As the morning mist curled through the forest canopy, Travis moved with quiet determination. His instincts, honed by battles and the Ascension System, guided him through twisted roots and damp earth. The trail was fresh—blood, scattered prints, and broken branches.
"The demonic hog's lair must be close…"
A few more paces revealed a secluded valley, cradled by jagged ridges and veiled in a curtain of fog. The air was sweet with the scent of spiritual fruit—almost intoxicating. At the heart of the grove stood a towering tree bearing golden, glowing fruit that shimmered like molten pearls.
Beneath it: a Level 4 sow—the demonic hog matriarch—and her two Level 2 hoglings, their eyes alert, their bodies relaxed beneath their mother's massive presence.
"These fruits… they're not just rare. They're spiritual-grade. Perfect for reaching the Profound Core Realm…" Travis thought, his gaze sharpening.
Without hesitation, he acted.
"Star Devouring Saber Art—First Verse: Rising Ember Slash!"
