One Week Later
It had been a week since Nyx received Draconic’s Rise, and she’d been buzzing with excitement ever since. Just as she always did when something big happened, she visited each constellation to share her news. The thrill of her new skill pulsed through her as she demonstrated her ability to float, her form encased in a faint aura that mimicked the majestic wings of a dragon.
Tiger’s Territory
Nyx hovered a few inches above the ground as she entered Tiger’s territory, feeling the air shift with his intense gaze. He watched her approach with a smirk, one eyebrow raised.
“So, little cub,” Tiger drawled, crossing his arms, “you think floating makes you stronger?”
Nyx flashed a grin, hovering a bit higher to show off. “It’s more than just floating, Tiger. Drac says it’s ‘Draconic’s Rise,’ and it’s pretty impressive.”
Tiger let out a low chuckle, his eyes gleaming with challenge. “Just don’t get too used to all that power—there’s always more to learn.”
Snake’s Domain
The soft rustle of leaves underfoot and the faint warmth of sunlight filtered through the trees as Nyx entered Snake’s domain. She floated just above the ground, her aura shimmering softly as she approached him. The Snake lifted his head, his dark eyes observing her carefully.
“Draconic’s Rise, hmm?” he said, his voice smooth and low. “A fitting skill for you. But don’t let it fill you with overconfidence.”
Nyx laughed, twirling mid-air. “I won’t, Snake! But it does feel amazing to be able to float.”
Snake’s head tilted, and the faintest hint of a smile appeared in his gaze. “Enjoy it. Just remember, power is a tool—it’s what you do with it that matters.”
Griff’s Lair
Griff lay sprawled out as usual, his eyes half-closed, though one of them cracked open as Nyx floated into his lair. He watched her demonstration with an amused smile, his relaxed demeanor never wavering.
“You’re picking up some flashy moves, kid,” he drawled, stretching lazily. “You’re really starting to shine.”
Nyx landed lightly, laughing. “Thanks, Griff! It took some practice, but it feels natural now.”
Griff chuckled, his voice low and content. “Just don’t let it go to your head. The forest is full of surprises.”
Peacock’s Territory
The soft fragrance of flowers filled the air as Nyx floated into Peacock’s domain, the colors around her vibrant against the pale glow of her aura. Peacock’s eyes lit up as she demonstrated her new skill, and he clapped his hands together, delighted.
“Oh, splendid, Nyx!” he said, his voice full of admiration. “You’re practically gliding! This new skill suits you.”
Nyx grinned, adding a playful twirl as she hovered. “Thank you, Peacock! Now I can finally move with a bit more flair.”
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Peacock laughed, bowing with theatrical elegance. “Why, you’re a vision, my dear. The forest will have to take notice now.”
Crossing Paths with Fox
Nyx spotted Fox near a berry bush, his usual snack at hand. His eyes widened a fraction as she floated closer, her faint aura shimmering.
“Well, look at you, floating around like you own the place,” he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Trying to impress me?”
Nyx grinned, lifting herself a bit higher. “Maybe. But mostly, I’m just excited to share it with everyone!”
Fox chuckled, nodding approvingly. “Glad to see you’re enjoying it. Just keep that fire, and you’ll go far.”
Each constellation responded with their own mix of surprise and pride, each reaction different but genuine. With every visit, Nyx felt her excitement growing. She couldn’t wait to use her skill in her race with Len and the Aetherlings. It would be a chance to test herself, to see what she was capable of with her friends by her side. And this time, she would be ready, her new skill lifting her higher than ever.
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It was finally the day of the race. Excitement buzzed in the air as Nyx and her friends lined up at the starting point, each one stretching or warming up in their own way. The cool breeze swept up from the south, carrying the scent of earth and greenery as they stood on the same slope, overlooking the familiar mountain in the distance. This time, though, the stakes felt higher. They were all stronger, faster—and Nyx was determined to give it her all.
Ryu, hands proudly perched on his hips, called out the rules with a smirk. “Same as last time! First to the top, find a treasure, and get back down in one piece wins!”
“We’re in!” the others replied, their voices ringing with excitement. This time, they had an extra spectator—Fox, perched nearby with a mouthful of snacks that Nyx had brought him, cheering each of them on in his own mischievous way.
Fox waved his snack toward them, grinning. “Good luck! Try not to fall off the mountain, yeah?”
Suli looked over, her face curious. “So, what’s the prize this time?”
Ryu, eyes gleaming with mischief, tapped his chin in thought. “Whoever wins… Nyx has to do anything they ask for a week.”
Nyx’s eyes widened, her head whipping toward Ryu. “What?! No way!” she protested, throwing her arms up in exasperation.
Her friends erupted in laughter, Fox nearly choking on his snack as he joined in. “Don’t worry, Nyx,” Ryu teased, dodging as she playfully lunged at him. “You can handle it!”
Nyx chased him in circles, determined to get back at him while the others laughed. Fox grinned and called out, “How about this? Whoever wins gets to ride on my back for a week.” He settled back, munching contentedly, clearly enjoying the show.
The laughter died down as everyone considered the prize. “Now that’s a reward!” Suli said, eyes bright with excitement. They all agreed, finally lining up to start the race, their faces filled with anticipation. Fox, serving as the official starter, raised a hand.
“Alright, racers,” he called out, his voice booming, “on your marks… get set… GO!”
With the sound of Fox’s call, they were off. Nyx took off running, her heart racing with exhilaration as her friends soared into the sky, their wings catching the light as they sped forward. The breeze was refreshing, cool against her skin, and the thrill of the race filled her with renewed determination. Not wanting to be left behind, she activated Draconic’s Rise, feeling the gentle lift of her aura as it carried her forward.
Nyx felt herself lagging behind as her friends soared ahead, their wings catching the sunlight. Determined to close the gap, an idea sparked in her mind. She took a deep breath, feeling the aura of Draconic’s Rise lifting her lightly above the ground. “Alright,” she whispered to herself, “let’s combine some skills and pick up the pace.”
Focusing, she activated Draconic’s Rise, hovering just enough to avoid obstacles and keep her momentum steady. Then, without hesitating, she added Teleportation, propelling herself forward in short, controlled bursts. As she flickered between points, she seamlessly transitioned back into her levitation, maintaining her speed and agility.
With each teleport, she grew bolder, chaining the skills together—Draconic’s Rise to float and reposition, Teleportation to cover ground. The sensation was exhilarating, almost as if she were gliding on invisible dragon winds. She couldn’t help but smile as she gained ground, her body light and her spirit soaring.
As she gained ground, Nyx felt the thrill of the wind against her face, her heart pounding with excitement. She glanced up to see her friends soaring ahead, each one focused but full of energy.
“This is going to be epic!” Ryu called out, his voice carrying back to her as they reached the base of the mountain. Its steep cliffs loomed above them, like the face of a massive stone guardian challenging them to ascend.
Undeterred, Nyx pressed on, using her skills to propel herself up the mountain’s rocky slopes. Each leap and teleportation brought her closer to her goal, her confidence growing with every step. She caught glimpses of her friends racing ahead, their forms darting in and out of sight as they pushed themselves to the limit. But she felt her own strength growing, her smile widening as she approached the top.
With only a few feet left, Nyx felt a surge of joy and relief. The thrill of victory washed over her as she closed her eyes, savoring the moment. She imagined herself standing on the peak, triumphant, with her friends cheering her on. She had done it—she had won.
When she opened her eyes, however, her heart sank. Her friends were already there, smiling, laughing, and holding the treasure high. She had reached the top, but she wasn’t the first.
Nyx let out a small laugh, shaking her head as she joined them, her chest still heaving from the climb. Despite the loss, she couldn’t help feeling proud. She’d given it her all, and even though she hadn’t won, she had grown stronger than ever before.
Though the race hadn’t ended as she’d hoped, Nyx couldn’t deny the sense of accomplishment that filled her. She had pushed herself, tested her limits, and learned more about her own strength. And as they made their way back down, laughing and recounting the moments that had made the race unforgettable, Nyx knew she was more than ready for the challenges ahead.