Chapter 8 – The First Kill

Night fell. Kairo stumbled upon a larger creature—a wolf-sized beast with glowing eyes and jagged teeth. It growled low, a sound that rattled his bones.

Adrenaline surged. Pain, rage, and betrayal fused into a single focus. Every swing of his fists drained energy from the monster, feeding his strength. His heart pounded.

When the beast collapsed, Kairo fell to his knees, panting. His hands tingled from absorbed mana, chest stronger than before.

He laughed darkly. “That’s right… feel that, n***a? I’m Ash now. I ain’t stoppin’.”

The forest was quiet again. But the night was far from safe. Monsters roamed, humans were cruel, and Lucas’ betrayal echoed in his mind. Ash stood, flexing his aching muscles. Tomorrow, he’d fight again. He’d grow stronger. And one day… everyone who doubted him would pay.