 XP
Current Level: 1
New Skill Unlocked: Teamwork (Level 1)
Next Evolution: Bonded Warriors (Level 10)
With a renewed sense of purpose, Jonas focused on the battle at hand. He watched as Grimm expertly dodged the creature’s attacks, striking with precision. Felix darted in and out, his quick movements making him a blur. Korran, hidden in the shadows, prepared to unleash his own unique skills.
“Let’s finish this!” Jonas yelled, channeling his energy into his strikes. The beast was strong, but they were stronger together.
With a final coordinated effort, the group overwhelmed the Rift Beast. Grimm delivered a powerful blow, and Korran emerged from the shadows, striking with a calculated precision that sent the creature crashing to the ground.
Breathless, they stood over the defeated beast, the adrenaline still coursing through their veins.
“Well done,” Grimm said, wiping sweat from her brow. “Ye fought well, Jonas. Not bad for a first-time rift closer.”
Jonas smiled, pride swelling within him. “Thanks. I couldn’t have done it without you all.”
Korran stretched, a smug grin on his face. “Just another day in the life of adventurers! Let’s see what treasures await us!”
As they surveyed the area, Branwen approached, her expression thoughtful. “You all did well. Now, let’s see what we can craft from this victory.”
The air was thick with the scent of hot metal and sweat as they returned to the forge. Branwen wasted no time, examining the fallen beast for materials that could be useful.
“I can make you all weapons worthy of legends!” she declared, her enthusiasm infectious. “But first, what do you want?”
Jonas felt a mix of excitement and apprehension as he thought about his options. With each battle, he was becoming more aware of the skills he needed to cultivate. Would he focus on enhancing his combat abilities, or perhaps hone his stealth and survival skills?
“I think I want to focus on speed,” he said finally. “Something that will help me evade attacks more effectively.”
“Smart choice,” Branwen nodded, not looking up from her work. “A quick blade can save your life.”
As she began forging new weapons, Jonas took a moment to appreciate the camaraderie forming within the group. The energy in the air was electric, filled with possibilities and adventures yet to come. Each of them brought unique skills and perspectives to the table, and he was grateful for their support.