Chapter 3 The World Left Behind

The Current World

The sky always looked gray now. It had been ten years since the "Gates of Darkness" appeared, and the world hadn't seen the sun like it used to. What was once a thriving, modern world now lay in ruins-silent and lifeless, like a fading memory of the past.

Humans, who once ruled the earth, were now the hunted. Creatures that had existed only in folklore emerged from the shadows-vampires with glowing red eyes, bloodthirsty werewolves, and other unnamed beings of darkness. They tore cities apart, hunted humans, and claimed the world as their own.

Once-great cities like Vardhall, Eldermoor, and Kaelshaven were now nothing more than graveyards. Skyscrapers had crumbled, streets were overgrown with wild plants, and the air was always thick with the stench of death. Only small groups of humans remained, hiding in places no creature of darkness could easily reach.

**The Survivors**

In this merciless world, the remaining humans formed hidden communities. They lived in caves, underground tunnels, or deep forests-places too remote or dangerous for the creatures to find. Food was scarce, fighting was a daily routine, and fear became a constant companion.

But not all hope was lost. These groups weren't just surviving; they were resisting. In the shadows of destruction, small bands of rebels began to rise. They were scattered and weak, but they fought back.

And among them, one name was always spoken with dread: Fenrir Bloodfang. The legendary alpha werewolf, a brutal leader who ruled the land with overwhelming force. Fenrir wasn't just a leader-he was a symbol of destruction. Wherever he went, fire and blood followed.

**The Hidden Settlement**

One of the hidden human settlements was deep within a massive cave beneath the Thaldrim Peaks. This cave wasn't just naturally fortified; it was also rigged with traps and puzzles to keep the creatures of darkness out. Here, the remnants of humanity from various cities banded together, forming a small community fighting for survival.

But even this place wasn't truly safe. Scouts from the creatures of darkness had been spotted nearby, and Fenrir continued his relentless hunt for the last of humanity to solidify his dominance.

The gray sky over the Thaldrim forest grew even darker as distant howls echoed through the night. Among the ruins and shadows of a broken world, a spark of determination burned in the hearts of those who remained. The world had turned into a battlefield, and humanity stood on the brink of extinction.

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Introducing Sigrid

**POV: Sigrid**

I've always hated that sound. The howling. It was a reminder of their power over us, a chilling echo of the night they destroyed my life.

Crouching low between the tall trees and dew-soaked undergrowth, I narrowed my eyes at the large deer grazing ahead. It was close enough to strike, but I didn't rush. My breathing stayed steady, my hands kept still. One small mistake, and the deer would flee-or worse, I'd attract something deadlier than my prey. "Calm down... you know how to do this. Focus on its neck. Breathe slowly, don't rush."

The deer lifted its head. I froze, not daring to move. The wind shifted, carrying my scent, but thankfully not toward it. I held my breath, my eyes locked on the deer.

"Wait... just a little longer. Wait until it lets its guard down."

The deer lowered its head again, grazing without suspicion. My heart pounded faster. This was the moment. I gripped my spear tighter, lifting it slowly.

"Just one throw. If I miss, it'll run, and I'll go home empty-handed. Nothing to eat. Nothing to give them."

With a quick but steady motion, I hurled my spear. The weapon flew fast and struck the deer's neck just as I had envisioned. The loud crash of its body hitting the ground broke the forest's silence.

"Got it," I muttered as I stood. I walked closer, my breathing still steady despite the adrenaline coursing through me. The deer lay sprawled on the ground, blood flowing from the wound on its neck. I ensured it wasn't moving anymore before pulling my spear free.

I wiped the blood off the spear's tip with an old cloth I carried, my eyes fixed on the deer. A sense of satisfaction crept into my mind, but I didn't allow myself to indulge for too long.

"This isn't about pride... this is about survival. If I fail, they'll go hungry. If I let my guard down, I could die."

I tied the deer's legs with the rope I had brought, preparing to drag it home. But before I began, I paused, letting a moment of gratitude fill my chest.

"Once, I could never imagine doing this. I was just a weak little kid, afraid of my own shadow. But ten years... ten years can change a person."

I stood, slinging the spear onto my back. The journey home would be long, and this forest held dangers far greater than wild animals. But I was ready.

"Let's go... before night falls."

Sigrid Valkyrie. That name had become more than just a name now. It was a reminder of my past, my family, and the unshakable vow to one day make Fenrir Bloodfang pay for what he'd done.

With a deep breath, I hoisted the deer onto my back and began the long walk home.

**The Journey Back**

The forest around the Thaldrim Peaks was never truly quiet. Even though the werewolf howls echoed from far away, I knew they were always near. I could feel their presence, like a cold wind brushing against the back of my neck.

After several miles, I reached the hidden entrance to our settlement-a cave nestled within the steep cliffs. Setting the deer down, I ran my fingers along the rocky surface, searching for a specific pattern. Slowly, a massive stone door with intricate carvings creaked open as I pressed the right symbols.

"Still safe," I muttered to myself as I dragged the deer inside.

**The Hidden Community**

Inside the cave, the air was warmer and filled with the subtle hum of life. Torches lined the walls, casting flickering light across the winding paths. Small fields had been carved out, where older members tended to crops, and an open training area echoed with the sounds of clashing weapons. This was our home now-the place we fought to protect against a world that no longer belonged to us.

"Sigrid!" a small voice called out. Bjorn, a young boy who always got excited when I returned with food, ran up to me. His wide eyes grew even bigger at the sight of the deer slung over my shoulder. "Wow! You killed it by yourself again?"

"Of course," I replied with a faint smile, dropping the deer near the community kitchen. "Now it's your turn. If you want to be a hunter, you'll help butcher it."

Bjorn nodded enthusiastically, but before he could say anything else, a familiar voice called from the end of the corridor.

"Sigrid," the deep voice rumbled. I turned to see Einar, the old man who had taken me in after Vardhall fell. His face was more serious than usual. "I need to speak with you. Meet me in my quarters when you're done here."

I nodded silently. Whatever he had to say, it was important-I could tell by the weight in his voice.

I watched Einar walk away, a storm of thoughts churning in my mind. What could have him so on edge? Whatever it was, I knew one thing for sure: his decisions were always tied to this war, and this war was far from over.