The Shadow Wolf's claws scraped the earth where Leonardo had stood just a second ago. It let out a frustrated snarl, its yellow eyes narrowing as it scanned for its prey.
Leonardo was panting, his heart racing. The [Flicker Step] had drained 2 points of his mana instantly. Current Mana: 3/100.
"I can only use it one more time," Leonardo muttered, his eyes darting around. He noticed a sharp, jagged piece of obsidian rock near the waterfall. If he could reach it, he might have a chance.
The wolf lunged again, faster this time.
[System Prompt: Tactical Analysis — Use the environment!]
As the beast leaped, Leonardo didn't run away. Instead, he waited until the last possible millisecond. "Flicker Step!"
A flash of blue light—and he appeared directly behind the wolf. Before the creature could turn, Leonardo grabbed the sharp obsidian shard and drove it with all his might into the wolf's neck.
The wolf let out a pained howl, thrashing wildly until it finally went limp. Leonardo collapsed to the ground, his mana completely exhausted.
Ding!
[Target Neutralized!] Experience Gained: +50 EXP [Level Up!] Current Level: 2 Stat Points Awarded: +2 Strength, +2 Agility.
A wave of intense energy washed over him, even stronger than before. His muscles felt tighter, his vision sharper. But as he stood up to leave, the blue screen flickered once more with a message that made his blood run cold:
[Hidden Quest Triggered: The Princess's Secret] Description: Reach the castle gates before dawn. Someone is watching you from the towers.