After an hour of hiking deeper into the forest, the group came upon a mossy clearing bordered by massive trees and glowing blue mushrooms. The air here was thicker with mana, each breath almost energizing.
"This will do," Cynthia said, surveying the area. "Flat ground, lots of tree coverage, close to a mana stream perfect spot to camp."
They set up their tents in a loose circle, and a small mana-fueled fire was ignited at the center. As the flames flickered, casting dancing shadows across the forest floor, Cynthia crossed her arms.
"We can't afford to fall behind. Other groups are already out hunting. We need to get more points before nightfall," she said. "I suggest we split up and go hunting in pairs."
Kael, who was seated on a moss-covered stone, looked up lazily. "I'll go with Chloe."
Cynthia blinked, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. Damn Kael… playing hard to get again? Making bold moves, huh? she thought. But outwardly, she kept her expression neutral and smirked.
"Sure," she said casually. "Then I'll take Max and Jace. Let's meet back here by 5 p.m. at the latest. Don't push yourselves too far out."
Everyone nodded.
Kael stood and adjusted the sword on his back as he and Chloe veered off to the right side of the forest path. The further they walked, the quieter it got, only the crunch of twigs underfoot and the occasional bird cry above them breaking the silence.
He glanced sideways at Chloe, who was looking ahead, composed but clearly not used to leading conversations.
"So," Kael said, "you're a water core user. Long-range support, right?"
She nodded, eyes still forward. "Yes. I focus on mobility and containment spells."
"Smart," he said. "Makes sense especially for someone from the Thaylorin line."
That got her attention.
She turned toward him slowly, her blue eyes wide. "You know about my family?"
"I know the Thaylorins are a branch of the Glacern house. Water specialists. Old money. Cold politics."
Chloe gave a small, uncertain smile. "That's… accurate."
Kael noted her guarded tone and decided not to press yet. I can learn more once I've built some trust, he thought. Besides, I still have to ask Cynthia more about Jin later.
Just then, a rustling in the bushes snapped both of them into alert mode.
Kael's eyes narrowed.
Chloe took a step back, mana already flowing to her hands.
From the far end of the clearing, a hulking form lumbered into view standing nearly ten feet tall, with bristling black fur and deep crimson eyes.
"A mana bear," Chloe whispered. "Thick hide… fast regen… C-rank beast, maybe higher."
Kael smirked, drawing his blade as shadows coiled faintly around the edge.
"Perfect. Let's see how well we work together."
The bear let out a guttural roar that echoed through the trees.
And the hunt began.