READ NOVEL ONLINE Chapter 4: The Alpha’s Trial
The Alpha's Trial
The colossal bear's eyes locked with Ryu's as it charged, the ground trembling under its massive paws. Its ferocious roar echoed through the clearing, but Ryu's focus was razor-sharp. The hum from the crystal still vibrated in his bones, and the echo of the vision—The Alpha's destiny is not to follow, but to lead—resonated in his mind.
Ryu's muscles tensed, and the newly acquired Alpha Sense flared to life. He could feel the weight of the creature's power, but he also sensed something else: the bear's movements were predictable, based on its immense strength rather than agility. It was powerful, but slow.
With a growl of determination, Ryu crouched, his paws digging into the dirt. He didn't just have strength now—he had something more. He had adaptability, the ability to adapt and grow with every battle. This bear wasn't just another fight—it was his trial, the trial of the Alpha. He would prove to himself and this world that he was worthy of what the crystal had shown him.
The Clash
The bear was almost upon him, and without hesitation, Ryu leapt to the side, narrowly avoiding the bear's massive claws that could easily tear through trees. His movements were faster now, more precise—Alpha Sense gave him perfect awareness of the bear's next move.
He spun mid-air, landing gracefully on all fours, facing the bear again. The bear roared in frustration, swiping wildly, but Ryu darted in, getting close enough to land a swift bite on its thick hide. The taste of blood filled his mouth, and he winced. The creature was strong, but his senses were telling him something crucial.
I can defeat it. I just need to wear it down.
The Adaptation
Ryu's new skill—Beast Assimilation—was his key to victory. As he dodged another strike, his mind raced with possibilities. If he could learn from the bear, adapt to its power, maybe he could overcome it.
In a single, swift movement, Ryu leapt onto the bear's back, his claws digging into its fur for leverage. The bear roared and tried to buck him off, but Ryu held on, his teeth sinking into the bear's thick neck. His mind expanded, the world slowing down as he focused on absorbing its power.
The Power Within
The moment Ryu's fangs made contact with the bear's flesh, something incredible happened. A surge of energy rushed through him. He felt his body expand, his senses deepen. The bear's strength began to flow into him, and the world seemed to pulse with power.
Beast Assimilation: Level 1
Bear's Power: Gained
Strength +10
Claws: Sharpened
A low growl rumbled in Ryu's throat as he felt the bear's might coursing through him. His muscles rippled, his claws extended, and his form grew even more imposing. He wasn't just adapting to the bear's abilities; he was becoming it.
Turning the Tide
Now with the bear's strength, Ryu launched himself off its back, landing nimbly on the ground. The bear stumbled, disoriented from the sudden shift in power. Its eyes glowed with confusion and fury as it turned to face Ryu, now stronger and faster than before.
Ryu let out a challenge of his own, feeling the weight of his new power. His claws were longer, sharper, and with each movement, his body seemed to reflect the bear's raw force. With one quick swipe, Ryu slashed across the bear's chest, cutting deep. The creature howled in pain and staggered back, its energy starting to wane.
Ryu wasn't about to let it recover. His claws flicked out, each strike more precise than the last, landing blows that felt like they could shake the very foundation of the forest.
The Final Blow
With one final, powerful roar, Ryu lunged. His claws pierced the air, cutting through the bear's hide and striking its heart. The massive creature let out a final, pained roar before collapsing to the ground. The earth shook with the impact.
Ryu stood over the fallen beast, breathing heavily, his body trembling from the intensity of the battle. His senses, still heightened, allowed him to feel the bear's essence slip away. He had done it.
The moment the bear fell, a surge of new power filled him. His body thrummed with the energy of the beast he had consumed.
The Aftermath
Panting, Ryu took a moment to gather himself. The clearing was eerily quiet again, the distant sound of wind rustling through the trees the only noise. The massive form of the bear lay before him, a testament to his victory.
As Ryu looked down at his claws, now sharper and longer, a thought crossed his mind.
This is just the beginning.
With his new power, his sense of purpose grew clearer. The crystal's glow had shown him a glimpse of his destiny—the Alpha. But the path ahead would not be easy. He could feel it deep within his bones: this world was full of dangers greater than the bear, and he was far from finished with his trials.
The Call to Adventure
Suddenly, a sharp, echoing howl pierced the air. Ryu's ears perked up, and he froze. This was no ordinary howl—it was the call of another predator, one unlike anything he'd encountered before.
A new presence. A new challenge.
The journey was far from over. And Ryu had no intention of backing down.
Cliffhanger Ending
The chapter ends with Ryu turning toward the source of the howl, his body already moving, his instincts screaming for him to face whatever danger lay ahead.