Rodensky's hand closed around the artifact, and the system chimed once more.
**"Legacy Claimed: The challengers have earned the following rewards—
1. Four Skill Improvement Scrolls
2. Evernight Supply Box containing advanced equipment and rare materials
3. Permanent access to the Hatchling of Evernight ."**
A faint light enveloped them, and the artifact dissolved, leaving behind a box engraved with intricate runes. The trio exchanged glances before carefully opening it. Inside were four gleaming scrolls, radiating an aura of power, and a collection of shimmering materials that seemed almost alive with energy.
"Skill improvement scrolls," Izabella said, marveling at the magical items. "These are incredibly rare. They can level up any skill instantly."
Rodensky nodded thoughtfully. "We'll need to use these wisely. They're too valuable to waste."
He took one of the scrolls and activated it, the parchment disintegrating into golden particles that flowed into him. His Eye of Truth skill glowed momentarily, and he felt a sharp clarity as its power increased.
"That should give us an edge," he said, handing one scroll to Emmanuel and another to Izabella. "These are for you two. The last one… I'll hold onto it for emergencies."
Emmanuel smirked. "I'm not complaining. Let's see how much better I can get." He activated his scroll, and his combat aura pulsed brightly as his Blazing Strikes skill improved.
Izabella hesitated for a moment, then nodded gratefully. "Thank you. I'll use this to strengthen my divine aura. We'll need all the help we can get."
With the scrolls distributed, Rodensky turned his attention to the materials in the box. Among them was a radiant shard that seemed to hum with life, along with several rare essences. These were the keys to hatching the egg he had carried since leaving the forest.
---
The Hatching of the Pups' Egg
Rodensky placed the egg in the center of the room and arranged the materials around it as instructed by the system. The air grew tense with anticipation as the essences began to glow, their light converging on the egg.
The egg shimmered, its crystalline shell cracking as soft whimpers echoed from within. Finally, the shell shattered, revealing a small, glowing creature.
It was a hatchling pup, its fur a blend of starlight silver and deep black, with faint celestial markings running down its sleek body. Its eyes sparkled like tiny galaxies, and it radiated a sense of both innocence and immense potential.
The system chimed again:
"Congratulations! Hatchling Pups successfully bonded. This creature has immense potential and three evolution paths depending on how it is raised."
Rodensky knelt, extending a hand toward the pup. It tilted its head curiously before nuzzling into his palm, its warmth spreading through him.
"I'll call you Arcturus," Rodensky said softly, a rare smile crossing his face.
Emmanuel leaned in, grinning. "You've got a knack for picking up rare companions, don't you?"
Izabella smiled warmly. "It's beautiful… and powerful. With the right care, it could become a formidable ally."
Arcturus barked softly, its crystalline wings fluttering as it hopped around Rodensky's feet. The bond was instantaneous, and Rodensky felt a deep connection with the hatchling.
---
Aftermath of Victory
As the trio gathered their spoils and prepared to leave the ruin, they couldn't help but reflect on how far they had come. The Evernight Citadel had tested them in ways they never anticipated, but they emerged stronger, more united, and with a powerful new ally.
Izabella, now fully understanding the strength of Rodensky and Emmanuel, felt a growing sense of respect and perhaps something more for her companions.
"The next challenge will only be harder," she said, her voice steady. "But with what we've gained here, we're ready for whatever comes next."
Rodensky nodded, his eyes glancing down at Arcturus, who yawned and curled up at his feet. "We're just getting started."