The grass suddenly burst open.
A huge boar-like creature stepped into view—thick muscles, dark fur, and sharp tusks that curved upward like blades. Its eyes glowed a deep red, locked onto the group.
Han Yi froze.
"…Nope. Absolutely not. That thing is death with legs."
Mu Chen swallowed hard.
"…It's big… but maybe it's slow? Please let it be slow…"
Yue shook her head quickly.
"…It doesn't look slow at all…"
Lei Feng took a shaky step back.
"…I think it's staring directly at me. Why me? I didn't do anything…"
Ling raised her arm slightly, signaling everyone to stay behind her.
"Steady. Don't make sudden moves. It's watching us carefully."
The boar snorted, pawing at the ground. Dirt scattered everywhere.
Han Yi whispered sharply,
"…It's preparing to charge! Ling, why is it preparing to charge?!"
Mu Chen muttered,
"…Because life hates us, Han Yi. Accept it."
Yue's breath caught.
"…If it charges… what do we do?"
Lei Feng whispered,
