The rooftop of their hideout became Lee Geon's training ground. The sun had barely risen, casting golden light over the city below. Capricon stood at the edge, his wings spread wide, catching the soft morning breeze.
"Flying isn't about power, Lee," Capricon began, his voice calm yet firm. "It's about control and trust—trusting yourself, trusting the air, and trusting your instincts."
Lee wiped sweat from his brow, still trying to wrap his head around the lesson. "What if I don't have wings?"
Capricon smirked. "You don't need wings to fly. You've got your powers, and they're more than enough. I'm just here to guide you."
With a swift motion, Capricon leapt into the air, his wings propelling him upward. He hovered effortlessly, a living embodiment of freedom. "The first step is simple," he called down. "Let go of your fear."
Lee's first attempts were anything but graceful. He stumbled, nearly face-planted, and managed to lift himself off the ground for mere seconds before crashing back down.
"Stop fighting it!" Capricon urged from above. "You're overthinking. Feel the power within you—let it flow naturally."
Kuran watched from the sidelines, arms crossed, occasionally muttering, "This is going to take a while."
Lee gritted his teeth, determination burning in his eyes. He focused, digging deep into the strange energy coursing through him. He closed his eyes, visualizing the wind as Capricon had described, and jumped.
This time, he didn't fall.
The wind roared past his ears as he soared upward, exhilaration washing over him. He wasn't quite steady yet, but he was flying—really flying. Capricon joined him in the air, his wings effortlessly guiding him beside Lee.
"Not bad for your first time," Capricon said with a grin. "But let's see if you can keep up."
What followed was a whirlwind of twists, turns, and dives. Capricon pushed Lee to test his limits, guiding him with calls of encouragement and the occasional tease. By the time they landed, Lee's legs felt like jelly, but he couldn't stop smiling.
"That," Lee said, catching his breath, "was incredible."
Capricon chuckled. "You're a natural. But remember, flying isn't just about fun. It's a tool—a lifeline. Use it wisely."
As night fell, Lee decided to test his newfound skill on his own. He leapt from the rooftop and soared above the city, reveling in the freedom of the skies. For a moment, he felt untouchable, as though the chaos of the world below couldn't reach him.
But the feeling didn't last.
A shadow moved in the corner of his vision, faster than he could track. Lee spun around mid-air, his heart racing. Hovering a few feet away was a man—if he could be called that. His skin was a sickly gray, his eyes glowed red, and sharp, jagged horns curved from his forehead.
"Enjoying yourself, little bird?" the being asked, his voice a sinister growl.
"Who are you?" Lee demanded, his voice steady despite the chill running down his spine.
The creature grinned, revealing rows of sharp teeth. "An Alternate. You've strayed too far from your nest, and now you're mine."
The Alternate lunged, moving with terrifying speed. Lee barely managed to dodge, his newfound flight abilities keeping him just out of reach. But the demon-like being was relentless, twisting through the air with an unnatural grace.
Lee's mind raced. He wasn't ready for this—he had no plan, no idea how to fight in mid-air. All he could do was keep moving, dodging the Alternate's deadly swipes.
"You can't run forever!" the Alternate snarled, slashing toward him again.
A flash of silver cut through the darkness, forcing the Alternate to recoil. Capricon swooped in, his wings glowing faintly as he brandished his sword.
"Stay away from him," Capricon said coldly, positioning himself between Lee and the creature.
The Alternate sneered. "Another Zodiac. This just got interesting."
"Lee," Capricon called over his shoulder, his tone serious. "Get back to the rooftop. Now."
Lee hesitated but nodded, retreating as Capricon clashed with the Alternate. The sound of steel meeting claws echoed through the air as Lee flew back to safety.
When Capricon returned, his expression was grim.
"What was that thing?" Lee asked, still shaken.
"An Alternate," Capricon said. "They're beings that feed on humans—monsters born of chaos. They've been growing bolder lately, and it looks like they've taken an interest in you."
Lee clenched his fists. "Why me?"
"Because you're different," Capricon replied. "And different always draws attention. But don't worry—we'll handle this. Together."
As they stood under the moonlit sky, Lee realized that learning to fly was only the beginning. If he was going to survive, he would have to face monsters like the Alternate—and the even greater threats waiting in the shadows.