The late afternoon sun filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled patterns of light across the clearing. Nyx stood across from Bull, her silver eyes steady as they locked onto his. She shifted slightly, her curiosity evident as she finally gave a small nod.

“Alright, Bull,” she said, her voice calm but tinged with intrigue. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

Tiger, leaning casually against a tree nearby, smirked, his amber eyes gleaming with mischief. “Well, this is a first. The mighty Bull learning some manners,” he drawled, his voice thick with amusement.

Bull turned his head just enough to shoot Tiger a sharp look, his horns glinting faintly in the sunlight. “Quiet, Tiger. This is serious,” he rumbled, his tone low but firm. Turning his attention back to Nyx, he softened his voice. “I hope this suits your taste,” he said, his usual confidence tempered with sincerity.

As Bull raised a hand, a soft, luminous glow enveloped him, filling the air with a quiet hum of power. Nyx’s breath caught as the system’s familiar prompt appeared in front of her, the text glowing faintly:

New Skill

Blessings

Lunar Blessing

Increases magic power and restores mana under moonlight.

Level: S

Permission to receive skill?

YES / NO

Nyx’s lips quivered into a small smile. With a quick motion, she selected YES, and a radiant silver light enveloped her. It was warm, soothing, and familiar, like the gentle embrace of moonlight itself. The magic resonated deep within her, settling into her core with a comforting hum.

As the light faded, Nyx looked up at Bull, genuine gratitude shining in her eyes. “Thank you, Sir Bull,” she said, her voice steady but brimming with appreciation.

Bull’s usually stoic expression softened, but he held up a hand before she could say more. “Wait,” he said, his tone quiet but insistent. “There’s more.”

The air around him shimmered once again, and a second prompt materialized before her:

New Skill

Blessings

Infinity Sheathe

A mystical ability that allows the user to store weapons within their body using a pocket dimension.

Level: S

Permission to receive skill?

YES / NO

Nyx didn’t hesitate. She selected YES, and this time the energy that surrounded her was sharper, more dynamic. The power rippled through her, precise and electrifying, as though unlocking a hidden potential she hadn’t realized she possessed.

When the glow finally dissipated, Nyx couldn’t contain her excitement. With a bright grin, she leapt forward and wrapped her arms around Bull’s massive frame. “Thank you!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy.

Bull froze, his large form going rigid under the unexpected embrace. He blinked once, twice, before awkwardly patting her back with one massive hand. “You’re… welcome,” he said, his deep voice rumbling with faint embarrassment.

Tiger, who had been observing the exchange with a lazy grin, let out a low chuckle. “Now this is a sight. The Bull is getting hugged like a big, fluffy teddy bear.”

Bull shot him another glare but chose to ignore the jab.

Nyx stepped back, her cheeks still flushed with excitement. “Wait here,” she said, diving into Airy’s pocket dimension. Her hands rummaged through its contents until she pulled out two items: a finely crafted crown encrusted with vibrant gemstones and an intricately designed shield etched with glowing runes.

She held the treasures out to Bull with a bright smile. “I hope you like these.”

Bull’s eyes widened slightly as he took the crown and shield, his massive hands cradling them as though they might shatter. The crown sparkled in the sunlight, each gemstone catching the light like a tiny star. The shield, heavy and solid, bore ancient runes that pulsed faintly with latent magic.

For a moment, Bull said nothing. His gaze lingered on the crown before shifting to the shield, his expression unreadable. Finally, a small smile broke across his face—a rare, genuine expression of gratitude.

“These are… fitting,” he said, his deep voice soft. He inclined his head toward Nyx. “Thank you, little one.”

Tiger let out another laugh, his tail flicking lazily. “The mighty Bull, accepting gifts like a royal. Never thought I’d see the day.”

Bull ignored him this time, turning his full attention back to Nyx.

Bull placed the shield carefully on the ground beside him and adjusted the crown in his hands. “Now, about the skills I’ve given you,” he began, his tone shifting to one of instruction.

Nyx leaned forward slightly, her silver eyes bright with curiosity.

“First, the Lunar Blessing,” Bull said, his horns catching the light as he spoke. “The moon is a powerful ally. When you’re under its glow, your magic will surge, and your mana will replenish faster. But be aware—it’s tied to the moon itself. Heavy clouds, dense forests, or being underground will weaken its effect.”

Nyx nodded, her mind already imagining how she could use the skill during nighttime battles.

“And Infinity Sheathe,” Bull continued, his large hand resting on the shield. “This skill isn’t just a convenience—it’s a weapon. Store anything you want within your body’s pocket dimension. Big, small, it doesn’t matter. But use it wisely. Enemies won’t expect you to pull a blade out of thin air. That element of surprise is your greatest advantage.”

Nyx’s eyes widened as she considered the possibilities. “That’s incredible,” she murmured, her voice filled with awe.

Bull nodded, his expression proud. “You’ve proven yourself worthy of these skills. Don’t let me down.”

“I won’t,” Nyx said, her voice firm with resolve.

Tiger stretched dramatically, breaking the moment. “Are we done with the life lessons now? Because I’m starving.”

Nyx let out a laugh, her tension melting away. “Alright, Tiger. Let’s get you some food before you faint.”

As they parted ways, Nyx felt a deep sense of gratitude—not just for the new skills, but for the connection she was building with the constellations. The Bull, so stubborn and brash, had surprised her with his sincerity.

Her Dragonic Rise silver Wings shimmered through the fading sunlight as she took to the skies, a renewed determination surging through her. The forest, and perhaps even the world beyond, felt a little smaller, and her place within it a little stronger.

The late afternoon sunlight slanted through the entrance of Drac’s cave as Nyx landed lightly on the stone floor. She stretched her arms overhead, a wide grin still lingering on her face from her time with Bull.

Drac lay in his usual spot, his golden eyes narrowing slightly as he glanced at her. “You’re back later than usual,” he rumbled, his tail flicking against the stone.

Nyx walked up to him, dropping her bag by her feet. “I was talking to Bull at Tiger’s,” she said, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

Drac’s eyes sharpened, his head tilting slightly. “Bull? The Three-Horned Bull?”

“Yup!” Nyx chirped, flopping onto a nearby rock. “And you won’t believe it—he gave me two skills.”

Drac’s massive form shifted slightly, his claws scraping against the floor as he straightened. “He just… gave them to you?”

“Well,” Nyx began, her voice teasing, “he apologized first. You should’ve seen it. He was so serious, Drac. It was kind of weird.”

Drac huffed, his breath curling into faint smoke. “That does sound unusual for him. What skills?”

Nyx grinned, holding up her hand as if presenting something invisible. “Lunar Blessing and Infinity Sheathe. Both S-level!”

Drac’s eyes widened briefly, then narrowed again. “Those are strong skills,” he said slowly. “If he’s serious about giving you those, it means he sees your potential.”

“Or he just felt guilty,” Nyx joked, crossing her arms.

Drac snorted, though his gaze softened slightly. “Either way, it’s a good thing. But be cautious. Constellations don’t usually give something for nothing.”

Nyx nodded, her expression turning thoughtful. “I know. But I think he meant it this time. He even explained how to use them properly.”

Drac studied her for a moment, then gave a low rumble of approval. “Good. Just remember, not everyone will be so generous.”

Nyx leaned back against the rock, smiling. “I know, I know. You worry too much.”

Drac huffed again, but his lips twitched in the faintest hint of a smile.

That evening, the cave was filled with the soft crackle of a small fire as Nyx finished her meal. The warm glow danced across the stone walls, casting shifting shadows that flickered with life.

“Drac,” Nyx said, setting her plate aside, “have you ever had skills like these? Like Lunar Blessing or something similar?”

Drac, resting on his side, opened one eye lazily. “I’ve had many skills, but nothing like that. Lunar magic wasn’t something I ever relied on.”

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“What was your favorite skill, then?” Nyx asked, leaning forward eagerly.

Drac’s gaze turned distant, a flicker of nostalgia crossing his face. “Infernal Blaze,” he said after a moment. “A fire so strong it could burn through the toughest magic barriers. It’s what earned me my name on the battlefield.”

Nyx’s eyes widened. “That sounds amazing! Can you still use it?”

Drac chuckled, the deep sound echoing through the cave. “Not anymore. Those days are behind me. But you…” His gaze sharpened, focusing on her. “You’ll have your own legendary skill one day. Just remember to use it wisely.”

Nyx smiled, her cheeks warming under his praise. “I’ll make you proud. Promise.”

“You already do, little one,” Drac said, his voice softer now.

A flurry of soft wings and lively chatter signaled the Aetherlings’ return. Len led the way, his expression bright with excitement as he landed on Nyx’s shoulder.

“Nyx!” Len called, tugging lightly at her hair. “You won’t believe what we found!”

“What is it this time?” Nyx asked, smiling as the others fluttered into the cave.

“A hidden grove!” Suli exclaimed, twirling in the air. “It was full of glowing flowers and these strange vines that sparkled like stars.”

“And there was this weird rock that looked like a dragon’s claw!” Ryu added, zipping around her head. “I tried to pick it up, but it was stuck.”

“Because you’re too small,” Nabi teased, earning a glare from Ryu.

Nyx laughed, her silver eyes shining with amusement. “A glowing grove, star vines, and dragon rocks? Sounds like you had quite the adventure.”

“We did!” Guerim squeaked, holding up a tiny sprig of glowing moss. “And I brought this for you!”

Nyx took the moss carefully, her smile softening. “Thanks, Guerim. It’s beautiful.”

Len crossed his arms, his tone turning mock-serious. “Next time, you’re coming with us. No excuses.”

“Deal,” Nyx said, still smiling. “But you’ll have to keep up with me.”

The Aetherlings burst into laughter, their lighthearted banter filling the cave. Nyx joined in, her voice blending with theirs as they recounted their adventure in vivid detail.

As the laughter subsided, one by one, the Aetherlings drifted off to sleep, their tiny forms curling into the soft moss that lined their favorite spots in the cave. Nyx yawned, stretching her arms as she settled onto her makeshift bed of furs.

“Goodnight, Drac,” she murmured, her voice drowsy but content.

Drac didn’t respond immediately. His golden eyes watched her for a moment, his massive form shifting slightly as he rested his head on his claws.

“Goodnight, little one,” he said finally, his voice a low rumble.

As Nyx’s breathing slowed and softened, Drac remained awake, his gaze steady. The fire’s glow flickered over his scales as he kept his silent vigil, his eyes never straying far from her peaceful form.

The forest outside hummed with its usual life, but within the cave, all was still. Drac’s tail curled protectively, and his watchful presence filled the space with a quiet strength.

It would be a long night, but Drac didn’t mind. Keeping Nyx safe was all that mattered.

*************************************************

From that day onward, the Bull became a part of Nyx’s routine. She often visited his territory in the northwestern part of the Dark Forest, a region teeming with hidden treasures and valuable resources.

His domain was a sprawling expanse of jagged cliffs and shadowy valleys, where the sun’s light struggled to break through the dense canopy. Streams of glowing minerals ran through the rocks, and ancient carvings marked the passage of time. Each visit felt like stepping into a treasure trove waiting to be unraveled.

Sometimes Nyx ventured there alone, her silver wings gliding silently over the terrain as she scouted for treasures or hunted for dungeon entrances. Other times, her Aetherling companions joined her, their energy and laughter turning each trip into a lively adventure.

“Are we going the right way?” Nabi asked, fluttering ahead of Nyx as they walked along a narrow path.

“I think it’s this way,” Len interjected, perching on Nyx’s shoulder. His sharp eyes scanned the towering rock formations ahead. “There should be an opening near the base of that cliff.”

Ryu zipped past them, spinning in the air. “Last one there’s a rotten egg!”

Suli groaned, already darting after him. “Ryu, you’re impossible!”

Nyx laughed, jogging to keep up. Guerim, clutching a satchel nearly as big as himself, squeaked as he tried to keep pace. “Wait for me!” he called, his tiny legs working furiously.

When they reached the opening, a massive iron gate stood before them, half-hidden by moss and vines. Nyx ran her fingers over the ancient symbols carved into the metal. “This must be it,” she said, her silver eyes gleaming with excitement.

The Bull appeared behind them, his presence as commanding as ever. “You found it,” he rumbled, his deep voice echoing off the cliffs. “Not bad, little one.”

Nyx turned to him with a grin. “Of course we did. Did you doubt me?”

“Not at all,” he said with a faint smile. “But let’s see if you can handle what’s inside.”

After every successful raid, Nyx always made a point to share some of her spoils with the Bull. She’d emerge from a dungeon with her bag overflowing with loot, her silver hair streaked with dirt but her grin bright.

One evening, after a particularly challenging raid, she returned to the Bull’s domain with a rare gemstone the size of her palm. It shimmered with an inner light, casting a soft glow across her face.

“I found this in the Crystal Cavern,” she said, holding it out to him. “I thought you might like it.”

The Bull’s large hand closed around the stone, his golden eyes inspecting its intricate facets. “This is… remarkable,” he said, his voice quieter than usual.

Nyx shrugged, though her smile betrayed her pride. “It’s just a thank-you for the skills you’ve given me. I’ve gotten stronger because of you.”

He regarded her for a moment, then gave a slow nod. “You’ve done well, little one. Keep it up.”

Exploring the Bull’s territory became one of Nyx’s favorite pastimes. The Aetherlings loved the sprawling valleys and hidden treasures as much as she did, their laughter and teamwork making every trip memorable.

“What’s in this one?” Ryu asked one day, hovering over a chest Nyx had just pried open.

“Let’s find out,” Nyx replied, pulling out a gilded dagger encrusted with tiny emeralds. She held it up, inspecting the craftsmanship.

“That would look amazing on Tiger’s wall,” Suli commented, her voice tinged with admiration.

Nyx grinned. “Maybe. But I think the Bull deserves this one.”

Each adventure brought new treasures, stronger skills, and deeper bonds. Nyx often reflected on how much her life had changed since she first arrived in the forest. The Bull, once an annoyance, had become an important part of her world, someone she respected and cared for in her own way.

And just like that, six months passed in the blink of an eye.

The morning of her tenth birthday dawned quietly, the forest bathed in the soft glow of sunrise. Nyx stood at the edge of a cliff in the Drac’s territory, her silver eyes gazing out over the horizon. The breeze tousled her hair, and a small smile played on her lips.

Len fluttered beside her, his wings catching the early light in iridescent flashes. “Happy birthday, Nyx,” he said warmly, perching lightly on her shoulder.

“Thank you, Len,” she replied, her voice soft but brimming with emotion.

One by one, her companions arrived, filling the quiet moment with cheerful energy.

Suli twirled through the air, holding out a bouquet of glowing flowers, their luminescence casting a faint, magical glow across Nyx’s hands as she took them. “For you, Nyx,” Suli said, her voice musical.

“They’re beautiful,” Nyx said, tucking one of the flowers into her hair.

Next came Nabi, his tiny arms cradling a crystal pendant shaped like a star. “This reminded me of you,” he said shyly, placing it into Nyx’s open palm.

Nyx knelt to give Nabi a gentle hug. “Thank you. I love it.”

Guerim waddled forward, grinning as he held out a miniature dagger with an intricately carved hilt. “I made this for you!”

Nyx marveled at the craftsmanship, the edges of the blade glinting in the sunlight. “This is amazing, Guerim. You’re the best,” she said, making him beam with pride.

The Bull stepped forward next, towering over the group but moving with surprising gentleness. In his massive hand was a small pouch. “For you,” he said gruffly, holding it out to her.

Nyx opened the pouch carefully, revealing a silver ring set with a crescent moonstone that shimmered faintly as if holding its own light. Her breath caught as she slipped it onto her finger, the perfect fit making it feel destined for her.

“Thank you, Sir Bull,” she said, her voice thick with gratitude.

Tiger’s voice cut through the moment. “Alright, enough with the waterworks,” he teased, his tail flicking lazily. “Who’s ready for cake?”

Nyx laughed, shaking her head as the group erupted into playful chatter.

Not long after, the constellations began to arrive, each bringing their own unique presence to the celebration.

Fox strolled up first, his golden eyes glinting with amusement as he sniffed the air. “A birthday party, huh? Where’s my invite?”

Nyx smirked, crossing her arms. “You always seem to invite yourself, Fox.”

“And yet, I never hear any complaints,” he said with a wink, tossing her a small, intricately wrapped parcel.

Nyx unwrapped it to find a delicate gold charm shaped like a fox’s tail. “It’ll bring you luck,” Fox said, his voice softening for a moment. “Not that you need it, but it never hurts to have a little extra.”

“Thank you,” Nyx said, fastening the charm to her necklace.

Peacock arrived next, his radiant feathers shimmering in the sunlight. He carried a small, ornate box that he opened with a flourish, revealing an elegant hairpin adorned with tiny, glimmering jewels.

“For your hair,” Peacock said, gesturing grandly. “You’ve already got the beauty. This will only enhance it.”

Nyx blush faintly, carefully fastening the hairpin in place. “Thank you, Peacock. It’s perfect.”

Snake appeared quietly, his slithering form blending into the shadows until he emerged at Nyx’s side. Without a word, he placed a small vial in her hand, its contents a swirling, iridescent liquid.

“What is it?” Nyx asked, tilting the vial curiously.

“A gift,” Snake said simply. “A potion for emergencies. Use it wisely.”

Nyx nodded solemnly, tucking the vial safely into her bag. “Thank you, Snake.”

Finally, Griff ambled in, his wings dragging slightly against the ground as he gave Nyx a sleepy smile. “Happy birthday, kid,” he said, holding out a polished stone etched with glowing runes.

Nyx turned it over in her hands, the faint hum of magic making her smile. “What does it do?”

Griff shrugged. “Not much. But it’ll glow brighter if you’re in trouble. Consider it a warning light.”

“Thanks, Griff,” Nyx said, giving him a hug, which he lazily returned.

As the group gathered around the cake Tiger had (somehow) managed to procure, Nyx felt a warmth spread through her chest. Each constellation, each Aetherling, each friend had come together to celebrate her—not because they had to, but because they wanted to.

The cake itself was a modest creation, adorned with colorful berries and drizzled with honey. Nyx laughed as Ryu tried to snatch a piece early, earning a scolding from Suli.

“Patience, Ryu!” Suli scolded, crossing her tiny arms.

Ryu rolled his eyes but grinned. “Fine, but I get the first slice!”

“Not if I get there first,” Nabi teased, darting toward the cake.

Drac sat near the back of the cave, his massive form partially illuminated by the fire. His ruby red eyes watched Nyx with a steady intensity, a rare softness in his gaze.

The warm glow of the firelight filled Drac’s cave as the festivities continued. The Aetherlings flitted about, their tiny voices filling the space with cheerful chatter, while the constellations lounged comfortably in various corners, each adding their unique energy to the celebration.

Nyx, surrounded by gifts and laughter, suddenly noticed him observing her from his spot. She stood, brushing off her hands, and approached him with a wide grin.

“Drac! You’ve been so quiet,” she teased, tilting her head. “Do you have something planned, or are you just enjoying the show?”

Drac rumbled softly, the sound low and warm. “Watching is enough for me,” he said, his voice steady. “But I do have something for you.”

Nyx’s eyes brightened with curiosity as Drac lifted a claw. Resting on the smooth surface was a small, intricately carved box. The polished wood gleamed faintly in the firelight, its edges adorned with delicate etchings of dragon scales.

“For you,” Drac said simply, lowering the box toward her.

Nyx took it carefully, her fingers brushing over the cool surface as she opened it. Inside lay a pair of gleaming silver earrings shaped like dragon wings. The crystals embedded in the wings pulsed faintly, as if alive with magic.

Her breath caught, her voice soft with awe. “They’re beautiful…” she whispered, lifting one of the earrings to inspect it more closely.

“They’re enchanted,” Drac explained, his tone calm but laced with pride. “They’ll amplify your aura when you wear them. Use them wisely.”

Nyx nodded, her silver eyes shimmering with emotion as she slipped the earrings on. The faint glow of the crystals seemed to complement her already radiant presence. “I will. Thank you, Drac.”

For a moment, Drac said nothing, his golden eyes fixed on her. Then, with a low rumble, he spoke again, his voice softer than before. “You’ve grown, little one. I’m proud of you.”

Nyx blinked, her chest tightening at his words. “Thank you,” she said again, her voice quieter now, filled with genuine gratitude.

Drac shifted slightly, his tail curling protectively along the cave’s edge. “Go on,” he said, his tone gruff once more. “Enjoy your day. This is your time.”

Nyx smiled, her heart full as she rejoined her companions. But even as the laughter and chatter of the celebration surrounded her, she felt the steady warmth of Drac’s presence—a reminder of the family she had found in the Dark Forest.

The group burst into laughter, the sound echoing across the cliffs as the celebration continued.

Later that evening, Nyx stood again at the edge of the cliff, her new gifts glinting faintly in the moonlight. Len perched quietly on her shoulder, his tiny presence steady and comforting.

“Did you enjoy your day?” he asked, his voice soft.

Nyx nodded, her silver eyes fixed on the horizon. “It was perfect,” she said. “I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Behind her, Drac sat silently, his massive form partially hidden in the shadows. His ruby red eyes reflected the moonlight as he watched over her, his presence steady and unyielding.

The forest stretched out before her, vast and full of mysteries she had yet to uncover. But for now, she felt at peace. She had a family, a purpose, and a place to grow.

As the stars began to dot the sky, she smiled. The past ten years had been a journey, but the next ten? They would be hers to shape.