《Esperan-Origin》 Prologue

Prologue

Above the endless cosmos, the World Tree, Ithanashir, continues to grow upward. Each leaf on this tree nurtures a universe, and our universe is but one of those leaves. Time forms its branches, and every change within a universe sprouts new leaves on the branches¡ªthese are the parallel universes. However, at the roots of the World Tree, the Void, known as Nairos, relentlessly corrodes, seeking to devour everything. The continent of Esperan is a land with an ancient history, situated in the Pacific Ocean, yet isolated from the world by an invisible barrier. In modern times, humans remain oblivious to its existence, as the barrier not only confuses ships and airplanes trying to breach it but also leads them to believe that this area is nothing more than an ordinary stretch of ocean. The reason for this continent''s isolation traces back to a history from 30,000 years ago. 30,000 Years Ago Humans already existed and possessed the ability to wield magic, with technology comparable to that of the 21st century. In this era, the world was not solely inhabited by humans; ancient races such as elves, orcs, dragons, and demons coexisted, while the divine beings resided in Esperan. The gods symbolized the stability of the world''s laws, and their duty was to prevent the Void from consuming the world. Yet, peace is always fleeting. Driven by greed and ambition, humans initiated a ruthless massacre. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. The Nordsarss Empire, under the pretext of territorial expansion and world unification, waged a campaign of extermination against other races. Led by the Empire''s seven Archmages, human armies destroyed the Elven Forests, slaughtered the Dragons, and suppressed the Demons. Their forces were unstoppable, and soon, Esperan was the last sanctuary left in the world. Under the onslaught of humanity, the surviving races fled to Esperan, praying for the mercy of the Divine Principles. Initially indifferent to the mortal conflict¡ªseeing it as merely another cycle of life¡ªthe Divine Principles was compelled to intervene upon learning that the true orchestrator behind the war was the Abyss of the Void. It had tempted human civilization into war, intending to harvest the chaos and energy born from the conflict. Faced with the threat of the Abyss, the supreme Divine Principles finally delivered divine punishment. Thunder and flames consumed the human armies invading Esperan, colossal floods swallowed human cities, and, ultimately, the ability of humans to perceive magic was sealed, ensuring that future generations would never awaken magical powers. The end of the war shattered the Abyss''s plans. Due to the devastation of the conflict, the surviving races were on the brink of extinction. To provide them a safe haven, the divine order created a barrier, isolating Esperan from the rest of the world. Meanwhile, the Abyss did not concede defeat. Although it was not completely annihilated, it lay dormant at the roots of the World Tree, silently waiting. When the time is right, it will rise again. Chapter 1: Destiny

Outskirts of Beijing, Under a Clear Blue Sky

Sunlight danced upon the lush green leaves, casting flecks of golden light. White clouds leisurely drifted across the azure sky, a gentle breeze bringing a hint of early summer¡¯s coolness. Wildflowers swayed along the roadside, seemingly dancing joyfully for this journey. A black SUV navigated the winding mountain road, its windows half-open. Amid the rhythm of the music, laughter echoed from within. ¡°Bro, can you stop singing? You¡¯re so off-key you might as well be in outer space!¡± In the front passenger seat, Chong YunRuo covered her ears, feigning agony as laughter sparkled in her crescent-shaped eyes. ¡°You just don¡¯t appreciate fine art! Your big brother here has a golden voice!¡± Chong Yue wore a smug grin as his fingers tapped along with the beat on the steering wheel. Sunlight filtered through the car window, illuminating his handsome face with a bright glow. From the back seat, Lu WenYuan was already laughing uncontrollably, clutching the headrest. ¡°Yue, stop roasting yourself. You¡¯re way more convincing as a double master in finance and management. But that voice... maybe keep it to the shower concerts.¡± ¡°You cheeky brat! Lucky for you I¡¯m in a good mood after graduation, or I¡¯d kick you out of the car!¡± Chong Yue mock-scolded him, but his speed didn¡¯t decrease one bit. The scenic outskirts of Beijing unfurled around them, rolling green hills and clear waters stretching endlessly. The air was fragrant with fresh grass and blooming wildflowers. ¡°Hahaha, no, don¡¯t! I was just looking forward to tasting Yunruo¡¯s cooking on this camping trip!¡± Lu Wenyuan turned to Yunruo with exaggerated sincerity. ¡°Yunruo, your brother¡¯s always bragged about your cooking skills back in college. Don¡¯t let me down!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll be begging for more!¡± Yunruo¡¯s confident reply was accompanied by a radiant smile. The SUV drove into a vast meadow, the distant lake shimmering under the sunlight. ¡°Wow, this is beautiful!¡± Yunruo jumped out, spreading her arms wide and taking a deep breath of the fresh air. ¡°Yue, you really know how to pick a spot. This place is perfect for camping!¡± Lu Wenyuan followed, his eyes filled with admiration for the magnificent landscape. ¡°Of course! I did my homework.¡± Chong Yue slung his backpack over his shoulder, flashing a confident smile. ¡°Alright, enough sightseeing. Let¡¯s pitch the tents. We¡¯re spending the night here.¡± Under the scorching sun, three tents stood firmly on the verdant grass, gently swaying in the breeze. Yunruo squatted nearby, sorting out cooking utensils, while Lu Wenyuan was busy lighting the fire. Chong Yue, meanwhile, lay leisurely on the grass, hands behind his head, gazing contentedly at the drifting clouds. ¡°Hey, big bro!¡± Yunruo poked him with a twig. ¡°Stop lazing around! We still need more firewood!¡± ¡°What? I¡¯m the driver! After a long drive, you still want me to gather wood?¡± Chong Yue grumbled, ¡°You two aren¡¯t exactly busy either.¡± Lu Wenyuan¡¯s eyes sparkled mischievously. ¡°Alright, to be fair, let¡¯s play rock-paper-scissors. Loser collects the firewood.¡± ¡°Deal!¡± Yunruo agreed without hesitation. The three formed a circle, their fists poised mid-air. ¡°One, two, three!¡± ¡°Haha! Chong Yue, you lost!¡± This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Yunruo burst into laughter, clapping her hands gleefully. ¡°Off you go! And no slacking!¡± ¡°Alright, alright, I¡¯m going!¡± Chong Yue stood up, brushing the grass off his clothes. ¡°You two didn¡¯t rig this, did you?¡± As he walked deeper into the woods, the light dimmed gradually. With a bag in hand, Chong Yue hummed a tune while picking up dry branches. Dappled sunlight danced through the leaves, the air heavy with the scent of damp earth. ¡°That¡¯s strange¡­¡± He halted, noticing the surroundings growing darker. Shadows intertwined on the ground, and an eerie atmosphere enveloped him. ¡°It was just midday¡­ Why does it feel like dusk?¡± Looking around, he realized that the deeper parts of the woods were shrouded in darkness. Even the chirping of insects had vanished, leaving behind an unsettling silence. Ahead, a faint golden light flickered, as if beckoning him. Frowning, Chong Yue¡¯s curiosity got the better of him, and he moved towards the light. Pushing through dense bushes, he stumbled upon ancient ruins. Half-buried in the earth, the remnants of an old structure were overgrown with vines and moss. The stone walls were etched with ancient symbols and patterns. In the center of the ruins stood a stone pillar radiating a gentle, golden glow. It exuded an inexplicable allure. ¡°What¡­ is this place?¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes widened. Unable to resist, he reached out to touch the pillar. The moment his fingers made contact, golden light burst forth, engulfing everything around him. An echoing voice, low and distant, reverberated through his mind, as if carried across time and space. ¡°...Go to Titan''s Peak... The Wheel of Destiny has begun to turn¡­¡± As the light faded, Chong Yue opened his eyes and found himself standing in an unfamiliar land. ¡°What the hell¡­ Where did I end up???¡± He scanned his surroundings, taking in the rolling hills and lush forests. The ground was blanketed in thick moss, soft and springy underfoot. In the distance, a sparkling stream wound its way through the landscape, reflecting the sunlight with a silvery sheen. ¡°Wenyuan! Yunruo!¡± He shouted, but only his echo answered back from the depths of the forest. Frantically, he pulled out his phone. The screen lit up¡ª No signal. ¡°Damn it! Not even a signal.¡± He pocketed his phone, frustration etched across his face. ¡°Where the heck am I? This doesn¡¯t look like the outskirts of Beijing¡­ Could it be¡­?¡± Just when he looking around, Chong Yue recalled the words he¡¯d heard before losing consciousness: ¡°...Go to Titan''s Peak... The Wheel of Destiny has begun to turn¡­¡± ¡°Titan¡¯s Peak?¡± He murmured, his eyes flickering with realization. ¡°If it¡¯s a ¡®peak¡¯¡­ then it must be a mountain.¡± Scanning his surroundings, he fixed his gaze on the tallest tree. ¡°To figure out where I am¡­ I need to get a better view.¡± Gripping the thick trunk, he climbed with agility. His movements were swift and practiced, navigating the moss-covered surface with ease. ¡°Phew... Good thing I practiced martial arts with the neighborhood grandpas,¡± Chong Yue sighed in relief, silently grateful for the training as he continued his ascent with renewed determination. Finally reaching the top, he broke through the canopy, his eyes widening at the breathtaking view. In the distance, a majestic mountain towered into the sky, its peaks shrouded in mist. Bathed in sunlight, the summit glowed with a mystical blue hue, surrounded by a halo of rainbow light. ¡°Titan¡¯s Peak¡­¡± Chong Yue held his breath, his gaze fixed on the towering mountain in the distance. His heartbeat quickened, as if an invisible force was calling out to him. His eyes were locked onto the distant Titan''s Peak, and the echo of the voice he had heard earlier resounded in his mind: ¡°...Go to Titan''s Peak... The Wheel of Destiny has begun to turn¡­¡± ¡°So, this is the clue¡­¡± ¡°No phone signal here¡­ That means either I¡¯m in some remote corner of the world¡­ or I¡¯ve been transported somewhere far beyond.¡± ¡°No matter what¡­ my only clue right now is that mountain.¡± He narrowed his eyes, deep in thought for a moment. ¡°Looks like¡­ the only way forward is to follow this lead.¡± Climbing down from the tree, his feet landed on the soft moss below, but his heart felt as heavy as a mountain. His gaze drifted towards the Titan¡¯s Peak piercing the sky, his expression a mixture of anxiety and resolve. ¡°Yunruo¡­¡± He murmured under his breath. In his mind¡¯s eye, he saw Yunruo anxiously searching for him, perhaps even trapped in this place alongside him. His fists tightened unconsciously. ¡°No. Now¡¯s not the time to lose my head.¡± Taking a deep breath, Chong Yue forced himself to stay calm. He adjusted the bag he had filled with firewood and steeled himself for the journey ahead. His eyes locked onto the distant mountain that seemed to touch the heavens, a spark of determination igniting within. With one last look at the forest behind him, Chong Yue took his first step towards Titan¡¯s Peak Chapter 2: Encounter Chong Yue continued his journey towards Titan¡¯s Peak, the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense forest and scattering across the lush green grass. A gentle breeze drifted by, carrying an unusual fragrance, a blend of faint nectar and the moist scent of earth. He looked around, his gaze inevitably captivated by the surrounding scenery. Everything here appeared unfamiliar and mysterious. The trees were towering and peculiar, their branches and leaves sparkling as if made of crystal, refracting rays of colorful light. Not far away, a vine adorned with blue blossoms coiled around an ancient tree. The petals swayed gently in the breeze, emitting a faint glow. Even more astonishingly, tiny luminescent butterflies fluttered out from the blossoms. They were delicate and dreamlike, their wings shimmering with tiny specks of light as they danced gracefully through the air. ¡°These plants¡­ I¡¯ve never seen anything like them before.¡± Chong Yue couldn¡¯t resist reaching out to touch the blue petal. It felt soft and cool to the touch. As he gently squeezed it, a few drops of crystal-clear liquid oozed out, releasing a faint, refreshing fragrance. Just as he was marveling at this discovery, a strange little creature leaped out from the bushes. It was shaped like a rabbit; but was like nothing I had ever seen before. Strange, yet elegant. Crystal clear eyes, three sets of ears, and a tail as fluffy as a pom-pom The little beast curiously stared at Chong Yue, blinking its bright, watery eyes before swiftly bouncing back into the bushes, vanishing without a trace. ¡°What is this place¡­? Could it be that I¡¯ve really been transported to another world?¡± Chong Yue frowned, his heart swirling with confusion and unease. After walking for most of the day, Chong Yue arrived at a clear, flowing stream. The water babbled along, the sunlight dancing on its surface like scattered gold. He squatted down, scooping up a handful of the cool stream water and took a few sips. It was fresh and sweet, infused with the pure essence of nature. ¡°This water is so refreshing¡­ At least there¡¯s no pollution here.¡± Feeling slightly more at ease, he leaned against a large tree, intending to rest for a while. Just then, a rustling sound suddenly came from the bushes behind him. Chong Yue immediately turned around, his sharp eyes fixed on the thicket. ¡°What was that?¡± Before he could finish his sentence, a stone spear whistled through the air, hurtling straight at him! His instincts kicked in, and he rolled to the side just in time. The spear grazed his shoulder, embedding itself deeply into the ground. Its tail quivered violently from the impact. ¡°That was close! Almost game over!¡± Without hesitation, he grabbed a sturdy tree branch nearby, gripping it tightly as he assumed a defensive stance. The rustling in the bushes grew louder, and then three goblins leaped out from the thicket. They brandished crude stone weapons, their eyes gleaming with malice and their fangs bared. ¡°Ugly little creatures...¡± Chong Yue frowned, but there was no time to think. The goblins let out guttural roars as they charged at him. ¡°Yaaargh¡ª!¡± All three goblins swung their wooden clubs down viciously. Chong Yue took a deep breath and swiftly sidestepped, using the momentum to sweep his branch low, striking one goblin¡¯s ankle. ¡°Graaah¡ª!¡± The goblin howled in pain, losing its balance and crashing to the ground. Seizing the opportunity, Chong Yue swung his branch again, smashing it into another goblin¡¯s head, sending it sprawling to the dirt. But before he could catch his breath, more goblins emerged from the bushes, quickly surrounding him. ¡°Damn it, I¡¯m surrounded!¡± With his back against a tree, Chong Yue tightened his grip on the branch, sweat trickling down his forehead. Just as death seemed imminent, a swift figure burst out from behind the goblins. It was a young girl, her movements lightning-fast as she wielded a gleaming dagger. In a flash of silver, blood sprayed from the necks of the two leading goblins. They collapsed to the ground, lifeless. The girl moved with incredible agility, weaving through the goblins like a phantom. In the blink of an eye, three more goblins fell, their blood staining the grass red. Chong Yue stood in shock, his mouth agape at the scene before him. ¡°That speed... Who is she?¡± Snapping back to his senses, he swung his branch, knocking back a goblin that lunged at him. With a swift, precise thrust, the girl drove her dagger through the throat of the last goblin. The fight was over. She stood amidst the goblins'' corpses, her cold eyes locked onto Chong Yue. Her gaze was filled with caution and hostility, as cold and merciless as a predator sizing up its next prey. ¡°Hey, thanks for just now¡ª¡± Before he could finish, the girl dashed towards him without warning, her dagger slicing through the air aimed straight at his throat! ¡°What the¡ª?!¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes widened in shock. He instinctively raised his branch to block, but the dagger cut through it effortlessly. Before he could react, the girl spun and delivered a powerful kick, sending him flying backward. He crashed hard onto the ground, pain jolting through his body. "W-wait! I¡¯m not your enemy!" Chong Yue shouted hastily, struggling to his feet as he raised both hands to show he meant no harm. The girl halted her attack but maintained her guarded stance. Her violet eyes narrowed, sharp as blades, fixed unwaveringly on his every move. A breeze rustled through the forest, lifting her jet-black hair, which brushed softly against her face. She was dressed in a fitted black suit, its tailored lines highlighting her lean, agile figure, giving her an aura of fierce elegance and decisiveness. Her violet eyes gleamed coldly in the sunlight, exuding a sense of danger and alertness, like a predator lurking in the shadows. Chong Yue unconsciously held his breath. Despite the tension in the air, he couldn¡¯t help but notice her delicate features and porcelain-white skin, a cold yet mesmerizing beauty. But then his eyes caught sight of something else¡ªher body was covered in cuts and bandages, especially on her right leg where the bandages were soaked in blood, the crimson trail trickling down her calf. These injuries didn¡¯t seem to be from her fight with the goblins. They looked more like wounds inflicted by a much sharper blade. ¡°What... exactly has she been through?¡± A wave of curiosity and concern surged through Chong Yue¡¯s mind. He stared at her, momentarily forgetting to continue his explanation. The girl¡¯s brow furrowed slightly, a flash of killing intent glimmering in her violet eyes as she raised her dagger once more, the blade reflecting a cold, lethal light. ¡°Crap!¡± Chong Yue snapped back to his senses, shouting urgently, ¡°W-wait! I really am not your enemy!¡± He quickly took a step back, raising both hands to show he meant no harm, his words tumbling out rapidly, ¡°I don¡¯t even know why I¡¯m here! The last thing I remember¡­ I touched a glowing pillar in the forest, and then I was transported here! I don¡¯t know anything about this place!¡± The girl maintained her combat stance, her gaze cold and sharp as she scrutinized him for several tense seconds. After a long pause, she finally lowered her dagger, though her eyes were still filled with caution. The hostility in her gaze seemed to soften, just a little. Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Without saying a word, she shot him one last icy glance before turning around and walking away. Her jet-black hair swayed gently, and her fitted black suit glistened faintly under the sunlight. Her figure soon vanished into the shadows of the forest. ¡°W-wait!¡± Chong Yue stood stunned for a second before hurriedly chasing after her, but she was already gone, her presence disappearing among the shadows of the trees. He stood there, bewildered, staring in the direction she had left, his mind swirling with questions. ¡°Who was she? Why was she here?¡± He recalled her unusual black suit, a stark contrast to the strange forest teeming with bizarre plants and monsters. Her body was covered in cuts and bandages, suggesting she had been injured for a long time, yet her movements were swift as the wind, and her combat prowess was terrifyingly strong. ¡°Could it be¡­ that she was transported here just like me?¡± A spark of curiosity flashed in Chong Yue¡¯s eyes. ¡°And she was heading towards Titan¡¯s Peak¡­¡± He considered following her to get some answers, but just as he took a step forward, a sudden thud echoed from ahead. ¡°Damn it!¡± He rushed forward, pushing aside the bushes blocking his way. The sight before him made his pupils contract. The girl was lying on the ground, her hair disheveled and scattered across the grass. The wound on her right leg had reopened, blood soaking through the fabric of her black pants. Her face was pale as paper, and her eyes were tightly shut. ¡°Hey! Are you alright? Hey!¡± Chong Yue dropped to his knees and checked her breathing, relieved to find she was only unconscious from blood loss and exhaustion. ¡°Damn, she¡¯s hurt this badly¡­¡± He looked at her battered body, recalling how she had fought so fiercely despite her injuries. A wave of respect rose within him. ¡°It looks like her wounds were serious long before this. She was just pushing herself through sheer willpower.¡± His brow furrowed, eyes flickering with determination. ¡°A gentleman wouldn¡¯t leave a damsel in distress.¡± ¡°Ah, no. Saving a life comes first.¡± He bent down, carefully lifting her onto his back. Supporting her legs with his hands, he was mindful to avoid her wounds as much as possible. The girl''s body was unexpectedly light, soft, and cold to the touch. Her head rested gently on Chong Yue''s shoulder, her jet-black hair brushing against his cheek with a faint, delicate fragrance. Chong Yue took a deep breath, suppressing the complicated emotions stirring within him as he moved forward. ¡°This place is too dangerous. I need to find a safe spot to tend to her wounds.¡± As the golden hues of dusk filled the forest, the campfire crackled under an ancient tree, its flickering flames casting warm light around. The fire danced softly, roasting mushrooms skewered on a stick, their enticing aroma wafting through the air. Chong Yue leaned against the tree trunk, rotating the stick to evenly cook the mushrooms while his gaze remained fixed on the unconscious girl. She lay quietly on the ground, her black hair cascading over her shoulders, her face pale but delicately beautiful. ¡°What a strange person¡­ That outfit, those combat skills, and those wounds¡­¡± Chong Yue muttered under his breath, his eyes drifting to her thigh, which was tightly wrapped in bandages. He recalled the horrific gashes he had seen while tending to her wounds¡ªdeep cuts that looked as if they had been slashed by a razor-sharp blade. ¡°Those injuries¡­ Who did this to her?¡± He shook his head, his heart weighed down by curiosity and unease. At that moment, the girl''s eyelids fluttered, then suddenly shot open. Her violet eyes gleamed with coldness and caution, and like a startled beast, she sprang to her feet with remarkable agility, leaping backward to create distance. ¡°Hey, calm down! Be careful, your wounds might reopen!¡± Chong Yue was startled, quickly getting up in an attempt to reassure her. The girl swiftly widened the gap between them, her eyes filled with vigilance as her hand instinctively went to the hilt of her dagger. She scanned her surroundings before her gaze settled on her bandaged wounds. A flash of surprise flickered in her eyes. ¡°My name is Chong Yue. I¡¯m from China. What about you?¡± He deliberately softened his tone, hoping to ease her wariness. However, the girl remained in a defensive stance, her expression unchanged. Her eyes were cold and piercing, a flicker of confusion flashing in her violet pupils before being quickly masked by caution. Chong Yue frowned slightly, feeling the tension thickening between them. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± He tried again, keeping his voice gentle. But the girl stayed silent, her lips tightly pressed together, maintaining a safe distance with her wary gaze fixed on him. The flickering campfire cast shadows across her icy eyes, reflecting no warmth at all. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m not going to eat you. No need to be so guarded, right?¡± Chong Yue forced a wry smile, shrugging his shoulders. The girl still didn¡¯t respond, but the confusion in her eyes seemed to deepen. Suddenly, Chong Yue realized something¡ªperhaps she didn¡¯t understand his language at all. ¡°Wait a minute¡­ Could it be¡­ she doesn¡¯t understand Chinese?¡± The realization hit Chong Yue like a bolt of lightning, leaving him both amused and exasperated. ¡°No way¡­ I¡¯ve been speaking Chinese this whole time. Did she seriously not understand a single word?¡± He hesitated for a moment before testing his theory, ¡°Do you speak English?¡± For the first time, the girl¡¯s expression changed. Her violet eyes widened slightly, and a faint crease appeared on her brow. ¡°English?¡± She echoed the word softly, a hint of confusion in her voice. It suddenly dawned on Chong Yue, and he facepalmed in disbelief. ¡°No wonder you were so quiet¡­ You didn¡¯t understand a word I was saying!¡± He shook his head with a wry smile, then switched to English and introduced himself again, ¡°My name is Chong Yue. What¡¯s your name?¡± The girl¡¯s expression finally softened a bit, though she still kept her guard up. After a few moments of silence, she spoke in a low voice, ¡°Tsukimi Eika.¡± ¡°You can just call me Eika.¡± Her stance finally relaxed, though she still kept her distance from me Her gaze was still cautious, but the hostility had noticeably lessened. ¡°Tsukimi Eika¡­ Japanese?¡± Chong Yue let out a long breath, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. ¡°Looks like communication just got a little easier.¡± The firelight danced softly between them, the gentle breeze carrying the faint scent of grass and wood. Over the campfire, the mushrooms were roasting to a golden brown, releasing a mouth-watering aroma as the juices dripped onto the flames with a satisfying sizzle. Chong Yue used a stick to flip the mushrooms, his gaze occasionally drifting towards Eika across the fire. The girl remained in guard, keeping at least two meters between them. Her violet eyes gleamed with a cold, wary light. The atmosphere was heavy with silence and awkward tension. Chong Yue sighed inwardly, realizing that if they kept this up, neither of them would get any sleep tonight. Suddenly, an idea came to him. He raised the roasted mushrooms with a friendly smile, breaking the silence, ¡°The mushrooms are ready. You can eat them without worry¡ªI survived yesterday thanks to these.¡± Eika¡¯s eyebrow arched slightly, a flicker of hesitation passing through her violet eyes. She slowly approached the campfire, her gaze fixed on the golden, fragrant mushrooms, but she didn¡¯t reach out to take any. Standing by the fire, she stared at the food for over ten seconds, her fingers twitching slightly, yet she made no move. Watching her guarded demeanor, Chong Yue couldn¡¯t help but shake his head in quiet exasperation. ¡°This woman is way too cautious.¡± Chong Yue grumbled inwardly but then remembered the wounds on Eika¡¯s body. Judging by her injuries, she must have gone through something traumatic before being transported here. Her wariness was understandable. ¡°See? No poison.¡± To prove his point, he picked up a skewer of mushrooms and took a big bite, chewing with obvious enjoyment. ¡°Hmm, not bad! Would be even better with some salt and oil.¡± A subtle flicker crossed Eika¡¯s eyes, but she still didn¡¯t move. She continued to watch him in silence. Chong Yue felt a bit uncomfortable under her intense gaze but pretended not to notice, calmly finishing his food. Minutes ticked by slowly. Finally, after a full five minutes, Eika hesitantly picked up a skewer of mushrooms. She paused for a moment before taking a small, cautious bite. Her expression remained indifferent, but a faint look of surprise flashed in her eyes. ¡°Tastes pretty good, huh?¡± Chong Yue asked with a smile, but Eika didn¡¯t respond. She simply continued eating in silence. ¡°This woman¡­ Her guard is seriously up.¡± Chong Yue sighed inwardly, shaking his head. The two of them ate the roasted mushrooms in silence, maintaining a delicate distance between them. Chong Yue glanced at Eika, noticing how slowly and carefully she ate, taking small, measured bites. Deciding to break the awkward silence, he let out a soft sigh and spoke up, ¡°I¡¯m from China. I was just camping with my sister and a friend when I accidentally touched some ancient ruins¡­ and then I ended up here.¡± Eika listened quietly, a subtle flicker passing through her violet eyes before her expression returned to its usual coldness. She was silent for a moment before speaking in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯m from Japan. I was also transported here by some unknown force.¡± ¡°Well, what are the odds!¡± Chong Yue nodded thoughtfully, then asked curiously, ¡°Did you also hear that voice?¡± Eika gave a slight nod, her face remaining emotionless. ¡°Yes. It guided me to go to Titan¡¯s Peak.¡± ¡°Looks like we¡¯re headed to the same place.¡± Chong Yue¡¯s gaze drifted to the distant mountain piercing the clouds. ¡°Maybe there¡¯s a clue there about how to get back home.¡± Eika didn¡¯t respond. She lowered her head and continued eating the roasted mushrooms. Her movements were still cautious, her eyes never fully letting go of their vigilance. It was clear she hadn¡¯t completely dropped her guard. After dinner, the flames of the campfire softened, casting a warm glow on the clearing beneath the ancient tree. Chong Yue dusted off his hands and looked up, his gaze softening as he looked at Eika. ¡°Thanks for saving me earlier. If it weren¡¯t for you, I¡¯d probably be goblin dinner by now.¡± His voice was sincere and grateful, his eyes reflecting genuine warmth. Eika¡¯s eyes widened slightly, a look of surprise flickering in her violet gaze. She hesitated before softly replying, ¡°I should be the one thanking you¡­ If you hadn¡¯t helped bandage my wounds, I¡¯d be dead by now.¡± Her gaze slowly drifted over her neatly bandaged wounds. Chong Yue smiled and waved his hand dismissively, ¡°It was just mutual help. This place is dangerous, after all. Having someone to watch your back isn¡¯t a bad thing.¡± His smile was warm and sincere, his eyes radiating genuine kindness. Eika remained silent for a moment, her eyes softening. She gave a small nod, a flicker of gratitude flashing in her violet eyes before her expression returned to its usual coldness. Their eyes met, and they both exchanged faint smiles. The tension and hostility between them seemed to dissolve in that fleeting moment. Night fell, and moonlight bathed the ancient tree, the campfire gradually burning out. They rested against the tree trunk, a gentle breeze carrying the warmth and tranquility of the earth. After a night of recovery, Chong Yue and Eika finally decided to move forward together. They shared the same destination¡ªTitan¡¯s Peak¡ªand were both brought to this world by a mysterious force. ¡°Well, since we¡¯re headed to the same place, let¡¯s travel together. There are too many unknowns here, and two people are better than one.¡± Chong Yue suggested with a smile, his gaze firm and reassuring. Eika looked at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of thought and hesitation. After a moment of silence, she finally gave a slight nod. ¡°In that case¡­I have your back.¡± Chapter 3: Crisis Dawn was just breaking, the eastern sky tinged with a faint glow as dewdrops sparkled on the blades of grass. Under the ancient tree, the campfire had long since burned out, wisps of smoke lingering in the air with a faint scent of roasted mushrooms. Chong Yue woke up, rubbing the drowsiness from his eyes as he stretched his limbs. He glanced around and saw that Eika was already awake, sitting nearby with her gaze alertly scanning the surroundings. Her arms were crossed as she leaned quietly against the tree trunk, her violet eyes cold and cautious. ¡°Up early, huh?¡± Chong Yue yawned, sitting up as he dusted off the dirt clinging to his clothes. ¡°Looks like you¡¯re recovering well. Does your leg still hurt?¡± Eika frowned slightly, glancing down at her neatly bandaged leg before replying indifferently, ¡°I can walk¡­ barely.¡± Chong Yue nodded, then picked up his backpack from the ground and began rummaging through his supplies. ¡°Looks like we need to keep moving today. Let¡¯s see what we¡¯ve got to work with.¡± He pulled out each item from his backpack, laying them on the ground to take inventory: Chong Yue sighed helplessly, ¡°That¡¯s all I¡¯ve got. No food, no water¡­ This is as bad as it gets.¡± He shrugged with a bitter smile and looked over at Eika, ¡°What about you?¡± Without saying much, Eika moved with swift precision, laying out her belongings: Their eyes met, a shared look of helplessness passing between them. ¡°Are we here to collect junk or something?¡± Chong Yue laughed bitterly, ¡°No food, no water, and we¡¯ve got no idea how long it¡¯ll take to find a way out.¡± Eika frowned slightly, her eyes serious, ¡°We need to find food soon, or we¡¯ll starve.¡± She tapped her fingers lightly on the hilt of her dagger, her sharp gaze scanning the surroundings, ¡°This environment is completely unfamiliar. We need to figure out the terrain and resources as soon as possible.¡± Chong Yue nodded in agreement, his eyes involuntarily drifting to the towering Titan¡¯s Peak in the distance. ¡°Our goal is Titan¡¯s Peak, but who knows how long it¡¯ll take to get there¡­¡± He paused before adding, ¡°And we have no idea what we¡¯ll encounter along the way.¡± After a moment of silence, Eika broke the stillness, her voice calm and steady, ¡°Chong Yue, where do you think this place is?¡± Chong Yue frowned slightly, a thoughtful look in his eyes. ¡°I can¡¯t say for sure, but¡­ I think we¡¯re probably still on Earth.¡± Eika¡¯s eyebrows arched in surprise, ¡°What makes you think that?¡± Chong Yue looked up at the sky, his tone firm, ¡°Last night, I looked at the night sky. I saw the Big Dipper and the Southern Cross.¡± He paused, his gaze growing more serious, ¡°I¡¯m no astronomer, but I do know that those two constellations can only be seen together from certain latitudes on Earth.¡± Eika¡¯s expression shifted slightly, a thoughtful glimmer flashing in her violet eyes. ¡°So¡­ you¡¯re saying¡­ we¡¯re still on Earth?¡± ¡°Yes, and judging by the position of the Big Dipper, we¡¯re likely somewhere just south of the equator.¡± Chong Yue gestured with his hands, tracing the positions of the constellations as he continued, ¡°The Big Dipper was very close to the horizon, while the Southern Cross was high up in the sky. That combination only happens near the equator.¡± Eika slowly nodded, though a hint of doubt lingered in her voice, ¡°South of the equator¡­ But then why are the plants and animals here so strange?¡± Her eyes swept over the bizarre flora around them, confusion evident in her tone, ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of a place like this on Earth.¡± Chong Yue let out a wry chuckle and shrugged, ¡°To be honest, I find it pretty strange too.¡± They stood silently under the ancient tree, their gazes drawn to the distant Titan¡¯s Peak. The towering mountain stood majestically, piercing the sky. Its summit was shrouded in layers of swirling mist, giving it an ethereal, almost otherworldly appearance, like something out of a legend. Despite the swirling questions in their minds, they both knew that their only lead was that mountain. Whatever the mysterious voice was, however they were transported here¡ªperhaps all the answers awaited them atop Titan¡¯s Peak. Chong Yue took a deep breath and looked at Eika, ¡°Looks like we need to make it there alive first.¡± He pointed at Titan¡¯s Peak, his eyes filled with determination, ¡°Maybe that mountain holds the answers we¡¯re looking for.¡± Eika gave a slight nod, a thoughtful glint in her violet eyes, ¡°Yes, but before that, we need to survive.¡± She surveyed their surroundings, her gaze sharp and calculating, ¡°If we get trapped halfway by hunger or danger, we¡¯ll never reach Titan¡¯s Peak.¡± Chong Yue nodded, his expression growing serious, ¡°So before we set out, we need to be prepared.¡± They quickly went through their supplies, assessing their current food and water situation. Before long, they came to a troubling conclusion: Their supplies were severely lacking¡ªpractically down to nothing. ¡°This won¡¯t do. We need food and at least some basic weapons.¡± Chong Yue frowned, his eyes scanning the dense forest around them, ¡°If we run into those creatures from yesterday, I don¡¯t fancy punching them to death.¡± Eika nodded slightly, her eyes cold and alert, ¡°First, let¡¯s search the area for edible wild fruits. Food is the top priority.¡± With that, she drew her dagger and moved swiftly, scouting the area for berries and plants that could be eaten. Not wanting to be outdone, Chong Yue followed suit, searching the undergrowth. Before long, he found a bush laden with bright red berries, each one plump and giving off an enticing fragrance. ¡°Hey, Eika! These berries look edible. What do you think?¡± He picked one of the berries, but instead of eating it, he handed it to Eika for inspection. Eika took the berry, sniffing it carefully before using her dagger to make a small cut, examining the color of the flesh and the juice. ¡°The scent is fresh, no pungent odor. The flesh looks tender.¡± She glanced at Chong Yue, ¡°Hold out your hand.¡± ¡°Huh? Why?¡± Chong Yue asked suspiciously but slowly extended his hand. Without another word, Eika smeared a bit of the berry juice on the back of his hand. ¡°Wait five minutes. If you feel any irritation or see any reaction, let me know.¡± With that, she turned and continued searching for other edible plants without looking back. ¡°So I¡¯m the guinea pig, huh?¡± Chong Yue sighed and shook his head, resigned to his fate. Five minutes passed, and nothing happened. No itching, no redness. ¡°It looks like the berries are safe to eat,¡± Eika said confidently. ¡°Hey!I am mentally hurt here?¡± Chong Yue grumbled about being the test subject but began carefully picking the berries and placing them in his backpack. With the food problem temporarily solved, they turned their attention to crafting simple weapons for defense. Although Eika¡¯s dagger was sharp, it wouldn¡¯t be enough against larger creatures. They needed better tools to survive what lay ahead. Chong Yue had an idea and gathered several sturdy, straight branches from nearby. Using Eika¡¯s dagger, he sharpened the ends into makeshift wooden spears. He swung one experimentally, then thrust it against a tree trunk. The sharpened tip sank deep into the bark. ¡°Not bad¡­ Pretty decent power.¡± Satisfied, he nodded and crafted a few more, handing several to Eika. Eika took the spears, giving one a light swing. Her movements were swift and precise, the spear whistling through the air. ¡°Crude, but they¡¯ll do for self-defense.¡± She assessed calmly, then slung the spears over her back, smoothly sheathing her dagger at her waist. Watching her efficient, agile movements, Chong Yue couldn¡¯t help but remark, ¡°You¡¯re pretty impressive. Even with such serious injuries, you¡¯re still this nimble. What were you before all this?¡± Eika didn¡¯t answer, merely giving him a cold glance. She paused, a complicated look briefly flashing in her eyes before her expression returned to its usual coldness. Once they were ready, they packed their backpacks, taking the berries and wooden spears with them. Chong Yue pointed to the nearby stream and suggested, ¡°If we follow the stream upstream, at least we won¡¯t have to worry about water.¡± Eika nodded, ¡°And the stream leads toward Titan¡¯s Peak.¡± Her violet eyes gleamed with determination, a silent resolve evident in her stance. ¡°Let¡¯s go. Whatever lies ahead, we need to find out.¡± With a resolute look in his eyes, Chong Yue took the lead, stepping forward. Eika followed closely behind. The two of them walked slowly along the gently flowing stream, its crystal-clear water reflecting their weary yet resolute figures. Sunlight filtered through the dense leaves above, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow on the ground. The air was filled with the fresh scent of grass and foliage. If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. They continued along the stream, eating the berries to stave off hunger. The sweet and sour juice tingled on their tongues, easing their hunger but leaving them far from satisfied. ¡°These berries taste good, but they¡¯re not filling at all¡­¡± Chong Yue complained with a wry smile, his eyes drifting longingly to the sky. ¡°If only we had some meat.¡± Eika responded coldly, ¡°Save your breath and conserve your energy.¡± Chong Yue sighed helplessly. They walked for what felt like hours before finally emerging from the dense forest. Their view suddenly expanded as they stepped into a vast, open plain. Endless green grass stretched out before them, rippling in the wind like waves on the ocean. The gentle breeze rustled the grass, creating a soft whispering sound as sunlight bathed the landscape in vibrant green. In the distance, a chain of mountains encircled the plain like a natural fortress. Amidst those peaks, Titan¡¯s Peak towered above them all, piercing the sky like a colossal pillar that connected earth to heaven. Amidst the tranquil and awe-inspiring landscape, a low, rhythmic chewing sound suddenly echoed across the plain. Chong Yue and Eika turned towards the source of the noise. There, scattered across the vast grasslands, was a herd of strange creatures. They were massive and muscular, standing about two meters tall and four meters long. Their bodies were covered in dense, curly wool of a pale yellow hue, soft and fluffy like cotton. Their heads and horns resembled those of bulls, with thick, curved horns that arched outward, giving them a majestic and powerful appearance. These creatures moved in groups, grazing leisurely on the lush grass. Occasionally, they would raise their heads, their deep, gentle eyes gazing calmly into the distance. Their movements were slow and graceful, their fluffy, pom-pom-like tails swaying gently as they walked, exuding a sense of peace and tranquility. ¡°What are those things?¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes widened, filled with curiosity and wonder. ¡°They look like a mix between sheep and cattle¡­ but they¡¯re much bigger, and those horns are enormous¡­¡± Eika didn¡¯t answer. Her eyes remained cautious, observing the strange creatures intently. Just then, the largest of the herd slowly raised its head, its majestic horns catching the sunlight. Its deep, gentle eyes swept over Chong Yue and Eika, filled with curiosity but showing no signs of hostility. Chong Yue held his breath, careful not to make a sound that might startle the massive creatures. Eika narrowed her eyes slightly, her gaze cautious and contemplative. The giant beast observed them for a few seconds before slowly lowering its head, resuming its leisurely grazing. Its companions continued to graze peacefully as well, completely unbothered by the presence of the two strangers. ¡°They¡­ don¡¯t seem hostile?¡± Chong Yue whispered, curiosity evident in his eyes, ¡°To be safe, we should go around them.¡± Eika nodded, following his lead. Chong Yue couldn¡¯t help but glance back at the massive, gentle creatures as they peacefully grazed, his mind swirling with curiosity and confusion. He murmured under his breath, ¡°They look nothing like any animal from Earth¡­¡± After carefully skirting around the herd, they returned to the stream and continued following its course toward Titan¡¯s Peak. They walked for what felt like hours, the sun climbing high into the sky, its scorching rays beating down on the expansive plain. Chong Yue and Eika continued along the stream, its flowing water bringing a refreshing coolness to the air. They walked in silence, eyes sharp and vigilant as they scanned their surroundings. Suddenly, the ground began to tremble, a faint vibration rippling through the soil beneath their feet. Chong Yue froze, his brows furrowing as he muttered, ¡°An earthquake?¡± ¡°No¡­ This isn¡¯t an earthquake.¡± Eika¡¯s eyes sharpened, her ears twitching slightly as if listening to a distant sound. Her head snapped around, shock flashing in her violet eyes, ¡°Look!¡± Chong Yue followed her gaze and turned around. In the distance, across the vast plain, a massive cloud of dust surged towards them like an oncoming storm. The herd of sheep-bull creatures that had been peacefully grazing moments ago were now stampeding at full speed straight towards them! Their eyes were wide with terror and panic, their massive curved horns glinting ominously under the sunlight. Their dense, woolly fur billowed wildly as they ran. Each one moved like an uncontrollable beast, their enormous bodies tearing up the earth beneath them, leaving deep gouges in the ground. The earth shook violently, the thunderous sound of their stampede rolling across the plain with a crushing, destructive force. ¡°What the hell? Why are they suddenly stampeding?!¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes widened in shock, his face pale with fear, ¡°Did something scare them?¡± Eika¡¯s expression darkened, her eyes cold and piercing. Her instincts screamed that something was chasing those creatures. ¡°Look behind them!¡± Eika raised her arm abruptly, pointing behind the charging herd, her voice cold and tense. Chong Yue followed her gaze, and his blood ran cold. Behind the stampeding herd, shrouded in a cloud of dust, a pack of pitch-black monsters was chasing them relentlessly. Their forms flickered in and out of view under the sunlight, their movements swift and predatory. They were built like wolves but larger than tigers, their limbs long and muscular, built for speed and power. Their jet-black fur gleamed with a metallic sheen, their grotesque faces lined with rows of razor-sharp fangs. Their blood-red eyes burned with icy malice and killing intent. They ran with terrifying speed, their shadows flashing across the plains like streaks of black lightning. One of the beasts lunged at a lagging sheep-bull creature with horrifying speed. ¡°ROAR¡ª!¡± With a guttural, raspy growl, the black monster opened its massive, fang-filled jaws and sank its teeth into the creature¡¯s neck. Blood sprayed into the air as the sheep-bull creature let out a heart-wrenching scream before its massive body was torn apart, collapsing heavily to the ground in a cloud of dust. ¡°What¡­ the hell¡­ are those things?!¡± Chong Yue¡¯s body went cold, his eyes wide with horror and disbelief. ¡°They look like wolves¡­ or dogs¡­ but they¡¯re the size of tigers¡­ They look like monsters straight out of hell!¡± ¡°No way¡­ Are those¡­ Hellhounds?¡± His pupils contracted as cold sweat drenched his back, his heart pounding wildly with fear and anxiety. ¡°We¡¯re screwed¡­ Those monsters are chasing the herd¡­ and the herd is charging right at us!¡± The realization of the impending crisis struck him like a bolt of lightning. ¡°Run!¡± Chong Yue shouted. ¡°To the valley ahead!¡± Without hesitation, Eika followed Chong Yue¡¯s lead, the two of them sprinting towards the forested valley. They ran with every ounce of strength they had, branches and leaves crunching beneath their feet as they charged into the woods. ¡°ROAR¡ª!¡± A wave of icy killing intent washed over them as one of the Hellhounds spotted them. With a feral snarl, it leaped out from the pack, barreling straight towards them. ¡°Damn it!¡± Chong Yue realized they had been targeted. They dashed into the dense woods within the valley, branches and leaves crackling underfoot. Above them, the canopy interlocked, blocking out the sunlight and plunging the forest into a dim, oppressive gloom. But the Hellhound didn¡¯t give up the chase. It let out a low, menacing growl as it entered the forest, its blood-red eyes glowing ominously in the darkness. Its limbs were powerful and agile, claws tearing into the earth as it bounded forward, kicking up dust and leaves. Its speed was terrifyingly relentless. Chong Yue gritted his teeth, his breaths ragged, sweat pouring down his face and soaking his back. He glanced over his shoulder, ¡°Damn! It¡¯s catching up!¡± His mind raced, ¡°There¡¯s no choice¡­ We have to fight it!¡± Chong Yue forced himself to stay calm, turning around and raising his makeshift spear. ¡°Eika, get up in that tree. I¡¯ll distract it. When you see an opening, hit it hard!¡± Eika¡¯s eyes flashed with understanding. Without a word, she nodded and swiftly climbed up the nearest tree, moving with the agility of a cat. Chong Yue tightened his grip on the wooden spear, his eyes locked on the Hellhound as it charged toward him, its jaws wide open, revealing rows of razor-sharp fangs. He took a deep breath, his heart pounding. ¡°Alright¡­ Let¡¯s do this.¡± The Hellhound¡¯s blood-red eyes locked onto Chong Yue, a low, guttural growl rumbling from its throat. Its massive jaws opened wide, revealing rows of razor-sharp fangs, saliva dripping thickly from its mouth. Its eyes blazed with ferocity and murderous intent. ¡°ROAR¡ª!¡± With an ear-splitting roar, the Hellhound lunged forward. It moved like lightning, its huge body cutting through the air, claws extended and aimed straight at Chong Yue¡¯s throat. ¡°So fast!¡± Chong Yue¡¯s pupils contracted, his heart pounding wildly, but he didn¡¯t retreat. Instead, he swiftly sidestepped, narrowly dodging the deadly claws. The Hellhound missed its target, its huge body twisting mid-air, its claws slashing through the wind with a sharp whistle. Chong Yue seized the opening and thrust his wooden spear forward, aiming for the Hellhound¡¯s neck. ¡°Die!¡± ¡°Thud¡ª!¡± The spear pierced the Hellhound¡¯s neck, black blood spurting from the wound. ¡°ROAR¡ª!¡± The Hellhound howled in pain, fury igniting in its crimson eyes. It thrashed violently, its enormous strength snapping the wooden spear like a twig. With a fierce swing of its massive body, it slammed into Chong Yue. ¡°Ugh¡ª!¡± The impact sent Chong Yue flying backward, his body crashing hard against a tree trunk. Pain exploded in his chest, stealing his breath away. His vision blurred, darkness threatening to overtake him, but he gritted his teeth, clinging desperately to consciousness. From her perch in the tree, Eika¡¯s eyes turned cold as ice. She saw her chance and leaped from the branch, her movements swift and precise. In her hands was a sharpened wooden spear, aimed directly at the Hellhound¡¯s exposed back. ¡°Thud¡ª!¡± The spear drove deep into the back of the Hellhound¡¯s neck, black blood spurting from the wound. Eika wrapped her legs tightly around the Hellhound¡¯s back, riding it like a raging bull. With all her strength, she drove the spear downward, trying to sever its spine. ¡°ROAR¡ª!¡± The Hellhound howled in agony, its massive body thrashing wildly in pain. It shook its head violently, ramming into tree trunks in a frenzy, desperately trying to shake Eika off its back. Weakened by her previous injuries, Eika couldn¡¯t hold on for long and was thrown through the air. She crashed hard onto the ground. Before she could get up, the Hellhound lunged at her, its fangs aimed straight for her throat. ¡°So¡­ this is the end?¡± A flash of despair crossed Eika¡¯s eyes, unwillingness and defiance shining in her gaze. Just then, Chong Yue snapped out of his pain-induced daze, adrenaline surging through his body. With a roar, he charged at the beast. Gripping the last of his makeshift spears, he gritted his teeth and plunged it into the Hellhound¡¯s left eye. ¡°Squelch¡ª!¡± The spear burst through the Hellhound¡¯s eyeball, shattering it as blood gushed out. The Hellhound roared in pain, thrashing violently as its body convulsed in agony. Freed from the crushing weight of its paw, Eika rolled away and sprang to her feet. Without hesitation, she drew her dagger and drove it into the Hellhound¡¯s right eye. ¡°Squelch¡ª!¡± The sharp blade punctured the eye, a spray of blood splattering across her face. The Hellhound let out a bone-chilling howl, its massive body convulsing as it thrashed about in blind agony. Its limbs twitched a few more times before it collapsed heavily to the ground, finally falling still. Their clothes were soaked in blood, a mix of the beast¡¯s and their own. They were battered, exhausted, but alive. Chong Yue slowly stood up, wiping the blood from his face. ¡°We made a pretty good team.¡± He forced a grin, stubborn determination gleaming in his eyes. ¡°This isn¡¯t a safe place to rest.¡± Eika¡¯s eyes were cold, and she struggled to her feet, her body swaying slightly. ¡°Its pack might track us by scent. We have to leave immediately.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Without another word, they turned and vanished into the shadows of the forest. They moved cautiously through the depths of the valley, the trees thinning out as the air grew colder and damper. The golden hues of sunset painted the treetops as dusk settled in. Distant cries of wild beasts echoed through the woods, giving the place an eerie atmosphere. Chong Yue clutched his side, his steps faltering, his face pale and drawn. During the brutal fight with the Hellhound, he had slammed into a tree trunk. It wasn¡¯t a fatal injury, but the pain was excruciating. ¡°Ouch¡­ Damn, that hurts!¡± He grimaced, his face twisted in pain. ¡°Stupid mutt¡­ That headbutt was no joke.¡± Panting heavily, he looked up at the sky. The sun was sinking behind the mountain ridge, and darkness was fast approaching. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. We should set up camp here.¡± But Eika didn¡¯t respond. Chong Yue paused, a sense of unease washing over him. He turned around. Eika¡¯s face was pale, her lips dry and cracked, cold sweat beading on her forehead. Her steps were shaky, and before he could react, her knees buckled, and she collapsed heavily to the ground. ¡°Hey! Eika!¡± Chong Yue¡¯s expression changed dramatically as he rushed over, dropping to his knees beside her, his hands gripping her shoulders. ¡°Hey! What¡¯s wrong? Wake up!¡± Eika¡¯s eyes were shut tight, her breathing rapid and shallow, pain contorting her face. A chill ran down Chong Yue¡¯s spine. He pressed his hand to her forehead. ¡°So hot¡­ She¡¯s burning up!¡± His face paled as panic set in. Hastily, he tore open the fabric around her right thigh, peeling away the blood-soaked bandages. Underneath, the wound was swollen and inflamed, yellow pus seeping from the gash. The skin around it was an angry mix of red and purple, emitting a faint, sickly-sweet stench of rot. His heart sank. ¡°Damn it¡­ The wound is infected!¡± ¡°Damn it! The wound¡¯s infected!¡± Chong Yue gritted his teeth, his eyes filled with worry and panic. ¡°At this rate, the infection will spread¡­ It could be fatal!¡± His hands trembled slightly as he struggled to keep calm. ¡°What do I do now? We don¡¯t have any medicine!¡± His eyes darted around, desperately searching for anything useful, but they were surrounded by nothing but trees and dirt. No medicine, no disinfectant, not even basic bandages¡ªthey had used up everything. ¡°Damn it¡­ Am I really going to watch her die right in front of me?¡± His face darkened, helplessness sinking into his heart. Just then, Eika¡¯s eyes fluttered open, her gaze unfocused and weak. She lifted her head slightly, her voice barely above a whisper, ¡°Cut¡­ cut off my leg¡­¡± ¡°What did you just say?!¡± Chong Yue heard her words clearly, but they shocked him to his core. His mind went blank, his body frozen in place. He couldn¡¯t believe it¡ªthis calm, decisive girl was telling him to amputate her leg so coldly. He forced himself to think rationally. Without medicine, the only way to save her life was to amputate the infected limb. Swallowing his fear, Chong Yue began to prepare. He started a fire, heating Eika¡¯s dagger over the flames to sterilize it. Using his own shirt, he tied a tourniquet tightly around Eika¡¯s upper thigh to stem the blood flow. To prevent her from biting her tongue from the pain, he placed a thick stick between her teeth. Chong Yue¡¯s face was pale but resolute as he whispered, ¡°I¡¯m going to start now¡­¡± Eika was too weak to respond, her eyes half-closed, her breathing shallow. Chong Yue forced himself to stay calm, his brows knitted tightly as he positioned the heated blade. His hands were steady, but his heart was pounding violently. Just as the blade was about to touch her skin, a rustling noise came from the nearby bushes. Chapter 4: Respite Chong Yue¡¯s hands trembled as he gripped the dagger, its blade glinting coldly under the dim light. His eyes were hollow, staring blankly at Eika¡¯s swollen, festering wound. A deep, wrenching pain tore through his heart. ¡°Is this¡­ really the only way? Do I really have to cut off her leg?¡± His voice was hoarse and weak, his eyes bloodshot and his forehead drenched in cold sweat. He clenched his teeth, slowly raising the dagger, its blade aimed at the root of Eika¡¯s thigh, ready to make the cut. Just as the blade was about to touch her skin¡ª ¡°Rustle¡ª¡± A faint noise broke the silence of the night, coming from the bushes behind him. Chong Yue¡¯s body jolted, the dagger freezing mid-air as his gaze snapped toward the source of the sound. ¡°Who¡¯s there?!¡± In the shadows of the forest, beneath the flickering, dim light, the trees swayed, and something seemed to be watching them from the darkness. Chong Yue¡¯s pupils contracted, his eyes sharp and tense. ¡°Could it be¡­ a Hellhound tracking us?!¡± He tightened his grip on the dagger, his legs bending into a defensive stance. His muscles were taut, ready to spring into action at any moment. ¡°Eika can¡¯t move¡­ If it¡¯s another monster, I can¡¯t beat it alone.¡± Cold sweat trickled down his forehead, his eyes filled with caution and anxiety. Suddenly, quick, light footsteps echoed from the bushes. In the dim light, a shadowy figure flashed past and disappeared swiftly into the depths of the forest. ¡°A¡­ human?¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes widened in shock and confusion. ¡°There¡¯s¡­ someone else out here?¡± The darkness made it impossible to see the figure¡¯s face clearly, but it was undoubtedly human-shaped. As the shadow vanished into the forest, silence fell once more, broken only by the crackling of the campfire. Chong Yue¡¯s heart raced, his grip on the dagger unwavering. ¡°Who¡­ or what¡­ was that?¡± Chong Yue stared cautiously at the forest, confusion swirling in his eyes. ¡°What¡­ was that?¡± He whispered to himself, slowly approaching the bushes, his right hand gripping the dagger tightly, ready to strike at any moment. Using the blade, he parted the foliage, revealing a small pouch hidden behind the undergrowth. ¡°A¡­ medicine pouch?¡± His eyes widened in shock as he crouched down, his fingers trembling slightly as he picked it up. Opening the pouch, he found several fresh herbs and a small jar of honey. ¡°Plantain leaves, echinacea¡­ and honey¡­¡± His eyes widened further, filled with astonishment and excitement. ¡°If I remember correctly, these are all natural antibiotics!¡± He glanced back at the direction the shadow had fled, a mix of gratitude and bewilderment in his gaze. ¡°Who¡­ left these here?¡± There was no time to ponder. Chong Yue quickly returned to the campsite and knelt beside Eika, his eyes burning with determination. Taking a deep breath, he gathered two stones and placed them near the campfire to warm them up. He then ground the herbs into a fine powder using the heated stones and mixed them with honey to form a soothing herbal paste. The air filled with the gentle, fresh scent of herbs as the pale green paste gave off a faint, healing fragrance. With utmost care, he used clean leaves to gently apply the herbal mixture to Eika¡¯s wound. As the paste touched the inflamed skin, Eika¡¯s eyebrows twitched, and a faint groan escaped her lips. ¡°Sorry¡­ I know it hurts, but you have to hold on.¡± Chong Yue¡¯s voice was soft and comforting, his movements tender and precise. His eyes were filled with worry and hope as he worked meticulously to save her life. After applying the herbal paste, Chong Yue tore a strip from his own shirt, carefully wrapping it around Eika¡¯s wound to prevent the infection from spreading further. Throughout the process, his hands trembled slightly, but his movements were firm and swift. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ done for now¡­¡± He let out a long, exhausted sigh, his body sagging as he collapsed onto the ground. A sharp pain flared in his abdomen, and he clutched his side, his face pale as cold sweat beaded on his forehead. Turning his head, he looked at Eika, his eyes reflecting a mixture of relief, concern, and complex emotions. Eika¡¯s face was still pale, but her breathing had steadied, and the pain etched on her brow had softened. Watching her peaceful, sleeping face, Chong Yue¡¯s thoughts drifted to his sister, Chong Yunruo. He pictured her bright, cheerful smile, her playful, mischievous grin, and the innocent laughter they shared during that camping trip. ¡°Yunruo¡­¡± He murmured, pain and longing clouding his gaze. ¡°Are you¡­ okay¡­ wherever you are?¡± His voice trembled as his heart ached with worry. ¡°Wenyuan, my brother¡­ If you¡¯re with Yunruo¡­ please¡­ take care of her¡­ for me.¡± The campfire flickered, its warm light casting shadows across his weary, pale face. As his tightly wound nerves began to relax, the exhaustion finally overtook him, his eyelids growing heavy. A cold night breeze swept through the clearing, carrying a chilling bite. Chong Yue leaned back against the ancient tree, his body finally surrendering to fatigue as he drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep. He didn¡¯t know how long he had slept, but the warm sunlight filtered through the dense leaves, gently falling on Chong Yue¡¯s face. The brightness and slight burning sensation of the sun coaxed him from his deep sleep. His eyes fluttered open, his vision hazy and blurred, his mind still foggy from exhaustion. But the moment he woke, a sharp, searing pain shot through his right side, jolting him fully awake. ¡°Ah¡ªdamn, that hurts!¡± He sucked in a sharp breath, his face contorting in pain as he clutched his abdomen, his brows knitted tightly together. Lifting his shirt gingerly, he looked down and saw a large, dark bruise spreading across his right side, swollen and tender to the touch. ¡°Looks like getting body-slammed by that Hellhound did more damage than I thought.¡± He let out a bitter chuckle, a helpless smile tugging at his lips. ¡°Ugh¡­ Looks like I¡¯ll be out of commission for a few days¡­¡± Slowly, he sat up, his gaze instinctively drifting toward Eika. She lay motionless on the ground, her eyes closed and her breathing steady. Her face was no longer deathly pale; in fact, a faint flush of color had returned to her cheeks. Chong Yue leaned in closer, his eyes filled with concern. He gently reached out, pressing the back of his hand against her forehead. Her skin was still warm, but the fever was nowhere near as intense as it had been the night before. ¡°Looks like the herbs are working¡­¡± A sigh of relief escaped his lips, his face softening with a grateful smile. Reassured that Eika was safe for the moment, Chong Yue grabbed the blood-stained bandages and the dagger, slowly rising to his feet. Pain flared up in his abdomen, forcing him to clench his teeth as his face twisted in discomfort. But he endured the pain, one careful step at a time, making his way toward the small stream beside the campsite. His body screamed in protest, but his determination burned brightly in his eyes. ¡°I can¡¯t afford to collapse¡­ Not yet¡­¡± The gentle murmur of the stream grew louder as he approached, the cool air refreshing against his heated skin. Kneeling by the water, Chong Yue began washing the dagger and bandages, his movements slow but precise. The icy water soothed his aching muscles as he worked, his mind filled with thoughts of survival and the mysterious shadow that had saved them. The stream was crystal clear, the water weeds swaying gracefully with the current. A few small fish darted around, their scales glinting under the sunlight, plump and fresh-looking. Chong Yue¡¯s mouth watered instinctively. ¡°Fish! There are fish here!¡± His eyes lit up with excitement and longing. ¡°If there are fish, we can have meat! No more surviving on mushrooms and berries!¡± His stomach growled loudly as he imagined the smell of roasted fish, his hunger clawing at him. But he quickly calmed himself, his eyes regaining their steady focus. ¡°No¡­ There¡¯s something more important to do first.¡± Taking a deep breath, he forced down his hunger and continued cleaning the bandages. ¡°I need to take care of Eika before I even think about food.¡± Once the bandages were clean, Chong Yue gathered several large leaves, shaping them into makeshift cups. He filled them with the cool, refreshing stream water, balancing them carefully to avoid spilling. Moving slowly, he carried the leaf cups back to the campsite, his steps cautious but determined. He knelt beside Eika, gently lifting her head as he brought the leaf cup to her lips. ¡°Here¡­ Drink some water.¡± His voice was soft and kind, his gaze filled with genuine concern. Eika¡¯s lips parted instinctively, the cool water flowing into her mouth, soothing her dry, cracked lips and parched throat. Her throat moved faintly as she swallowed, her tense expression easing just a bit. After patiently giving her water, Chong Yue began tending to her wound once more. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. He carefully unwrapped the old bandages, his movements delicate and precise. Using the herbs and honey, he prepared another batch of the healing paste, the fresh, herbal scent wafting through the air. He gently spread the mixture over her swollen, inflamed wound, his fingers light and tender. As the herbal paste touched the wound, Eika¡¯s brows furrowed slightly, a faint wince crossing her face, but she remained unconscious. Chong Yue¡¯s movements were delicate and careful, his face full of concern and tenderness. ¡°You¡¯ve got to pull through¡­ You¡¯re the only ally I¡¯ve got.¡± Once he was sure the wound was securely wrapped, he let out a long sigh of relief. ¡°That should do it for now¡­ Hopefully, it won¡¯t get any worse.¡± After tending to Eika¡¯s injury, Chong Yue stood up, his gaze drifting back to the gently flowing stream. He picked up his dagger and sharpened another wooden spear, his eyes burning with hunger and determination. ¡°This time¡­ I¡¯m definitely catching some fish!¡± His jaw clenched with resolve as he made his way back to the stream. At first, his attempts were clumsy. He lunged at the fish with his makeshift spear, but each time, he missed by a wide margin, not even grazing a single scale. ¡°Damn it! You slippery little things!¡± He stomped his foot in frustration, but he didn¡¯t give up. Taking a deep breath, he calmed himself and remembered how light refracts in water, realizing he needed to adjust his aim. After countless failures, he gradually refined his technique. He learned to hold his breath, staying perfectly still as he waited for the right moment. Then, just as a fish swam within range, he struck. ¡°Swoosh¡ª!¡± The wooden spear pierced the water, skewering a plump fish that wriggled frantically on the stick. ¡°I did it!¡± Chong Yue shouted in excitement, his face lighting up with joy. Motivated by his success, he kept going and eventually caught two more plump fish. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was enough to feed the two of them for the night. ¡°Finally¡­ We¡¯re having meat tonight!¡± His laughter echoed through the valley, his eyes gleaming with pride and satisfaction. The evening descended quickly, the shadows of nightfall creeping over the valley. A cool breeze blew through the air, carrying a hint of chill. Chong Yue cleaned the fish by the stream, proudly carrying his catch back to the campsite. He built up the campfire again, his hands moving skillfully as he prepared the fish for roasting. Just as he skewered the fish and positioned it over the flames, a faint voice reached his ears. It was soft, weak, almost like a whisper carried by the wind. "Chong Yue..." His movements froze, his gaze instantly shifting towards the source of the voice. On the other side of the campfire, Eika was weakly opening her eyes, her violet pupils flickering with a faint light. ¡°You¡¯re awake!¡± Chong Yue quickly set down the wooden stick and rushed over, his face full of joy and concern. ¡°How do you feel? Does your wound still hurt?¡± His voice was filled with urgency, every word laced with worry and warmth. Eika didn¡¯t answer, merely nodding lightly, a barely noticeable smile forming at the corner of her lips. Seeing this, Chong Yue¡¯s smile grew even brighter, as if a heavy weight had finally lifted from his heart. ¡°You must be hungry. Hang on, I¡¯m roasting fish. It¡¯ll be ready soon!¡± The campfire crackled, its light dancing in the darkness, casting a warm, orange glow over their faces. Chong Yue skillfully turned the fish over the fire, ensuring it was evenly heated. He carefully adjusted the flames, determined not to burn it. Even without any seasoning, the fish released a tantalizing aroma as it roasted, the savory scent wafting through the air. ¡°Just a little longer, it¡¯s almost ready.¡± He continued to roast the fish, glancing at Eika every now and then, his eyes filled with anticipation. The fish¡¯s skin turned golden and crispy, tiny bubbles forming as the fish oil dripped into the flames, producing a satisfying sizzle. Chong Yue carefully took the fish off the fire, using his dagger to meticulously remove the bones, ensuring each bite was tender and safe to eat. ¡°Here, eat slowly.¡± He gently helped Eika sit up, wrapping the fish in a leaf and feeding her small bites. Eika opened her mouth, taking a tiny bite, her movements slow and cautious. Her eyes were still somewhat dazed, but as the flavor of the fish melted on her tongue, a hint of life returned to her gaze. ¡°Is it good?¡± Chong Yue asked with a smile, his face full of anticipation. Eika nodded slowly, her voice weak but clear, ¡°Yeah¡­ It¡¯s delicious.¡± Chong Yue¡¯s smile grew even brighter. After carefully feeding Eika and making sure she was full, he finally started devouring his own fish. He took a big bite, the tender meat bursting with rich flavor, every mouthful filling him with satisfaction. After dinner, Chong Yue leaned against the campfire, grinding the last of the herbs with two stones. The firelight flickered, casting shadows that danced around them, while the forest echoed with the soft chirping of insects and the gentle whisper of the wind. The scene was serene and peaceful. But despite the calm atmosphere, Chong Yue¡¯s heart was far from at ease. Whenever his mind quieted, his sister Chong Yunruo¡¯s face would appear in his thoughts. Her lively, innocent smile, her playful laughter, and the way she¡¯d say, ¡°Big Brother, let¡¯s go home together!¡± ¡°Yunruo¡­¡± He murmured softly, his eyes growing distant. His grip tightened around the herbs, his fingers turning white, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. ¡°Chong Yue¡­ thank you.¡± The weak voice shattered the stillness of the night, snapping Chong Yue back to reality. He turned to see Eika lying on the ground, her face still pale, but her eyes warmer and more alive. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Saving a beautiful girl¡­ how could I refuse?¡± Chong Yue scratched his head with a sheepish grin, his voice playful with a hint of humor. The air grew silent once more, the crackling of the fire the only sound as embers occasionally popped and danced in the night. To break the awkwardness, Chong Yue cleared his throat and resumed grinding the herbs, his voice soft and cautious, ¡°So¡­ who did this to you? Who hurt you so badly?¡± He expected Eika to remain silent as she had before, but to his surprise, she spoke softly, her voice hoarse: ¡°My father.¡± ¡°Huh?! Why?¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes widened, his face full of shock and confusion. Eika lowered her head, her violet eyes flickering with complex emotions. She was silent for a long time before she began to speak, her voice cold and distant. Eika¡¯s father was a powerful tycoon in Japan, controlling vast wealth and influence. Her mother, however, was merely a maid in his household. At first, her father was drawn to her mother¡¯s breathtaking beauty and gentle personality. He began to approach her frequently, showering her with attention and affection. Initially, her mother was cautious and guarded, but she eventually succumbed to his sweet words and the illusion of tenderness. Their relationship grew closer over time, and her mother became pregnant with Eika. However, when her father learned of the pregnancy, his affection and warmth turned to cold indifference. He was already married, with an esteemed family name and social standing, and he could not allow a ¡°bastard child¡± to tarnish his reputation. He denied responsibility, demanding that her mother get an abortion, using threats and bribes to pressure her into submission. But her mother refused to give in, determined to protect the unborn child within her, risking everything to shield the life growing inside her. Desperate to eliminate the illegitimate child, her father¡¯s actions grew increasingly cruel. Fearing for her life, her mother fled in the dead of night. With nowhere to go, she traveled alone from Tokyo to her hometown in Kyoto, living in hiding and bearing the burden of shame and pain in silence. Finally, during the cherry blossom season, she gave birth to a baby girl all by herself. She named her daughter Tsukimi Eika, using her own family name ¡°Tsukimi,¡± wishing for her to be as beautiful and resilient as the cherry blossoms. Though life was harsh and poverty-stricken, her mother did everything she could to raise Eika with love and care. Eika grew up understanding the sacrifices her mother had made. From a young age, she worked hard in school, excelling in her studies and pushing herself to be the best. She also taught herself martial arts, vowing to protect her mother from harm. However, happiness was fleeting and fragile. The year Eika graduated from high school, her existence was discovered by her father¡¯s spies. Terrified that his illegitimate daughter would ruin his public image and status, her father ordered his men to find her. At first, Eika was unaware of the looming danger. Then one day, she came home to find the door wide open. Her mother lay in a pool of blood, her body battered and bruised. Eika¡¯s heart shattered. She rushed to her mother¡¯s side, her hands trembling as she cradled her mother¡¯s broken body, screaming her name in anguish. Her mother¡¯s eyes fluttered open, filled with love and tenderness. She gently caressed Eika¡¯s face, her voice faint and warm. ¡°I''m sorry¡­ Eika¡­ Mom¡­ couldn¡¯t protect you¡­¡± Her voice was weak and hoarse, her eyes filled with pain and guilt. ¡°No matter what happens¡­ you must live¡­ live on¡­¡± Tears streamed down Eika¡¯s face as she clutched her mother¡¯s hand tightly, shaking her head desperately. She rushed her mother to the hospital, and after an emergency operation, her mother¡¯s life was barely saved. However, from that day on, Eika¡¯s world shattered completely. While her mother was hospitalized, Eika threw herself into relentless training, honing her combat skills and martial arts. She was consumed by one purpose¡ªrevenge. Finally, she followed the trail of her father¡¯s spies, fighting her way to his mansion. Without mercy, she cut down his bodyguards, drenched in blood as she fought her way through. At last, she stood before her father. She wanted to end his life with her own hands. But in the end, she was outnumbered and overwhelmed. Her father personally struck her down, leaving her battered and broken. Barely escaping with her life, she fled into the mountains, pursued relentlessly by her father¡¯s men. While fleeing, she stumbled upon an abandoned shrine. Hoping to rest and heal her wounds, she was instead drawn to a glowing pillar within the shrine. The moment she touched it, a mysterious energy enveloped her body. In the blink of an eye, she was transported to this strange world. She awoke lost and in pain, overwhelmed by helplessness and loneliness. Until she met Chong Yue. When Eika finished recounting her tragic past, a heavy silence fell over the campsite. The campfire flickered softly, its warm light dancing on her pale, weary face. Her violet eyes were filled with pain and helplessness. Chong Yue watched her quietly, his heart swirling with anger and sympathy. His fists clenched tightly, fury flickering in his gaze. ¡°How could a father¡­ be so cruel to his own daughter¡­¡± His teeth ground together, his eyes blazing with indignation and resentment. ¡°That kind of scum doesn¡¯t deserve to be called a father!¡± His thoughts drifted to his own late parents, and a sharp pang of sorrow and bitterness filled his heart. ¡°If my parents were still alive¡­ they would have protected Yunruo¡­ They¡¯d never let her get hurt.¡± He let out a long, heavy sigh, his eyes drifting up to the star-filled night sky. His gaze grew dim, shadows of the past clouding his expression. Taking a deep breath, his voice grew low and hoarse, tinged with nostalgia and sorrow. ¡°You shared your past¡­ I suppose it¡¯s only fair I share mine.¡± His voice wavered slightly, his eyes softening with pain and tenderness. Chong Yue and his sister, Chong Yunruo, were born into a modest family in Guangdong, China. Their parents were loving and harmonious, and the siblings were bright and well-behaved. Though they didn¡¯t have much wealth, their home was filled with warmth and happiness. From an early age, Chong Yue was smart and diligent, consistently excelling in his studies. Meanwhile, his sister Yunruo was lively and cheerful, always clinging to her brother with an innocent, radiant smile. They grew up carefree, their days filled with laughter and love. Everything seemed so perfect, so blissfully warm. Until the day Chong Yue was accepted into Tsinghua University. Their family moved to Beijing, and life began to steadily improve. They were filled with hopes and dreams for the future. His father often boasted proudly, ¡°My son got into Tsinghua! He¡¯s going to do great things one day!¡± His mother would smile gently, preparing meals for them, her eyes warm as she watched the siblings playfully bicker and laugh. Those were Chong Yue¡¯s happiest days, and also the memories he dreaded revisiting the most. But that warmth and happiness did not last long. One rainy night, his father was in a car accident. Despite the doctors¡¯ best efforts, they couldn¡¯t save him. He was gone, just like that. It was as if a bolt of lightning had shattered their world. Their once-happy family crumbled to pieces. His mother couldn¡¯t cope with the loss and spent her days drowning in sorrow. Her health gradually declined, and she eventually passed away from illness. Chong Yue and his sister Yunruo were left behind, orphaned and alone. At that time, Chong Yue was still in college, while Yunruo was in high school. They were left with no one to depend on but each other. Chong Yue struggled to balance his studies while working two jobs to make ends meet. Every day, he rushed between classes and work, exhausted but never once yielding to fate. Yunruo was mature and considerate, taking care of the house by herself, never once complaining about their hardships. Every night when Chong Yue came home, she would be there, smiling as she served him dinner. Her gentle smile became his source of strength and warmth. Determined to build a better future for them, Chong Yue gave his all to finish his education. He finally graduated and planned to take Yunruo camping to celebrate. But before they could even start their new life, a mysterious force pulled them into this strange world. As Chong Yue finished his story, his eyes glistened with pain and longing. He looked up at the bright moon in the night sky, as if trying to see his sister¡¯s face in its light. Eika listened quietly, her eyes reflecting understanding and empathy. She closed her eyes slowly, as if she could feel the sorrow and struggle weighing on Chong Yue¡¯s heart. They sat side by side by the campfire, saying nothing, yet a bond had already formed deep within their hearts. Though they came from different countries, they both had lost the most important people in their lives, both cruelly played by fate. In this strange and perilous world, they were lonely and lost, but their shared sorrows and struggles brought them closer. Above them, the night sky was dotted with countless stars, the bright moon hanging high, casting a cold, silvery glow. The night wind whispered softly, carrying a trace of chill, but the warmth of the campfire drove away the darkness and loneliness. Chong Yue looked at Eika, his eyes filled with determination and gentleness. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. You should rest and heal properly.¡± His voice was firm but caring. ¡°When you¡¯re better, we¡¯ll keep moving forward. We¡¯ll find a way back.¡± He took a deep breath, his gaze burning with unyielding resolve. ¡°No matter what, we have to make it back¡­ to the people we care about most.¡± Eika nodded slightly, a gentle warmth flickering in her violet eyes. She slowly closed her eyes, a faint smile gracing her lips, as if the ice surrounding her heart had begun to melt. The tranquil night was filled only with the soft crackling of the campfire, sparks dancing and flickering against the dark sky. In this cold and desolate world, two lonely hearts were tightly bound by pain and shared understanding. They leaned on each other, supporting one another. Amid the tangled threads of destiny, they gradually forged an unbreakable bond. Chapter 5: Journey And so, they quietly rested and recovered deep within the valley for several days. Warm sunlight spilled over the ground, the stream gurgled softly, and the campfire crackled at night. In this tranquil valley, they found a rare moment of peace, and their bodies gradually healed. Eika¡¯s pale face regained its color, the swelling on her injured thigh subsided, and her fever completely vanished. She was able to stand on her own again. Although her movements were still slow, her steps were growing steadier each day. During these peaceful and warm days, they took care of each other, facing challenges and difficulties together. Their bodies slowly recovered, and their spirits became stronger than before. During these days of rest, Chong Yue recounted the events of that night to Eika. He described in detail how, in his despair, he had accidentally found the pouch of herbs. He remembered the shadowy figure¡ªvague and indistinct¡ªbut undeniably human in shape. After listening to his story, a complex emotion flickered in Eika¡¯s violet eyes, her heart swelling with gratitude. She felt not only thankful to the mysterious stranger but was also deeply moved by Chong Yue¡¯s perseverance. In that life-threatening moment, he chose to stay by her side rather than abandon her. During the days of recovery, Chong Yue took care of her with unwavering dedication, never once showing a hint of complaint. ¡°Thank you, Chong Yue¡­ Without you, I would¡¯ve been dead by now.¡± Eika silently expressed her gratitude, her heart warming with newfound trust and respect. As her body gradually recovered, Eika slowly opened her heart. The coldness and guardedness she once carried began to melt away. She started relying on Chong Yue, no longer maintaining a deliberate distance. Her gaze softened, reflecting trust and affection she had never shown before. She was no longer silent and reserved but began to engage in conversations, sharing her views on the world and her plans for the future. Every now and then, she would smile¡ªa faint smile, but filled with warmth and sincerity. Chong Yue, in turn, became less restrained. He began sharing stories about Yunruo and his dreams for the future. They poured their hearts out to each other, finding understanding and trust. In this strange and dangerous world, they gradually built a deep bond. During the last few days of rest, Chong Yue and Eika fully regained their health. Their wounds healed, and their strength returned. But they both knew that this peace and warmth were only temporary. The journey ahead would be even more perilous and long. To face the challenges awaiting them, they began preparing the survival supplies they would need for the road ahead. Chong Yue took charge of gathering food and securing water supplies. Every morning, he would go to the stream, using a sharpened wooden spear to catch fish. Though the catch was often modest, it was enough to satisfy their hunger. Gradually, he mastered the technique, learning to hold his breath and wait patiently before striking swiftly as the fish swam close. The gentle stream became a reliable water source. He fashioned makeshift cups from folded leaves, filling them with the refreshing spring water. To ensure they wouldn¡¯t run out of water during their journey, he crafted simple water bags by wrapping larger leaves tightly and securing them with vines. In addition to fishing, Chong Yue foraged in the forest for edible fruits and berries. He wove small baskets from vines to carry the berries. Though they tasted sour, the fruits were rich in moisture and nutrients, replenishing their energy and stamina. To prevent the food from spoiling, Chong Yue built a simple drying rack and smoked the excess fish into dried jerky. The dried fish was bland but durable and easy to carry, making it an essential food source for their journey. Since most of their clothes had been torn into bandages, they were left with only tattered garments that provided little protection against the cold. With the path ahead growing more treacherous and the temperatures dropping as they neared the mountaintops, warm clothing became a necessity. Eika carefully observed the surrounding environment and noticed that the forest was abundant with sturdy grass leaves. The leaves were not only soft but also remarkably durable. She meticulously gathered the grass leaves and laid them out under the sunlight to dry thoroughly. Once the leaves became flexible and lightweight, Eika used vines to weave them together. Her fingers moved swiftly and skillfully, layering and interweaving the grass leaves one by one. After some time, she crafted simple cloaks from the layered leaves. Though plain and rudimentary, the cloaks were tightly woven and sturdy, providing ample protection against wind and rain. They were also light and easy to carry. Eika handed one cloak to Chong Yue and kept the other for herself, her eyes gleaming with a hint of pride and satisfaction. ¡°They¡¯re not fancy, but they¡¯re definitely practical.¡± She wrapped the cloak around herself, giving her shoulders a small shake. The cloak draped naturally over her back, enveloping her body. ¡°With this, we won¡¯t have to worry about the cold wind anymore.¡± Chong Yue gratefully accepted the cloak. ¡°Thanks, Eika. I never imagined you knew how to weave.¡± Eika¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile, her eyes softening with warmth. ¡°I¡¯m more than just a fighter, you know.¡± After preparing everything, they were finally ready to set off. Chong Yue carried his makeshift water bags and food supplies on his back, gripping a stone-tipped spear in his hand, his gaze sharp and filled with determination. Eika draped herself in the leaf-woven cloak, holding a stone short sword, her expression calm and resolute. They stood side by side, their eyes fixed on the towering Titan''s Peak in the distance. That majestic and mysterious mountain seemed to be calling them, awaiting their arrival to uncover the truth of their destiny. ¡°No matter how difficult the road ahead, we must survive.¡± ¡°To return to our world¡­ to see the people we care about once more.¡± In this strange and foreign world, they were no longer alone, for they had each other¡¯s companionship and trust. They walked together, shoulder to shoulder, resolute in their journey forward, undeterred by any storms or thorns that lay ahead. And so, they set off once again toward the Titan''s Peak. The journey was filled with breathtaking and surreal landscapes. They passed through deep valleys, crossed rushing rivers, and navigated forests and plains of all sizes. Their eyes were wide with curiosity and wonder at the beauty and mystery surrounding them. Along the way, they encountered a myriad of strange creatures and plants. In the forest, they saw massive mushrooms in vibrant colors, reminiscent of a magical world from a fairy tale. These mushrooms emitted a faint glow, illuminating the night like stars scattered across the ground, lighting their path forward. Among the bushes, peculiar little creatures scurried about. They looked like squirrels, but their tails fanned out like a peacock¡¯s, bursting with dazzling colors that shimmered like a dream. These curious and playful creatures often followed them, peeking out from the foliage to watch them with wide, inquisitive eyes. Together, they explored and observed, marveling at each new discovery. They carefully avoided dangerous beasts, gathered edible fruits, and marked landmarks along the way. Their journey was not without hardship. They faced fierce storms and lightning, and at times, hunger and exhaustion. Rain poured down in torrents, and the howling winds soaked them to the bone, the cold seeping deep into their bodies. They huddled together for warmth in caves, their shared body heat barely enough to get them through the freezing nights. There were days when food was scarce, and they survived on dried fish and wild berries, fighting off hunger pangs. When their strength gave out, they leaned on each other for support, offering words of encouragement and comfort, taking each step with great effort. No matter how perilous and long the road was, they never gave up on moving forward. After days of trekking and struggling through harsh terrains, Chong Yue and Eika finally arrived at the foot of the Titan''s Peak. This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Before them lay the last stretch of forest¡ªdense and shadowy, with towering ancient trees. The air was thick with dampness and a chilling coldness. Chong Yue looked up, his eyes tracing the silhouette of the Titan''s Peak. The mountain stood tall, piercing the clouds, its summit shrouded in mist, like a stairway leading to the heavens. As they stepped into the final forest, a distant commotion reached their ears. They immediately went on high alert, their eyes sharp as blades. Their bodies lowered instinctively, ready for battle at any moment. ¡°There¡¯s movement up ahead,¡± Chong Yue whispered, his eyes narrowing with caution. Eika nodded, her fingers lightly brushing the hilt of her stone short sword. Her muscles tensed, her posture resembling that of a hunting leopard, ready to strike. Using the thick underbrush as cover, they moved silently toward the source of the noise. Every step was taken with utmost care, ensuring not a single dry leaf crunched beneath their feet. The gentle breeze rustled the tree leaves, providing a natural camouflage for their stealthy approach. Pushing through the dense bushes, they were stunned by the scene that unfolded before them. In a clearing within the woods, a group of slender, long-eared creatures stood in formation, surrounding a man and a woman. These golden-haired elves were clad in lightweight leather armor, armed with longbows and short swords. Their eyes were filled with vigilance and hostility. The two people at the center of the encirclement looked completely out of place. The young man had light blond hair, a slender build, and was dressed in a checkered shirt and shorts. He carried a large backpack, his face etched with panic and helplessness. The young woman had long black hair, bronze-toned skin, and wore a simple dress. A small satchel hung from her shoulder, and she clutched her hands tightly to her chest, her eyes wide with fear and confusion. Their clothing and demeanor instantly reminded Chong Yue and Eika of themselves. Their unfamiliar attire stood out starkly, a style that clearly didn¡¯t belong to this strange and fantastical world. ¡°They seem to be like us¡­ from Earth.¡± Eika whispered, her eyes reflecting shock and suspicion. Chong Yue carefully observed them, his gaze lingering on their clothing and backpacks. After a moment, he nodded, agreeing with Eika¡¯s assessment. ¡°Their clothes¡­ and the brand logos on their backpacks¡­ they¡¯re definitely from the modern world.¡± ¡°Should we intervene?¡± Eika asked softly, her grip tightening around her stone short sword, her violet eyes gleaming with cold determination. ¡°Not yet,¡± Chong Yue gestured for patience, his expression calm and calculated. ¡°We don¡¯t know how many elves there are. Acting rashly would be too risky.¡± They stayed hidden in the bushes, holding their breath as they carefully listened to the conversation. The tense atmosphere was so thick it felt suffocating. ¡°We¡¯re just travelers! We mean no harm. Please believe us!¡± The blond young man pleaded, his voice trembling with anxiety. His arms shook slightly, the straps of his backpack digging into his shoulders, his face pale with fear. ¡°How do we know you¡¯re not lying?¡± A more distinguished elf stepped forward. He wore a pale green cloak embroidered with intricate patterns along the edges. In his hand, he held an exquisitely crafted elven long knife. His golden hair was tied neatly behind his head, and his eyes gleamed with authority and scrutiny. It was clear that he was their commander. ¡°He¡¯s speaking¡­ English?!¡± Chong Yue and Eika¡¯s eyes widened in shock, their faces etched with disbelief. ¡°The elves here¡­ they speak English?¡± Eika whispered, her fingers unconsciously tightening around her sword¡¯s hilt, her mind racing with questions. ¡°That means¡­ they¡¯ve likely encountered people from Earth before. And there might be more of them than just these two.¡± Chong Yue analyzed quietly, his eyes gleaming with sharp intelligence. The elven leader¡¯s gaze was icy, his voice laced with accusation and distrust: ¡°You not only trespassed into our territory, but the girl beside you also picked sacred herbs without the permission of the gods.¡± ¡°Whether you meant harm or not, I cannot let you leave. Especially since¡­ you are humans.¡± When he uttered the word ¡°humans,¡± his tone was filled with contempt and suspicion, as if the very word carried a dreadful curse. ¡°This matter will be judged by the chieftain of our tribe.¡± He gestured to his subordinates, and several elves immediately moved forward, binding the boy and the black-haired girl with vines and ropes. The boy¡¯s face turned pale, his throat tightening as fear paralyzed his body. The black-haired girl¡¯s hands trembled, her lips moving soundlessly, as if she were praying or whispering something to herself. Chong Yue and Eika watched tensely, their eyes filled with worry and hesitation. ¡°They don¡¯t seem like bad people, but the elves are so hostile¡­ What should we do?¡± ¡°Wait a little longer. It¡¯s not the right moment yet.¡± Chong Yue¡¯s brows furrowed, his eyes calculating and cautious. Eika nodded, her violet eyes reflecting a calm determination. She slowly relaxed her posture but remained on high alert. The wind whispered through the forest, rustling the leaves softly. Hidden behind the bushes, they stayed perfectly still, like leopards waiting for the right moment to pounce. Their eyes remained locked on the scene before them, ready to strike at any moment. Chong Yue¡¯s eyes gleamed sharply as he scanned the surroundings, his mind racing with tactical calculations. ¡°A head-on fight won¡¯t work. They outnumber us. We¡¯ll have to be clever¡ªcreate chaos and distract them.¡± His gaze landed on a massive beehive hanging from a nearby tree. A cunning smirk appeared on his face as his eyes sparkled with a mischievous light. Lowering his voice, he whispered to Eika: ¡°I¡¯ll create a distraction to cause confusion. You sneak in and rescue the prisoners.¡± Eika nodded in agreement, her violet eyes flashing with resolve. Chong Yue swiftly moved behind an ancient tree, picking up several medium-sized rocks. With precise aim, he hurled the stones at a distant tree trunk. ¡°Thud¡ªThud¡ª¡± The stones struck the tree trunk, producing deep, echoing noises that instantly drew the elves¡¯ attention. ¡°What was that?!¡± ¡°An ambush?!¡± The elves immediately readied their bows, eyes alert as they scanned the direction of the noise. The elven leader¡¯s expression darkened as he shouted: ¡°You three, go investigate! Leave no stone unturned!¡± Three elven archers dashed toward the sound, leaving a gap in their formation. The number of guards watching the prisoners was cut in half, weakening their defense. Chong Yue seized the opportunity, taking aim at the beehive and hurling another stone with all his might. ¡°CRASH!¡± The stone struck the beehive dead-on, causing it to tremble violently before plummeting to the ground. ¡°Buzzzzz¡ª¡± A furious swarm of bees erupted from the shattered hive, spreading out in every direction in a frenzied attack. ¡°Ahh¡ªBees!¡± ¡°Get them off!¡± The elves panicked, wildly flailing their weapons to fend off the angry bees. Their formation crumbled into disarray as some fled from the attacking swarm while others instinctively backed away. This retreat created a crucial opening in the defenses around the prisoners. Amidst the chaos, Eika moved like a shadow, her form blending seamlessly with the underbrush. Her movements were swift and silent, flowing smoothly from tree to tree as she closed in on the captives. The black-haired girl was curled up in terror, her eyes wide with fear and despair. The blond boy was trembling uncontrollably, his face pale with shock and confusion. Eika crouched beside them, her stone short sword flashing as she sliced through the vines binding them. Her actions were swift and precise. She leaned in close to the girl, her voice low and soothing: ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯m here to help you. Stay quiet and follow me.¡± The girl¡¯s eyes widened with hope and gratitude as she nodded faintly. The boy was too stunned to speak but managed to nod numbly. Eika scanned the surroundings before leading the two into the dense underbrush, disappearing without a sound. Chong Yue remained hidden behind the ancient tree, keeping a watchful eye on Eika¡¯s progress. When he saw her successfully extract the prisoners, a satisfied smile formed on his lips. To cover their escape, he hurled more stones in the opposite direction, creating a series of loud noises. ¡°Thud¡ªThud¡ª¡± The crashing sounds echoed through the forest, further confusing the elves who immediately dashed toward the wrong direction. The elven leader¡¯s face contorted with fury as he brandished his long knife, his voice echoing through the trees: ¡°Who¡¯s there? Show yourself!¡± His icy gaze cut through the shadows, but he was looking in the wrong place. Chong Yue slipped away silently, moving through the shadows to rendezvous with Eika. He placed a hand on Eika¡¯s shoulder, his eyes filled with admiration and relief. ¡°Well done. Let¡¯s get out of here.¡± Eika nodded, her violet eyes gleaming with calm determination. She led the rescued captives away swiftly while Chong Yue guarded the rear, ensuring their safe retreat. Their teamwork was flawless, and their escape was seamless. After rescuing the pair, the four of them hurriedly retreated, sprinting through the dense forest and undergrowth until they reached a safe clearing. They finally stopped, panting heavily as they leaned against a large tree, catching their breath. The morning sunlight filtered through the leaves, and a gentle breeze brought with it a refreshing coolness. They exchanged glances, their faces filled with relief and gratitude. ¡°Thank you for saving us back there,¡± The young man said between heavy breaths, his face brimming with gratitude. His hands rested on his knees as he struggled to catch his breath, clearly exhausted from the earlier escape. The black-haired girl gave a small bow, her voice soft and shy as she expressed her thanks: ¡°Really... thank you so much.¡± ¡°No need to thank us,¡± Chong Yue replied with a warm smile, his tone friendly and laid-back. He asked curiously, ¡°You were transported here too, weren¡¯t you?¡± ¡°Huh? Does that mean... you were too?¡± Elias¡¯s eyes widened in shock, his face a mixture of disbelief and amazement. Chong Yue and Eika exchanged a knowing glance and nodded, confirming their shared fate. Elias scratched his head with a sheepish grin, his voice tinged with embarrassment: ¡°S-Sorry, um... I¡¯m Elias L¨¹ftner. I¡¯m sort of an inventor, though... I don¡¯t have any famous inventions or anything.¡± He laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his head. ¡°I¡¯m Nahla Al-Riyah. You can just call me Nahla.¡± The black-haired girl¡¯s voice was soft and timid, her head lowered slightly as if shy. ¡°I¡¯m Chong Yue. Just graduated, no stable job yet, haha.¡± Chong Yue laughed heartily, his tone light and casual. ¡°Tsukimi Eika. Just call me Eika.¡± Eika¡¯s voice was cool and clear, her tone crisp and to the point. After the introductions, the tension between them eased, and the atmosphere became noticeably more relaxed. ¡°So, since you were also brought here, I¡¯m guessing theTitan''s Peak is your destination too?¡± Chong Yue asked as they began walking. ¡°Yeah, when I was being transported, I heard a voice telling me to go to Titan''s Peak.¡± Elias nodded and continued, ¡°And then on the way, I ran into Nahla, who was also headed there.¡± He gave a lighthearted smile, his expression open and genuine. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, why don¡¯t we travel together?¡± Chong Yue suggested, then looked over at Eika. ¡°I don¡¯t mind,¡± Eika replied simply, her tone firm and trusting. ¡°That¡¯s great! Thank you so much!¡± Elias¡¯s face lit up with excitement, his gratitude evident. ¡°By the way, Elias, judging from your accent... are you German?¡± Chong Yue asked curiously. ¡°Ah, is my accent that obvious?¡± Elias scratched his head, his expression slightly embarrassed. ¡°No worries, no worries. I¡¯m Chinese; I¡¯m sure I¡¯ve got an accent too.¡± Chong Yue burst out laughing, his voice hearty and carefree, easing the atmosphere even further. The two boys exchanged glances, their guard lowered as they began chatting and getting to know each other. While the boys were engrossed in conversation, the atmosphere on the girls¡¯ side was much quieter. Nahla occasionally stole glances at Eika, her demeanor timid and reserved. Her head was slightly bowed, a faint blush coloring her cheeks, as though she wanted to speak but was too shy to do so. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?¡± Eika noticed her discomfort and asked gently. ¡°N-No... I¡¯m fine...¡± Nahla quickly shook her head, her cheeks flushing even more. Eika¡¯s lips curled into a soft smile, her gaze warm and understanding. Her eyes drifted to Nahla¡¯s pouch, where a small corner of herbal leaves peeked out, and a familiar scent wafted from it. ¡°About the herbs from before... thank you.¡± Eika¡¯s voice was soft, filled with genuine gratitude. Nahla¡¯s eyes widened in surprise before a warm smile broke across her face: ¡°I¡¯m just glad... you¡¯re okay.¡± As they continued on their journey together, the four of them laughed and chatted, the bonds between them growing stronger with each step. Chapter Six: Cooperation As they journeyed together, the four travelers exchanged information and theories. Nahla shared her observations about the local flora. While she had discovered many unfamiliar and seemingly magical plants, she also recognized several species commonly found on Earth¡ªsuch as mint, as well as plantain and echinacea, which she had previously used to help Eika. Elias, on the other hand, had used his watch to measure the length of day and night, confirming that this place followed the same 24-hour cycle as Earth. He and Nahla had both arrived near the coastline and had seen seagulls and other familiar marine birds. Combining these findings with Chong Yue¡¯s earlier observation of the constellations, they reached a startling conclusion¡ªthis was not another world, but rather an unknown region of Earth. But how was that possible? Every landmass on Earth had been mapped by satellites. How could an entire continent remain undiscovered? For a moment, silence fell over the group. The contradiction between their understanding of the world and the reality before them left them without a clear answer. Regardless, Giant¡¯s Peak remained their only clue¡ªall they could do was press on and search for more answers. After a long and arduous journey, the four finally arrived at the base of Giant¡¯s Peak. Towering above them, the mountain pierced the sky, its summit obscured by swirling mist, as if guarding an ancient secret. A cold wind blew through the valley, a forewarning that the ascent would not be easy. ¡°Before we start climbing, let¡¯s check our supplies,¡± Chong Yue suggested. They each examined their belongings: Though their supplies were limited, one major issue stood out¡ªthe cold. The higher they climbed, the colder it would get. Without adequate protection, the freezing mountain winds could become their greatest threat. ¡°We need to find a way to stay warm,¡± Eika noted as she scanned their surroundings. ¡°I saw a strange cotton-like plant on the way here,¡± Nahla recalled. She described a tall, brown-stemmed plant with fluffy cotton bolls. While the outer layers resembled normal cotton, the core contained soft golden fibers. Its thick leaves also secreted a waxy substance when crushed. ¡°If we gather enough of these cotton bolls, we can make scarves, leg wraps, gloves, and even simple thermal linings,¡± she proposed. The group split up to search the forest for the plant. After some effort, they successfully gathered enough cotton bolls and leaves. Elias carved simple spinning tools from tree branches, while Chong Yue and Eika cleaned and separated the white cotton from the golden fibers. Meanwhile, Nahla used the wax from the leaves to create a wind-resistant coating and reinforced the scarves and gloves with strips of fabric. ¡°This should at least keep the worst of the cold out,¡± she said with satisfaction. As they worked, they exchanged lighthearted banter, discussing climbing techniques and the possible dangers they might face. Though uncertainty lay ahead, they took comfort in each other¡¯s company. Night fell, and the sky glittered with stars. Sitting around the crackling campfire, wrapped in their newly made warm clothes, the four of them reflected on everything they had experienced since arriving in this strange land. ¡°Tomorrow, we start the climb,¡± Chong Yue said, gazing toward the distant peak, the firelight casting shadows on his face. ¡°This might be our toughest challenge yet,¡± Eika remarked as she tightened her grip on her short sword. ¡°But at least we¡¯re prepared,¡± Nahla said softly, adjusting her scarf with a small smile. Elias stretched his arms and leaned against a tree, yawning. ¡°Whatever¡¯s up there, I just hope it¡¯s better than fighting elves or hellhounds.¡± At that, the group chuckled, momentarily easing the tension in their hearts. Tomorrow, they would begin their ascent of Giant¡¯s Peak, stepping into the unknown and facing whatever awaited them. The next morning, the sky was overcast, with heavy clouds blocking out the sunlight, casting the entire world in shades of gray. After waking from their restless sleep, the group ate a small portion of their rations before gathering their gear and continuing their ascent toward Giant¡¯s Peak. As they climbed higher, the landscape began to change. The dense vegetation thinned, giving way to bare rocks covered in a thin layer of frost. The air grew colder, the wind howled through the jagged cliffs, and soon, snowflakes drifted down from the sky. At first, the snowfall was light¡ªdelicate ice crystals that settled on their shoulders. But as time passed, the storm intensified, and the wind turned violent, whipping the snow into blinding flurries that made it difficult to see more than a few feet ahead. Each step became a struggle. The thin air and deep snow sapped their energy, and their goal¡ªthe peak¡ªremained as distant as ever, shrouded in white. The weather worsened faster than expected. What had begun as a gentle snowfall had escalated into a full-blown blizzard. The wind howled like a beast, whipping the snow around them in chaotic swirls. Visibility dropped sharply, and every breath felt like ice slicing through their lungs. The cold was unbearable. Snow pelted their faces, stinging like a thousand tiny blades. Every step forward demanded immense effort, and exhaustion quickly took its toll. Nahla, the lightest and least physically resilient of the group, was the first to falter. Her pace slowed, her face pale, and her lips turned a worrying shade of blue. Her breathing became ragged, and finally, her legs buckled beneath her. She collapsed into the snow. ¡°Nahla!¡± Eika, who had been walking behind her, rushed forward, catching her by the shoulders. But Nahla was trembling uncontrollably, her body too weak to stand. Chong Yue¡¯s heart sank. If they didn¡¯t find shelter soon, she would freeze to death. Elias wasn¡¯t faring much better. He had slowed to a crawl, hugging himself for warmth, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Soon, he too sank to his knees, shivering violently. ¡°We need shelter!¡± Eika shouted, her voice barely carrying over the roaring wind. Chong Yue scanned their surroundings. They couldn¡¯t continue like this¡ªpushing forward blindly in this storm was a death sentence. But where could they go? The world was nothing but endless white, the storm swallowing everything in its path. Then¡ª Through the swirling snow, a faint flicker of light caught Chong Yue¡¯s eye. ¡°There¡¯s a light!¡± he shouted, pointing toward it. Hope surged through him. They had no idea what was waiting for them there¡ªbut in that moment, it didn¡¯t matter. Because if they didn¡¯t move now, they wouldn¡¯t survive the storm. With what little strength they had left, they pushed forward toward the light. "Move!" Chong Yue hoisted Elias up, while Eika supported Nahla. Step by step, they forced their way forward, the blizzard relentlessly hammering against them. The wind screamed like a living beast, snow clawed at their faces, and with every agonizing step, it felt like the storm was trying to swallow them whole. But they didn''t stop. They had no choice but to keep going. The moment they stumbled into the cave, warmth hit them like a crashing wave. A fire burned in the center, casting flickering orange light across the walls. The air inside was still cold, but compared to the raging blizzard outside, this was a sanctuary. Chong Yue let out a shaky breath, feeling a momentary relief. But then¡ªhis eyes locked onto the fire. The flames flickered brightly, wood crackling softly¡ªthis was not an abandoned cave. Someone was already here. The realization sent a chill that had nothing to do with the cold. Eika stiffened beside him, her warrior instincts instantly on high alert. ¡°Damn it¡ª¡± Before they could react¡ª The sound of a gun cocking rang through the cave. Metallic. Sharp. Deadly. "Don''t move." A low, commanding voice cut through the silence. "Turn around. Slowly." Chong Yue and Eika exchanged a glance, fully aware that they couldn¡¯t make any rash moves at this moment. Slowly, they raised their hands and turned around as instructed. What met their eyes were three unfamiliar individuals¡ªtwo men and one woman. The first to catch their attention was a tall, muscular man dressed in military fatigues, fully equipped for combat. He had black hair and piercing blue eyes, his expression as cold and unyielding as if carved from stone. Holding a rifle aimed directly at them, his entire presence exuded the trained lethality of a soldier. Beside him stood another blond man, but unlike the soldier¡¯s icy demeanor, he carried a more relaxed and carefree air. His striking red eyes glowed subtly under the dim light. He wore a leather jacket, jeans, and a headband tied around his forehead, giving him a bold and flamboyant appearance. His right hand rested casually on the grip of a holstered handgun¡ªseemingly nonchalant, yet ready to draw at any moment. Lastly, positioned near Nahla and Elias, was a woman with white hair and striking blue eyes. She wore a well-fitted professional uniform and held a sharp dagger in one hand. Her gaze was calm yet piercing, filled with an unreadable sense of mystery. They¡ªwere undoubtedly people who had also been transported here. Yet at this moment, Chong Yue and Eika understood that the situation was overwhelmingly against them. The opposing group was not only well-armed but also had a trained soldier among them. Even if they were all brought here under the same mysterious circumstances, any sudden movement could easily escalate into conflict. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. They had to stay calm and handle this carefully. "Who are you?" The soldier¡¯s voice was low and filled with an imposing presence. He didn¡¯t lower his gun, clearly maintaining high vigilance toward the four unexpected intruders. Chong Yue took a deep breath and tried to keep his tone steady. "We were also transported here by some mysterious force." As soon as he finished speaking, the expressions of the three strangers subtly shifted. Although they concealed it well, that fleeting moment of surprise did not escape Chong Yue¡¯s notice. Seizing this brief hesitation, he quickly added, "We were guided by a mysterious voice to head toward Giant¡¯s Peak. We encountered a storm along the way and only sought shelter here." The cave fell silent for a few seconds, with only the crackling of the fire filling the space. After a brief pause, the man in the leather jacket let out a chuckle, his tone significantly more relaxed than the soldier¡¯s. "They don¡¯t seem to be lying." He loosened his grip on the pistol at his waist and seemed much more at ease. Turning toward the soldier, he smiled. "Come on, Leonid, look at them¡ªhalf-frozen like this, they¡¯re hardly a threat." However, the soldier, Leonid, still did not fully lower his guard. Though he slightly lowered his rifle, his grip on the weapon remained firm. "Lowering your guard is what gets you killed, Ryder." Although the tense standoff had slightly eased, the atmosphere in the cave remained heavy. Both sides remained wary of each other, neither fully letting their guard down. At that moment, the white-haired woman standing to the side finally let out a soft sigh. She crouched down and carefully helped the weakened Nahla and Elias toward the fire, ensuring they were settled in properly. Seeing this, Chong Yue immediately stepped forward to assist. With the injured now tended to, the two groups sat around the fire¡ªyet they still kept a noticeable distance, the air between them thick with tension. Eika remained as composed as ever, but her gaze never left the soldier, watching him with unwavering caution. Meanwhile, Leonid continued to glance toward them from time to time, making it clear that his distrust had not diminished. The cave air felt frozen, both sides quietly sizing each other up. Sensing the awkwardness, the leather-jacketed man, Ryder, was the first to break the silence. He gave a casual smile and said, "So¡­ since we all got sent here, and since Giant¡¯s Peak seems to be everyone¡¯s destination, maybe we¡¯ll have a chance to work together?" Yet, after his words fell, the cave remained silent. After a moment of scanning the room, realizing no one was responding, Ryder tried another approach. "How about¡­ introductions first?" He cleared his throat and took the lead. "I¡¯m Ryder Blaze." Chong Yue saw what Ryder was trying to do. Whether out of politeness or the realization that they might have to work together moving forward, he chose to play along. "Chong Yue," he introduced himself. Ryder¡¯s grin widened slightly, as if relieved, and he extended his hand. "Nice to meet you, Chong Yue." Although Chong Yue did not immediately return the handshake, the tense atmosphere inside the cave¡ªthanks to Ryder¡¯s persistence¡ªbegan shifting into an awkward social setting instead. Not wanting to be the only one engaging, Ryder turned to Elias, silently urging him with a look. Elias sighed and rubbed his forehead before reluctantly answering, "Elias L¨¹ftner." Ryder nodded approvingly, then shifted his attention toward the soldier. "Alright, your turn, buddy." However, the soldier refused to answer. He merely scoffed, turned on his heels, and walked toward the cave entrance, his sharp eyes scanning the snowy landscape outside¡ªclearly unwilling to engage further. Ryder shrugged, flashing a helpless smile. "Well, uh¡­ he¡¯s a bit shy. That¡¯s Leonid Holodov, a Russian soldier." The tension in the air finally started to loosen a little. Nahla nodded slightly and softly said, "I¡¯m Nahla Al-Riyah¡­ And thank you, miss, for helping me earlier." The white-haired woman smiled gently. "No need to thank me. My name is Yennefer¨¦a Lunaviel. You can call me Luna." Finally, Ryder turned to Eika with a gentlemanly smile. "And what about you, beautiful lady? May I know your name?" Eika¡¯s expression remained indifferent as she simply replied, "Tsukimi Eika." With that, the introductions were finally complete. Ryder clapped his hands and said with a smile, ¡°Alright, now that we all know each other, let¡¯s get back to the previous topic¡ªcooperation.¡± Chong Yue took a deep breath and slowly nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking the same. The road ahead will only get tougher. The more people we have, the stronger we¡¯ll be.¡± The firelight flickered, casting shifting shadows on the rocky walls. The cave still held a lingering chill, but the atmosphere had eased significantly compared to earlier. Ryder¡¯s relaxed demeanor served as a lubricant for the negotiation. Leaning casually against the rock wall, he maintained his confident and approachable smile. ¡°So, since we¡¯re agreeing to cooperate, it¡¯s best if we figure out what each of us is good at,¡± he said, looking around with a casual shrug. ¡°Otherwise, when trouble comes, we won¡¯t even know who¡¯s supposed to do what.¡± Nahla lifted her head, her voice slightly hoarse but still earnest. ¡°At the very least, we need to understand each other¡¯s skills and resources. That way, when danger arises, we can all play our part.¡± Eika remained composed, leaning against the rock wall in silence. Though she didn¡¯t voice any objections, her slightly guarded expression made it clear she was still observing and evaluating these new teammates. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go first.¡± Ryder lightly patted his knee before beginning his introduction. Sitting lazily, he tapped his fingers against his leg, his face carrying a faint smirk. ¡°I¡¯m Ryder Blaze. My profession? Well¡­ I guess you could say I¡¯m a farmer now.¡± ¡°I¡¯m from Texas. My family runs a farm. Graduated from Rice University with a degree in Diplomacy, but in the end, I went back home to do farm work.¡± He spoke casually, even with a touch of humor. ¡°Of course, aside from farming, I also have some experience in firearms and close-quarters combat. You know, it¡¯s America¡ªkids growing up handling guns isn¡¯t that unusual.¡± He casually tilted his head toward the handgun on his waist. ¡°I don¡¯t have much gear right now, but for most situations, it should be enough.¡± He paused before adding, ¡°And as you¡¯ve probably noticed, I have outstanding social skills. Don¡¯t be too surprised¡ªafter all, I did study diplomacy.¡± He threw in a joke, attempting to lighten the mood, but what he got in return were the group''s subtle yet complex expressions. "And this guy¡ª" Ryder gestured with his thumb toward the man standing vigil at the cave entrance. "Leonid Kholodov, a Russian soldier. I don¡¯t know much about his background, but I do know he¡¯s been on the battlefield." Hearing his name, Leonid briefly shifted his gaze from the blizzard outside to glance at the group but remained silent. Ryder shrugged and chuckled. "He¡¯s not much of a talker and prefers to operate alone. But if any of you are worried about whether he¡¯s reliable¡ªrest assured. He may be hard to get along with, but he¡¯s definitely a soldier you can trust." At that moment, Yennef¨¦a, who had been silent, finally spoke. "I''m not exactly a combatant," she said in a cool and composed voice, exuding a noble grace. "But I did place second in the French Fencing Championship." She paused, her gaze sweeping across the group before continuing. "I graduated from the ¨¦cole Normale Sup¨¦rieure in Paris, majoring in law. Just started my career¡ªtechnically still an intern lawyer." "I''m skilled in logical analysis, deduction, and intelligence gathering. If necessary, I can also engage in close combat." Her tone remained calm and rational, but her composed demeanor naturally instilled confidence in her abilities. Hearing her introduction, Chong Yue raised an eyebrow slightly, finding the mix of people in this group rather intriguing¡ªan American farmer, a French lawyer, and a Russian soldier¡­ quite an unusual combination. Once Ryder finished introducing his group, he turned to Chong Yue. "So, what about you guys?" After a brief moment of thought, Chong Yue began. "I specialize in economics and management, but being thrown into this world made me realize I have a knack for strategy and planning." He gave a concise summary of both his and Eika¡¯s backgrounds, as well as their experiences in this world. "But over time, we learned how to survive." He glanced at Eika. "We¡¯ve faced goblin attacks and fought against hellhounds. We had no choice but to adapt quickly." Eika coolly added, "I have a background in combat and swordplay. I can handle close-quarters fights." Her response was direct and without any unnecessary words. "Elias is an inventor. He¡¯s skilled in mechanical repairs and can create makeshift tools and equipment." "Nahla has knowledge of herbal medicine and can treat injuries and poisoning." With the introductions complete, both groups had a rough understanding of each other''s abilities. "Sounds like our skills complement each other well," Yennef¨¦a observed. "If we''re serious about reaching the peak of Mount Titan, this cooperation will be necessary." Leonid gave a slight nod, signaling his acceptance of the decision. "In that case, we should devise a travel plan," Chong Yue suggested. "The weather will only worsen the higher we go. The biggest threats will be the blizzards and freezing winds." Ryder clapped his hands lightly. "Alright then, let¡¯s talk strategy¡ªafter all, the dangers on this mountain are just beginning." The fire crackled, casting flickering shadows over the group¡¯s serious expressions. Their discussion continued, but before they could finalize their plan, a deep, guttural growl echoed from the cave entrance. It was as if something inhuman lurked within the storm outside. Inside the cave, the fire flickered, casting shadows over the group''s tense expressions. Their discussion continued, but suddenly, a deep growl echoed from the entrance¡ªlike something inhuman lurking within the storm. Everyone instantly went on high alert. Leonid was the first to rise, raising his rifle slightly, his sharp gaze locked onto the cave entrance. "What was that?" Elias asked in a hushed tone, his voice tinged with tension. "Stay quiet," Leonid replied coldly, his entire posture still and focused like a hunting falcon. However, in the next second¡ª A towering creature, nearly four meters tall, burst through the snowstorm. Its body was covered in thick white fur, muscles knotted beneath its hide, and its crimson eyes gleamed with an unnatural glow. Hot white breath billowed from its nostrils. It lacked sharp claws or fangs but had massive fists and powerful arms, radiating raw, primal strength. A yeti! The fire flickered violently as the howling wind rushed into the cave, and the air instantly became suffocating. ¡°Damn it! A yeti!¡± Ryder cursed, drawing his handgun and firing immediately. The bullet struck the yeti¡¯s shoulder, embedding itself in its flesh¡ªbut the creature barely reacted. ¡°Its skin is too thick!¡± Elias cried out, scrambling backward. ¡°Spread out! Don¡¯t engage it head-on!¡± Leonid barked, adjusting his rifle and aiming for the yeti¡¯s eyes before pulling the trigger. Bang! The bullet grazed the yeti¡¯s cheek, drawing a thin streak of blood, but failing to strike a vital point. With a deafening roar, the yeti lunged forward, raising its massive arm and swinging it down toward Nahla! "Look out!" In a split second, Leonid shoved Nahla aside, using his own body to take the blow. Boom¡ª! A dull impact rang through the cave as the yeti¡¯s massive fist crashed into Leonid¡¯s right leg, sending him hurtling backward. A sickening crack echoed as he smashed against the rocky wall, his face turning pale as blood trickled from the corner of his mouth. ¡°Leonid!¡± Nahla gasped, eyes wide with shock. But Leonid didn¡¯t go down so easily. Clenching his teeth against the pain, he raised his rifle and fired again. Bang! Bang! Bang! Finally, one of his bullets struck the yeti¡¯s left eye! The beast let out an agonized screech, stumbling backward. ¡°Eika!¡± Ryder suddenly shouted, taking aim at the yeti¡¯s remaining eye and firing. Bang! The yeti''s head jerked to the side, but it still didn¡¯t fall. "Now!" With a sharp breath, Eika grabbed a stone sword, spun her body in a full turn, and hurled it with all her strength. Whoosh¡ª! The stone blade tore through the air and pierced straight into the yeti¡¯s throat! The monster let out a guttural gurgle, its body convulsing violently before finally collapsing, blood staining the ground. But the danger was far from over. ¡°There¡¯s more than one!¡± Yennef¨¦a suddenly turned toward the cave entrance, her blue eyes reflecting two massive figures approaching. "Damn it, there are two more!" The wind howled as the two yetis stepped inside, their crimson eyes gleaming murderously in the firelight. The group¡¯s hearts sank. One had already been a struggle¡ªnow there were two? "Chong Yue, command!" Eika swiftly sidestepped, putting distance between herself and the incoming yetis while keeping them in her sights. Chong Yue took a deep breath, his mind racing. He quickly made a decision. ¡°We retreat! Leonid is injured¡ªwe can¡¯t afford a direct fight!¡± ¡°Elias, Luna, get Leonid and Nahla further inside the cave! Move!¡± Elias immediately rushed forward, grabbing Leonid¡¯s arm, while Yennef¨¦a supported him from the other side. ¡°Eika, Ryder, cover our retreat!¡± Ryder muttered a curse but nodded. ¡°Got it!¡± The yetis roared as they lunged forward. Ryder fired his pistol, but the creatures were too fast. The bullets only grazed their fur, failing to bring them down. ¡°Shit!¡± Chong Yue¡¯s eyes flicked to the grenades strapped to Leonid¡¯s tactical vest. Without hesitation, he ripped one off. Then he shouted, "Eika, Ryder, fall back now!" Everyone retreated deeper into the cave as the yetis barreled after them. Chong Yue yanked the pin and, with precise aim, hurled the grenade at the yetis. Boom¡ª! The explosion rocked the cave, sending a tremor through the ground. Rocks and debris collapsed from the ceiling, sealing the entrance shut! The blizzard¡¯s howls were instantly cut off. Darkness swallowed the cave, and the group collapsed onto the ground, panting heavily. The yetis¡¯ roars were muffled by the thick stone barrier, slowly fading into the distance. ¡°How¡¯s Leonid?¡± Chong Yue immediately turned to Nahla, his voice urgent. Elias fumbled with his backpack, pulling out a flashlight. The dim light illuminated the cave¡¯s interior. Leonid¡¯s right leg was bent at an unnatural angle¡ªfractured. ¡°It¡¯s bad,¡± Nahla murmured, her brows furrowed as she quickly assessed the injury. ¡°Luna, cut open his pant leg.¡± Yennef¨¦a nodded, pulling out a small knife and slicing the fabric away to reveal Leonid¡¯s swollen, darkened leg. ¡°We need to stabilize it,¡± Nahla said calmly. ¡°Without a proper splint, we¡¯ll have to improvise with sticks and cloth.¡± Chong Yue immediately dismantled his stone spear, breaking it into four segments. ¡°If it hurts, bite on this,¡± Yennef¨¦a offered Leonid a piece of cloth, her voice as composed as ever. Leonid let out a low grunt but didn¡¯t refuse. ¡°Chong Yue, my satchel has powdered Drynaria fortunei¡ªcould you mix it with honey for me.¡± Nahla instructed as she continued tending to the wound. Elias held the flashlight steady, its beam casting a soft glow over the group as they worked. Meanwhile, Ryder and Eika exchanged glances, their eyes drifting toward the cave¡¯s dark depths. They all knew¡ªthere was only one way forward now.