Chapter 3: The Crimson Wolf Trial

Kael Ardyn had barely caught his breath from the chaos of the Gate when a chilling howl echoed through the marketplace. His eyes scanned the shadows, and there it was—a crimson wolf, its fur like smoldering embers and eyes glowing a menacing red.

Kael’s grip tightened on his sword. He had fought weaker monsters, but this one radiated power. “Stay back,” he muttered, though he knew it wouldn’t listen.

The wolf lunged with frightening speed, teeth bared. Kael rolled to the side, feeling its jaws graze his shoulder. Pain flared sharply, but it sharpened his focus. He swung his sword, the steel connecting with the beast’s flank. The wolf yelped, staggered, and retreated a step.

Kael’s heart pounded. The world seemed to slow as he studied the wolf’s movements. Its eyes locked on him, calculating. It was intelligent, hunting not just with instinct but strategy.

“Think, Kael… you can’t just hack and slash,” he told himself.

He baited the wolf toward a fallen cart, forcing it to misstep. With a swift spin, he drove his sword upward, striking just beneath its rib. The wolf howled in pain, a mixture of fury and agony, before disappearing into a swirl of crimson mist. Kael collapsed to his knees, sweat and blood dripping down his face.

A mix of exhaustion and exhilaration washed over him. His first victory against a formidable monster alone. His sword felt heavier now, as if infused with purpose. For the first time, he felt capable. Alive.

Kael straightened, looking around at the scattered debris and fleeing villagers. Fear and awe mirrored in their eyes as they stared at him. A small, proud smile tugged at his lips.

“This… this is just the beginning,” he whispered. “I will get stronger. I will survive. No one will ever call me weak again.”

As he stood, a faint pulse of energy shimmered on his left hand—the mark of the Celestials. It throbbed softly, hinting at a power within him yet to be discovered. Kael flexed his fingers, determination burning in his chest.

He had survived his first real trial. The Crimson Wolf would not be his last challenge, but Kael Ardyn knew that with every battle, every scar, he was stepping closer to the hunter he was destined to become.