The sun dipped below the horizon as Lyrus stepped into the wilderness, leaving behind the ruins of his family's once-proud estate. The wind was cold, carrying the scent of earth and pine, and the faint howls of distant beasts echoed through the trees. He clutched the worn strap of his bag, his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and exhilaration.
Each step he took sent a surge of power through his body, a sensation so intoxicating it felt unreal. His once-weak frame now pulsed with energy, his muscles brimming with strength he had never known.
Stopping in a clearing, he glanced down at his hands, flexing his fingers. "This system… it's real. I can feel it." The Million Steps System was no illusion. It wasn't just his strength that grew with each step—his senses sharpened, his instincts heightened, and his confidence swelled.
But the wilderness was unforgiving. As the moonlight filtered through the trees, a low growl caught his attention. He turned to see an Ironhide Wolf, its silver fur gleaming like armor. It stalked toward him, fangs bared and eyes glowing with predatory intent.
Lyrus froze. The old him would've cowered, but now, something inside him burned. He stepped forward. The ground cracked beneath his foot, and his aura flared with newfound power.
The wolf lunged, its claws slicing through the air. Lyrus met it with a single punch. The impact was explosive, sending shockwaves through the clearing. The wolf crumpled to the ground, lifeless. Panting, Lyrus stared at the beast's body, then at his hands. "This power… it's only the beginning."
As the night deepened, Lyrus pressed forward, his steps echoing with the promise of a brighter future.