Before he could finish, the Rank S man charged forward, stomping so hard the whole shelter shook. Lucas twisted his body, barely dodging a punch aimed at his shoulder. It was clear now, this wasn’t just intimidation, they were out to kill.
Lucas retreated, eyes scanning, nowhere to run. Only the shelter, and a few piles of rocks and tree roots nearby. He couldn’t stall for long.
The girl began chanting a skill. A greenish glow lit up beneath the Rank S man’s feet, and his speed increased instantly. Lucas had to dodge twice in quick succession, crashing into a post to avoid two rapid strikes.
“Got them yet?” Ethan’s voice rang out behind Lucas.
Both intruders froze.
“That’s enough.” Stella said softly, raising her hand.
All the vines around the shelter suddenly contracted, snapping ti
