The warm golden light of dawn streamed through the towering trees of the Star Dou Forest, where spirits roamed freely, seeking to evolve and strengthen themselves. Among the vibrant vegetation and hidden creatures, a small, delicate bird fluttered through the air. Her plumage shimmered in hues of silver and midnight blue, a rare combination in this part of the forest.

Her name was Queenie, and at ten years old, she was already seen as something of an anomaly.

Unlike many of the other spirit beasts, who would typically awaken their full abilities at a young age, Queenie's situation was different. She had a spirit skill system—one that was broken, incomplete. The moment she had reached the age where most spirit beasts manifested their powers, she had been excited to see what skills she would gain. After all, she was a rare bird spirit beast, with potential that could rival even the mightiest of creatures.

But instead of a grand display of power, Queenie had received only one skill.

It was called Hang-Up, and it did nothing. Not at first, at least.

She remembered the moment clearly—her first attempt at using her skill had been met with silence. No explosion of light, no rush of power. It was as if the skill was a mere concept, waiting for something she couldn't grasp.

Hang-Up, Queenie had thought with a frown. It was a name that sounded like it was supposed to do something important. Yet all she could do was wait... and wait. There was nothing active about it.

But Queenie refused to give up. She had grown up surrounded by stronger spirit beasts—her parents, her older cousins, and all the other creatures of the forest. Many of them had completed their evolution into Title Douluos, powerful and majestic beings. Some had legendary abilities, while others had mastered devastating combat skills. Yet, here she was, a young bird, with only one unactivated, mysterious skill.

"I'll figure this out," she muttered to herself, her voice filled with determination as she soared through the sky. "I have to."