The ancient ruins stretched before Xeran, bathed in the eerie glow of the twin moons. Cracked stone pillars, half-buried statues, and the faint whispers of a forgotten era surrounded him. He didn’t know why, but something about this place felt… familiar.
[New Quest: Investigate the Ruins.]
His footsteps echoed as he moved deeper into the ruins. Strange markings lined the walls—runes that pulsed faintly with energy. His Devourer ability reacted to them, but the System remained silent.
Then, a sudden voice cut through the stillness.
“You there! Stop!”
Xeran turned to see a group of armed men in silver-plated armor standing at the entrance. Their leader, a young noble with slick blond hair and an arrogant smirk, stepped forward.
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
“I don’t recall allowing peasants to wander these ruins,” the noble sneered. “State your business or leave.”
Xeran sighed. Here we go.
“I go where I want.”
The noble’s face darkened. “You dare speak to a noble like that?”
Xeran smirked. “Did I stutter?”
The noble’s expression twisted in fury. “Kill him.”
The knights charged, swords glinting under the moonlight.
Xeran’s body moved on instinct. His Shadow Step activated, his form flickering like a phantom. He reappeared behind the first knight and drove his fist into the man’s ribs. A sickening crunch. The knight crumpled.
Before the others could react, Xeran swept his leg out, knocking two more off balance. With ruthless efficiency, he dodged a blade, grabbing the knight’s wrist and twisting it until the sword dropped.
Then, in one smooth motion, he picked up the fallen weapon and drove it through another knight’s chest.
The noble took a step back, his confidence crumbling. “W-What kind of monster…?”
Xeran approached him slowly. “You attacked first. Now, it’s my turn.”
The noble turned and ran.
Xeran exhaled, letting his power settle. He glanced at the ruins one last time. Something told him this place held secrets—secrets tied to his past.
But for now, he had more important things to deal with.
Like hunting more prey.
TO BE CONTINUED…