While he was lost in thought, he heard the faint sound of a bird.
"Chirp..."
Ethan glanced up to see a bird as if sensing his emotions, perching delicately beside him. Its presence seemed otherworldly, as though it had emerged from a tale of magic and legends.
Curious, Ethan activated his Appraisal Skill.
[ Appraisal Result: ]
Name: Unnamed
Species: Sylphorwing
Class: Elemental Aviary
Age: 100 years (immature for its kind)
Condition: Thriving, yet bound by a cursed enchantment
Magical Affinity: Wind and Illusion
Rarity: Extremely Rare — One of only two known in the kingdom
[ System Notification: ]
Host, if you wish to communicate with this creature, you must tame it. Taming will unlock telepathic communication.
"Chirp..."
Ethan tilted his head at the bird. "Do you want to travel with me?" he asked with curiosity.
The bird tilted its head in return, its golden eyes shining as though it understood. "Chriip."
"Alright," Ethan said. "System, how do I tame it?"
[ Host, place your hand on the creature's head and transfer a portion of your mana into it. If the creature accepts, the bond will form. ]
Following the instructions, Ethan gently placed his hand on the bird's soft, luminous feathers. As he transferred his mana, the bird closed its eyes, glowing softly in response.
[ Ding .]
[You have acquired the skill Beast Taming.]
[You have successfully tamed your first beast companion: Sylphorwing.]
[You have acquired the skill Telepathy.]
[You have acquired the skill Beast Summoning.]
[You have learned Illusion Magic.]
[You have acquired the skill Sense Share.]
Ethan smiled as the bird hopped closer. "Let's give you a name. How about... Blueyi?"
The Sylphorwing ruffled its feathers, letting out a sharp chirp in protest.
"Not a fan, huh?" Ethan chuckled. "Okay, what about... Zephyros?"
"Chirp, chirp." The bird's eyes gleamed, and it flapped its wings in disagreement.
Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Wait... Are you a girl?"
The Sylphorwing chirped softly in confirmation.
"Alright then... How about Calyra? It's a name that feels soft yet powerful, like the wind and natural beauty itself."
The Sylphorwing, now named Calyra, let out a delighted chirp, her body glowing faintly in response to the bestowed name.
[ You have bestowed a name upon your companion. You have acquired the skill Name Bestow. ]
While Ethan was reading the notifications, he heard footsteps behind him. Turning, he saw Iris approaching.
"Sir Ethan, what are you doing here?" she asked as she walked closer.
"Nothing much. Just enjoying the view," Ethan replied nonchalantly.
As Iris's eyes landed on Calyra, she froze in astonishment. The bird was unlike anything she'd ever seen—a vision of beauty and majesty. Its shimmering feathers glowed with silver, sapphire, and emerald hues, and its golden eyes seemed to hold untold secrets.
"Is that... a Sylphorwing?" Iris's voice was filled with disbelief. "How did you tame it? There are only two Sylphorwings in the entire kingdom! And they're considered noble, sacred creatures."
Ethan smirked mischievously. "Well, she thought I was the most handsome guy she'd ever seen in your kingdom and decided to join me."
Iris flushed slightly, her eyes darting to the side. "...Yes, you're the most handsome boy I've ever met," she muttered softly.
"What was that?" Ethan asked, not catching her words.
"Nothing!" Iris said quickly, brushing her hair behind her ear. "Anyway, we should get going. We're continuing our journey to the kingdom."
Ethan glanced at Calyra, who perched confidently on his shoulder. He smiled to himself, feeling more prepared than ever for the adventures ahead.