Karnessa walks forward slowly, barefoot against the cool grass. Her breath hitches with every step. She stands in the center, eyes darting toward the trees, waiting for something—anything.
Alix's voice cuts through the morning quiet like a blade.
"Survive."
And then he vanishes.
Karnessa blinks. Her mouth opens slightly. "…Wha—?"
Snap.
A branch cracks from the right.
Her soul nearly leaves her body.
Something heavy thuds onto the forest floor behind the treeline. A low growl follows. Her blood runs cold.
From the shadows, a beast steps forward—thick fur matted with dirt and dried blood, claws like hooked daggers, yellow eyes locked on her. A Tier 3 predator. Its maw drips with anticipation.
Karnessa takes a trembling step back. Her voice comes out hoarse.
"Master…?"
No answer.
She looks around, heart pounding, but Alix is gone. Not a trace of him anywhere.
The beast growls again and begins circling.
