The Shattered Constellations Between Stars

Nyx took a deep breath, steadying herself. The air was thick with the scent of earth and foliage, the walls of the dungeon buzzing with latent energy. The Queen Ant towered over her, a massive creature with gleaming emerald exoskeleton and mandibles that could slice through stone. Nyx locked eyes on the faintly pulsing core deep within the Queen’s chest and charged forward, daggers ready.

The Queen Ant lunged, its massive jaws crashing down with a force that shook the ground where Nyx had stood just a second earlier. She dodged nimbly, using her daggers to parry its strikes with a grace that belied her young age. Each swipe of her Twilight Fangs cut through the air with a whispering sound, the obsidian blades glowing faintly as they met the Queen’s hardened shell.

“Stay focused, Nyx!” The Tiger’s voice echoed from behind, his tone both a warning and encouragement.

The battle was fierce. The Queen’s sheer size and strength made it a daunting opponent. If she got hurt, her Restoration Mastery would heal her up, sealing any minor wounds within moments. Still, each slash, each thrust of her blade was calculated and precise. The Queen’s green ichor splattered around her as Nyx danced away from another bone-crushing blow.

Nyx remained calm, focusing on the rhythmic beating of the Queen’s core. She moved methodically, striking at the vulnerable spots and using her Lightning Mastery to stun the creature whenever it seemed to get too close. Each time the Queen attacked, Nyx was ready, her movements a blur of speed and agility that left the creature confused and reeling.

“She’s really keeping up!” Guerim whispered to the others, eyes wide with admiration.

“She’s not just keeping up—she’s winning,” Ryu murmured back, his gaze fixed on the fight.

“Go, Nyx!” Suli cheered softly, her wings fluttering with excitement.

Finally, after what felt like hours of relentless back-and-forth, Nyx saw her chance. She tightened her grip on the daggers, feeling the familiar thrum of energy flow through her. With a powerful leap, she closed the distance, evading the Queen’s desperate swipe and delivering a decisive blow. The blades cut through the air with a brilliant flash, shattering the core with a single, precise strike.

The Queen Ant let out a shrill, keening wail before its body began to dissolve, collapsing into a pool of viscous green ichor. Nyx landed softly, panting slightly but triumphant.

“You did it!” Nabi cried, fluttering around in an excited circle.

A glowing chest materialized where the Queen had fallen, radiating a soft, golden light. Nyx approached it cautiously, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and disbelief. She opened the chest slowly, its hinges creaking softly. Inside were two items that shimmered with an almost otherworldly glow.

“Wow…” Nyx breathed, her eyes wide.

“Nest-Core Gem and an Ant Resin Shield.” Tiger said.

The Nest-Core Gem was a luminous gemstone formed at the heart of the hive, pulsing with latent magic. The Ant Resin Shield, on the other hand, looked like it was crafted from solidified ant resin. It was incredibly durable, and Nyx could feel the magic embedded within its structure.

“Looks like you’ve earned your treasure,” the Tiger rumbled, pride evident in his deep voice. His eyes gleamed as he observed the young girl standing before him, daggers still in hand, face flushed with victory.

Nyx’s face broke into a radiant smile, her joy practically lighting up the dim cavern. “We did it. We actually did it!” She turned to the Aetherlings, who were all grinning and nodding enthusiastically.

“Not just any treasure either—those are some high-quality items,” Len said, fluttering closer to get a better look at the gleaming gem and shield.

“You should be proud,” Ryu added. “You handled that like a real pro.”

The Tiger nodded approvingly. “Indeed. Your movements were fluid, and you kept your composure even when it got tough.”

Nyx beamed at their praise, clutching the treasures to her chest. She felt a warmth spreading through her—a sense of accomplishment that made every bruise, every ache worth it.

They left the dungeon, and just like before, it turned a dull grey, the sign that it was no longer active. The thrill of victory and the cool evening air felt wonderful against her skin. As they stood outside the cave, the Tiger once again congratulated her, his deep voice resonating with genuine pride.

“Well done, Nyx,” he said softly, placing a paw gently on her head. “You’re becoming quite the skilled hunter.”

“Thank you, Tiger,” Nyx replied, her voice full of emotion. “I couldn’t have done it without everyone’s help.”

He gave a slight nod and stepped back. “Now go tell Drac of your success. He’ll want to hear every detail.”

She nodded eagerly. With a final wave to the Tiger, she and the Aetherlings teleported back to Drac’s cave, her heart still racing with the excitement of the day.

At Drac’s Cave

“Drac, Drac! I did it!” Nyx exclaimed as soon as they arrived, practically bouncing on her feet.

Drac looked down at her, his one good eye narrowing slightly. “You defeated the Queen Ant?” His voice was low, almost dangerous, but Nyx could hear the faint undertone of approval.

She nodded vigorously. “Yes! It was tough, but I used everything you taught me—both the Claw of Eternal and the Lightning Mastery. And look what I got!” She pulled out the Nest-Core Gem and Ant Resin Shield, holding them up for him to see.

Drac’s gaze flickered over the items, his expression inscrutable. “And did you get hurt?”

“A few scratches,” she admitted, then quickly added, “but my Restoration Mastery took care of them! I’m fine, really.”

Drac was silent for a moment, then nodded slowly. “Good. But remember, just because you can heal doesn’t mean you should be reckless.” His voice was stern, but Nyx caught the slight softening of his features.

“I know,” she said, smiling up at him. “I’ll be more careful next time.”

“See that you are,” he rumbled. Then, after a pause, his gaze softened just a fraction. “You did well, Nyx. I’m proud of you.”

Nyx’s heart soared at his words. “Thank you, Drac!”

“Go rest now,” he said, his voice gentler. “You’ve earned it.”

Nyx nodded, exhaustion starting to creep in now that the adrenaline was wearing off. She took one last look at the treasures she’d earned, a small smile playing on her lips. Today was a good day.

With a happy sigh, she put the items away in Airy and headed off to bed, feeling more accomplished than ever.

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

EXP: +2

EXP: +2

EXP: +2

EXP: 155 / ??

During the next few months, Nyx’s growth was nothing short of remarkable.

The Ant Dungeons, however, only rewarded her with a small amount of EXP, two points each per ants and some didn’t give her any at all. The dungeon had been dormant in the forest long before the constellations fell, which meant its challenges were far too easy to offer her much. Nevertheless, Nyx’s determination never faltered—she was on a mission to raid every dungeon she could find.

Although she was getting stronger with each raid, Drac made sure she didn’t push herself too hard. She was still so young, and the Dragon of Wrath took it upon himself to teach her more than just combat. He educated her on the world beyond their forest—the different constellations, the various races, and the myriad of kingdoms. He wanted her to be prepared for when she eventually left the safety of the forest.

Sometimes, they’d explore his vast territory together, venturing into parts unknown. He had never been one for sightseeing, but with Nyx’s boundless curiosity guiding them, Drac found a new appreciation for the land he ruled. On some days, he would take her on flights across the sky, soaring over lush canopies, towering mountains, and shimmering lakes. Nyx’s eyes would light up at each breathtaking view, her laughter ringing through the air as they flew.

And on other days, she would visit the Silverheart Tree to be with Len and the other Aetherlings. Together, they would explore different territories within the forest, now that the constellations were on much better terms. Each adventure felt like a new chapter in Nyx’s life, one she was eager to experience with her closest companions.

One day, during one of their visits, Len decided to share a secret with Nyx.

“Did you know,” he began, his voice soft as they sat by the base of the Silverheart Tree, “I’m not exactly like the other Aetherlings?”

Nyx blinked up at him, her head tilted in curiosity. “What do you mean?”

Len smiled gently, a distant look in his eyes. “I’m what’s known as a Lunarae, a Moonlit Spirit. We’re beings of ancient knowledge, but… I’m the last of my kind.”

Nyx’s heart tightened. “The last…? What happened?”

“The constellation war… when they first fell,” Len explained slowly, choosing his words carefully. “Many of us were caught in the crossfire. It nearly wiped us all out. I survived because the Aetherlings found me and took me in.” He glanced down at her, a soft smile on his lips. “And then I met you.”

Tears welled in Nyx’s eyes as she reached out to hold his tiny hand. “I’m so sorry, Len. I didn’t know…”

“It’s alright,” he reassured her, squeezing her hand gently. “I have a family now, with you and the Aetherlings.”

In an effort to cheer her up, Len revealed one of his special skills, Miracle Infusion. He couldn’t gift it to her like the constellations could with their skills, but he could teach her how to make healing potions using his knowledge.

“Potions are useful even if you have restoration skills,” Len explained, showing her a delicate blue flower called Moonshade Blossom. “Your skills might only work on yourself, but these potions? They can heal anyone.”

Nyx listened with rapt attention, absorbing everything he said. Together, they gathered herbs and magical components from around the forest, and Len walked her through the basics:

1.Gather Ingredients: Collect herbs, roots, or magical components with healing properties (e.g., Moonshade Blossom for calming, Silverleaf for tissue repair).

2.Prepare Ingredients: Grind, crush, or extract the essence of the ingredients, often using a mortar and pestle to release their natural properties.

3.Brew the Potion: Combine the prepared ingredients with a base liquid, usually water. Simmer or boil to blend the properties together.

4.Enhance with Magic (Optional): Channel magic or use a catalyst to amplify the potion’s healing effects.

5.Filter and Bottle: Strain the mixture to remove solid particles, and store it in a sealed vial for use.

Despite not having the Miracle Infusion skill herself, Nyx practiced diligently, mastering the art of potion-making with time. She felt a sense of fulfillment knowing she could help others if they ever got hurt.

With Len’s help, she managed to gather all the materials necessary to upgrade Airy: one sword

one shield

One hundred magic stones from the dungeons

one hundred healing potions.

Yet, just like with Ori, nothing seemed to happen immediately. Nyx didn’t mind; she knew patience was key.

Her dungeon raids expanded to other territories, collecting treasures and gaining more experience with each raid. Both Slime and Ant Dungeons fell before her, their magic stones piling up as proof of her strength and determination.

And just like that, Nyx turned seven years old.

They held a small celebration for her. But this time, instead of receiving gifts, Nyx decided to give something to each of her friends and family to show her appreciation.

She presented Drac with a shield she had found, its surface engraved with intricate dragon scales.

For the Tiger, she offered a dagger forged from a rare ore found deep within a dungeon, its edge glinting with magic.

To Griff, she gave a beautiful magic necklace, infused with her own energy.

The Snake received a sword as black as night, with a gleaming emerald set in its hilt.

For the Peacock, Nyx gifted a delicate bracelet she had crafted, woven with threads of silver and gold.

Even Len, Ryu, Nabi, Guerim, and Suli received necklaces—though far too big for them, they wore them with pride.

The constellations and Aetherlings all thanked her sincerely, touched by her thoughtfulness. Nyx’s smile shone brighter than ever as she saw the happiness in their eyes. Little did she know, she had brought them all closer together, healing rifts that had once seemed irreparable.

And somewhere deep down, each of them knew that this small girl, growing stronger and brighter with each passing day, would one day change everything.

But for now, they simply celebrated her presence, cherishing each moment they shared.

Nyx’s journey was only beginning, and she had an entire forest of friends and family to support her every step of the way.