Chapter 12 – The Path Ahead
The road stretched before Luke, winding like a serpent through the forest. His new world still felt unreal — the colors brighter, the air sharper, and the weight of his second life heavy on his shoulders.
He walked in silence, but his mind whispered:
> "Power brings attention… attention invites danger… but danger can forge strength."
A shadow passed overhead — not a cloud, but a massive bird-like beast circling. Luke tightened his grip on the wooden sword he had found earlier.
In the distance, smoke rose from a small village. He quickened his pace, heart pounding. The closer he came, the more the sounds of chaos reached him — shouts, metal clashing, and the roar of something inhuman.
When he stepped into the clearing, the sight hit him hard. Houses burning, people running, and a monstrous wolf towering over the guards.
Luke didn't think — he moved. Charging forward, he swung his blade at the creature's leg. The wood cracked against fur and muscle, but it was enough to make the beast stagger.
The villagers stared, surprised at the boy who had come from nowhere.
Luke looked at them and said simply,
"If I can stand, I can fight. And if I can fight, I will."
Somewhere deep inside, he felt it — the faint echo of the man he once was… and the hero he might become.