Reaching the edge of the mountain peak, where jagged stone steps spiraled downward like a path carved by ancient titans, Alex paused and glanced at Nyxara. The cold wind swept through his hair, carrying with it the scent of distant trees and wild magic.
Nyxara met his gaze, her feline eyes narrowing slightly. With a sharp nod, she leapt from his shoulder. Mid-air, her body began to shift—bones elongating, muscle expanding, fur rippling like wind across water.
By the time she landed, the petite tigress had transformed into her true, awe-inspiring form: a massive, sleek predator with black and silver stripes that shimmered under the sun like runes of storm-forged steel.
Alex landed on her back without hesitation, his body moving in perfect sync with hers.
Aetheria had graciously offered one of her own beasts to carry them down the treacherous descent—but Alex and Nyxara had declined. As they still didn't trust her enough, especially since they showed her the contract.
