Upon their return from the Grand Beast Emporium, Bane found himself pleasantly surprised by a thoughtful gesture. A more spacious room had been arranged for him, ensuring both his comfort and the suitable accommodation of his newly acquired Razorclaw Mantis for the duration of their stay at the Ironstalker Estate.

Now settled into the room with his beast companion, Bane felt a sense of tranquility that contrasted the rough events of the day. With a hint of determination, he voiced his plans to his tame. "Let's first get comfortable, then we can talk," he said, tossing his luggage onto the bed placed against the far left wall of the room.

The room itself was remarkably spacious, even bigger than his previous quarters. Its design was considerate of his Razorclaw Mantis, featuring a balcony that offered easy access for the creature to come and go as it pleased.

Bane began the process of unpacking, neatly arranging his clothing and books in their designated spaces. He retrieved the longbow from his belongings, examining it closely.

"I haven't given this thing a proper chance yet. Master Garrik will surely give me an earful about my lack of training these past few days," he mused aloud.

Glancing toward his Razorclaw Mantis, Bane's thoughts shifted to a tactical idea. "Your speed is remarkable. If I can somehow combine your speed with ranged attacks, wouldn't that make for an incredibly perfect combination?" The Mantis tilted its head with curiosity, unable to understand the words but seemingly attuned to his master's intentions.

Dismissing the topic, Bane redirected his focus to the longbow in his grasp. "Well, I have the guide that Master Garrik gave me," he muttered to himself, as he retrieved the instructional guide from his bag.

Bane delved deep into the book's contents, losing track of time and even dismissing his tame for hours. It was only when his companion finally approached and nudged him that he snapped back to reality.

"What's wrong?" Bane inquired as he noticed the Razorclaw Mantis' odd behavior.

Communication barriers made it difficult to understand the creature's intentions until a loud, unmistakable grumbling sound echoed in the room.

Bane couldn't help but burst into laughter. "I'm sure you're just as hungry as I am," he explained with a chuckle, his own stomach joining in with a grumble after hours of going without a meal.

"Wait here, buddy, I'll get us a feast," Bane declared before rushing out of the room and heading to Eston's study.

Without bothering to knock, Bane burst into the study and blurted out, "What do I feed the Razorclaw Mantis?"

Eston's lips curled into a smile. "It's a carnivorous beast, so feed it meat. Go to the kitchen and tell the maids to bring ten kilos of double-headed ostrich meat. It's a rank two beast, so the mana in its meat will be beneficial to both of you. Besides that," Eston paused and pointed to a book on the shelf, "take that beast encyclopedia. Researching your own tame is a valuable skill. This will be the last time I assist you with such basic matters."

Bane bowed in acknowledgment, grabbed the book, and swiftly exited the study. As he left, Eston couldn't help but watch him fondly. "You really remind me too much of my own boy," he murmured to himself.

***

Bane ventured into the kitchen and spotted the familiar maid who usually assisted him. Approaching her with caution, he greeted, "Hey, sir Eston said that I could get ten kilos of double-headed ostrich meat."

Pausing her tasks, the maid shifted her focus towards Bane, her smile warm and friendly. "Bane, you've been occupied in your room for quite a while, so we haven't had much chance to chat," she mentioned. After a brief pause, she added, "But, congratulations on your awakening!"

With a hint of unease, Bane replied, "Thank you, but the reason I've been in my room is that time's running out before I have to leave again, so I'm trying to absorb as much knowledge as I can."

She nodded understandingly, "No problem. As per your request, we'll have the meat brought to your room. And I'll also include some of our special daily dishes for you."

Thanking her, Bane hurried back to his room, hoping to avoid any unnecessary interactions along the way. Once safely back in his room, however, something seemed amiss—the Razorclaw Mantis was nowhere to be found.

"Hey, buddy, where are you?" Bane called out, his voice echoing in the empty room.

Failing to receive a response, he scanned the area, growing increasingly concerned. "Could it have run away?" he wondered aloud.

As he turned around, a sudden weight plummeted onto his body, knocking the wind out of him and causing him to collapse to the floor. Reacting swiftly, Bane regained his footing and quickly moved backward, putting some distance between him and his unexpected attacker.

As Bane regained his stance and assessed the situation, his eyes fell upon his attacker—the Razorclaw Mantis. The creature's appearance was a mesmerizing blend of dark greens and iridescent blues that shimmered under the room's lighting. Its compact yet powerful body stood at an imposing height of two meters, with a length of three meters, showcasing a unique mix of elegance and lethality.

The mantis's exoskeleton bore intricate patterns that seemed to dance with the changing light, giving it an almost mystical aura. The sharp, serrated edges of its forelimbs, the eponymous razor-sharp claws, were the standout features that held an almost otherworldly quality. Each claw looked as if it could cut through the toughest of materials with effortless precision.

As Bane's gaze met the creature's multifaceted eyes, he could sense a new intelligence within them—a connection that seemed to transcend the barrier between human and beast. The Razorclaw Mantis's gaze bore a mixture of curiosity and recognition, acknowledging the bond they had forged earlier.

At that moment, as Bane and the Razorclaw Mantis locked eyes, an unspoken understanding passed between them. The beast's actions weren't those of an aggressor; rather, it seemed to be playfully testing its newfound master.

Understanding the Razorclaw Mantis's intention, Bane took a step forward and tensed up all his muscles, a blend of anticipation and determination.

He made the first move, lunging forward with a swift motion, his hand reaching for the short knife concealed in his sleeve. The Razorclaw Mantis reacted with a calculated grace, sidestepping Bane's advance with fluid agility that took him by surprise.

Undeterred, Bane pivoted on his heel, slashing the air with the knife as he attempted a horizontal strike. The Razorclaw Mantis's reaction was a testament to its heightened reflexes—it elegantly ducked under the blade, its movements mirroring the grace of a dancer evading an unseen partner.

As Bane recovered from the missed strike, the Razorclaw Mantis capitalized on the opening, delivering a swift tap with one of its clawed limbs. Bane felt a light impact against his side, a gentle reminder that the creature had effortlessly exploited his vulnerability and could've won the fight at that moment.

Regaining his balance, Bane grinned at the Razorclaw Mantis, a mixture of admiration and competitiveness shining in his eyes. He feigned a straightforward charge, hoping to catch the creature off guard, but it was ready. With a twist of its body, the Razorclaw Mantis gracefully sidestepped Bane's attack once again.

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

Bane's short knife sliced through the air with a satisfying swoosh, but the Razorclaw Mantis remained elusive, its movements precise and elegant. Bane's respect for the creature's combat prowess grew with every step, and he knew he was facing a challenge unlike any other.

The Razorclaw Mantis chose its moment to strike, launching a swift, calculated assault that left Bane with little room to react. A flurry of precise movements from the creature left Bane momentarily disoriented, its sharp claws coming dangerously close. In a last-ditch effort to defend himself, Bane instinctively raised his arm, the short knife gleaming in his hand.

The Razorclaw Mantis halted its attack, its claws mere inches from Bane's arm. The two opponents stood frozen at that moment, the air thick with tension. Bane's heart raced, his breath heavy as he realized the sheer skill and control his partner had displayed.

With a confident tilt of its head, the Razorclaw Mantis retracted, wearing an air of self-satisfaction for triumphing over its master. Bane gradually lowered his arm, his admiration for the creature gleaming in his eyes. A chuckle escaped him as he shook his head in sheer astonishment.

"Well played," Bane said, acknowledging the Razorclaw Mantis's victory. The creature responded with a subtle flicker of its antennae, a gesture that seemed almost like a nod of appreciation.

As they stood there, the recently forged bond between them had deepened ever so slightly.

The silence in the room was broken by a series of knocks, as five maids walked in, each carrying trays laden with an abundance of meat that far exceeded Bane's expectations of what ten kilos of meat looked like. The meat was raw, rendering it inedible for Bane, yet the gaze of the Razorclaw Mantis remained fixated on the irresistible aroma.

The maids set the meat on the floor and arranged the trays of food on the table. Completing their tasks efficiently, they departed from the room, seemingly untroubled by the presence of the Razorclaw Mantis.

"Time for a well-deserved meal, my friend," Bane remarked as he strolled towards the table. As he turned away, the Razorclaw Mantis wasted no time in tucking into the spread of meat, its feasting accompanied by the squelching sounds echoing around the room.

Seated in a chair at the table, Bane uncovered his own array of dishes. Before him rested a cooked version of the meat his companion was devouring behind him. A bowl of steaming, red-hued soup caught his attention, a note indicating "red bean soup" placed nearby. The table also boasted other delights: assorted meats, a piece of chocolate cake, and a refreshing drink that seemed to rival the pristine waters of his spatial realm.

With his appetite whetted, Bane heartily indulged in the meal.

As he dipped his spoon into the rich, crimson liquid, the aroma of the soup enveloped him in its comforting embrace. With the first taste, the flavors danced upon his tongue. The soup was hearty and velvety, with the slight sweetness of the red beans complemented by savory undertones. Each spoonful was an adventure to Bane, a harmonious blend of textures that ranged from tender beans to silky broth. It was a warming embrace, a taste of comfort that seemed to chase away any lingering worries.

Moving on to the meats, Bane savored each tender bite with relish. The variety of cuts showcased a mastery of culinary craftsmanship. A succulent slice of roasted meat offered a pleasing contrast between the crispy exterior and the juicy tenderness within. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the meticulous seasoning and careful preparation. The accompanying meats offered their own unique delights - some marinated to perfection, others grilled to smoky perfection. Each morsel was a celebration of taste, a testament to the artistry of the chef.

Then came the pièce de résistance, the slice of chocolate cake that beckoned to him with its decadent allure. With his fork, Bane carved into the moist, velvety layers, the utensil gliding effortlessly through the cake. As he brought the first forkful to his lips, his taste buds were met with a symphony of flavors. The chocolate was rich and indulgent, its sweetness perfectly balanced by a hint of bitterness. The cake practically melted on his tongue, a dance of textures that ranged from the silken cake to the velvety ganache. Each bite was a moment of pure indulgence, a taste that transported him to a realm of pure pleasure.

With his palate thoroughly satisfied, Bane picked up the lemony drink. The glass felt cool against his fingers, and as he brought it to his lips, the invigorating aroma of fresh lemons greeted him. The first sip was a burst of zesty citrus, a burst of refreshing tanginess that swept through his senses. The drink was a perfect companion to the rich flavors that had come before, its bright acidity cleansing his palate and leaving behind a revitalizing sensation.

As Bane savored the last remnants of his feast, he felt a deep contentment settle over him. The meal had been more than nourishment; it had been a journey of taste and texture, a reminder of the simple joys that life could offer. With a satisfied sigh, he leaned back in his chair, grateful for the experience.

The soft clicking of the Razorclaw mantis's mandibles reached Bane's ears, a gentle sound that seemed to convey a sense of satisfaction. Turning to face his companion, Bane found the mantis kneeling down, its posture almost resembling a gesture of gratitude. He pondered how to reciprocate this unspoken interaction, remembering the affectionate kiss that Eston had bestowed upon the fire drake earlier. Feeling a bit shy about showing too much emotion, he settled for a reassuring pat on the mantis's head.

As Bane's hand met the mantis's exoskeleton, a series of low, contented growls emanated from the creature. It was as though the act of physical contact resonated with the mantis's instincts, creating a bond of sorts between them. Lost in the moment, Bane continued the gentle petting session, the growls serving as a harmonious backdrop to their silent communication.

After a few minutes, Bane rose from his seat, a sense of purpose driving him forward. He turned to his companion and proposed a plan for the afternoon. "We still have a couple of hours before sunset. How about we head to the training grounds and put into practice what I've been reading in this book?" The mantis tilted its head in response, a gesture that Bane took as an agreement.

Leaving his chair behind, Bane picked up the longbow and made his way to the balcony. He glanced over at his companion, a query forming in his mind. "You do have wings, right?" Bane inquired, his gaze fixed on the mantis. In response, the mantis unfurled its wings, a display of intricate design and grace. The wings stretched and fluttered, a testament to the creature's eagerness to take flight once again.

With a burst of energy, the mantis took to the sky, its flight a dance of freedom and joy. It soared through the air, wings slicing through the wind with precision. Bane watched with a smile, the exhilaration of flight evident in the mantis's every movement. The creature's joy was infectious, and Bane couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to its exuberance.

As the mantis glided back down to him, Bane's smile remained, his affection for his newfound companion growing stronger. "Come down now," he beckoned, a mix of encouragement and camaraderie in his voice. The mantis obliged, landing gracefully beside Bane with a soft thud.

Overflowing with excitement, Bane's voice carried a childlike enthusiasm as he posed his question to the mantis. "Hey, do you think you could, you know, fly with me on your back?"

With the Mantis's affirmative nod, Bane's excitement grew even more palpable. He approached the creature cautiously, assessing how he might position himself on its back. As he climbed on, he quickly realized that it wasn't the most comfortable perch. The exoskeleton was slightly rough and uneven, and finding a stable position proved to be a challenge.

Gripping onto the Mantis's carapace, Bane settled himself as best he could. He gave the creature a reassuring pat on its side, his heart racing in anticipation. "Okay, let's give this a shot," he muttered to himself.

As the Mantis took off, the sudden surge of speed caught Bane off guard. The wind rushed past him with an exhilarating force, tousling his hair and making his clothes flap wildly. He clung tighter to the Mantis, his knuckles turning white as he held on.

The landscape below him became a blur as they soared through the skies. Bane's exhilaration mixed with a touch of unease as he realized just how high and fast they were flying. He could hardly believe that he was actually riding on the back of a creature through the open air, alone.

Despite the discomfort and the overwhelming sensory experience, Bane couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. He glanced down and marveled at the world below, the sprawling estate and surrounding landscape transforming into a breathtaking panorama from this vantage point.

As they flew closer to the estate, Bane spotted an open area where a group of people could be seen engaged in various training activities.

"Go there!" Bane shouted over the rushing wind, as he pointed toward the open space below. The Mantis seemed to understand his command and adjusted its trajectory accordingly. With precision, the creature lowered itself and gently touched down in the midst of the training area.

After what felt like both a fleeting moment and an eternity, the Mantis began its descent. Bane's heart raced as they approached the ground, but the creature's skillful landing eased his nerves. As soon as his feet touched solid ground, Bane released a breath he didn't even realize he had been holding.

His legs felt slightly wobbly after the thrilling flight. He turned to the Razorclaw Mantis with a grin, patting it once more as a gesture of thanks. "You're incredible," he said, his voice full of admiration.

Turning his attention to the training area, Bane saw that the other practitioners had stopped their activities to watch the impressive arrival of the Razorclaw Mantis and its rider. He felt a mix of pride and excitement, his heart pounding as he realized the attention they had garnered.

Removing the longbow from his back, he shifted his attention to the Razorclaw Mantis. "Training time," he declared with determination in his voice.