The vortex of dark energy dissipated as quickly as it had appeared, leaving the clearing eerily silent. The guardian dragon had vanished, its massive form dissolving into motes of light that swirled around the cub and me before fading into nothingness.
The cub nudged my leg with its snout, its violet eyes gleaming with curiosity and a hint of recognition. I knelt, gently running my hand along its scales, which were surprisingly warm despite their dark, metallic appearance.
"Looks like it's just you and me now," I said softly, my voice carrying a mix of relief and awe.
The cub let out a soft growl, almost like a purr, and I felt a surge of mana flow between us again. This time, it was stronger, more deliberate. The connection we'd begun to form earlier was solidifying, the bond becoming tangible.
A system notification flashed before my eyes:
«Dark Dragon Cub has accepted the bond.»
«New companion acquired.»
«Status: Unnamed Bonded Beast.»
And here i thought i needed soul contracts and stuff it seems the Voidnet is truly more capable than i give it credit for.
"Unnamed, huh?" I muttered, scratching the cub behind its horns. It closed its eyes, clearly enjoying the attention. "Alright, little one. Let's get out of here and figure out what to call you."
---
The journey back to the dungeon's entrance was far less eventful than my arrival. The remaining monsters seemed to instinctively avoid us, no doubt sensing the power radiating from the cub.
As we approached the exit platform, I glanced down at my new companion. It walked confidently beside me, its small wings folded neatly against its sides. Despite its size—it was only about as tall as my waist—I could sense the immense potential it held.
Once we reached the exit, I activated the anchor. The familiar sensation of being pulled through space enveloped me, and moments later, I was standing outside the dungeon.
---
A small crowd of attendants waited near my parked car, their faces a mix of relief and curiosity. When they saw the cub beside me, their eyes widened.
"Is… is that a Dark Dragon Cub?" one of them stammered.
"It is," I confirmed, keeping my tone casual. "It bonded with me inside the dungeon."
The manager, Mr. Blackwall, stepped forward, his expression a blend of astonishment and respect. "Young Lord Arax, this is a remarkable achievement. Dark Dragons are incredibly rare, and forming a bond with one… It's unheard of at your age."
"Thanks," I replied, waving off the praise. "But I still have a lot to learn about this little guy."
The cub growled softly, as if agreeing.
---
Once I was back in my car, the cub settled on the seat beside me, curling up like a giant housecat. I couldn't help but smile as it let out a contented sigh.
"So, what should I call you?" I asked, glancing at it.
The cub tilted its head, its violet eyes meeting mine. I could feel its thoughts, faint but clear enough to understand. It didn't care much about the name, so long as it came from me.
"Alright," I said, tapping my chin. "How about… Umbra? It suits your dark scales and mysterious vibe."
The cub let out a pleased rumble, and the system chimed again:
«Companion named Umbra.»
«Bond Rank: 1.»
"Umbra it is," I said with a grin.
---
By the time we reached the estate, the sun was beginning to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. As I stepped out of the car, Umbra followed, stretching its wings briefly before folding them back against its body.
The servants stared as we walked past, whispering among themselves. I ignored them, heading straight for the training grounds.
My mother was there, practicing with her mana blades. She paused when she saw me, her eyes widening as they fell on Umbra.
"Arax," she began, her tone a mix of surprise and pride. "Is that…?"
"A Dark Dragon Cub," I confirmed. "His name is Umbra."
She set her blades aside, approaching us with a measured stride. Umbra watched her intently, but there was no hostility in its gaze.
My mother knelt, holding out a hand. "May I?"
I nodded, and Umbra stepped forward cautiously, sniffing her hand before allowing her to touch its snout.
"Incredible," she murmured, her eyes softening. "This bond… it's rare even among the strongest Spiritmancers. You've done well, my son."
"Thanks, Mother," I said, feeling a swell of pride.
I mean not only was my bond a bundle of cuteness but one that was very ferocious.
---
After a quick dinner, I retreated to my room, eager to learn more about Umbra. The cub explored the space curiously, sniffing at bookshelves and furniture before settling on the rug near my desk.
I opened my status window, navigating to the companion section:
Companion: Umbra
Type: Dark Dragon (Juvenile)
Rank: 1 (Potential: Rank 8)
Abilities:
Shadow Veil: Cloaks itself in shadows, becoming nearly invisible.
Dark Lance: A Lance made of pure darkness attribute has exellent destructive power and can go through most conventional defenses.
Mana Absorption: Draws mana from the surroundings to recover energy. It can rapidly recover and can engage for Very long periods of time.
Draconic Roar: A roar that disrupts enemy focus and lowers morale.
Flight (Locked): Gains the ability to fly at Rank A.
Dragon Breath: Inherent Ability of all Dragon. Unleash a torrent a dark jet black flames capable of destroying almost anything.
Bond Rank: 1 (40%)
I whistled softly. "A Rank 1 companion with Rank 8 potential? No wonder the guardian was so protective."
Umbra let out a soft growl, as if it knew I was talking about it.
"Alright, Umbra," I said, closing the window. "Let's see what you can do."
---
The next morning, we headed to the training grounds. My father was already there, sparring with one of the Supreme knights of our house, Extremely poweful Rank 7 Beings that are almost at the pinnacle of creation and power. He paused when he saw us, his expression unreadable.
"Arax," he said, his tone firm. "Is that your new companion?"
"Yes," I replied. "His name is Umbra."
He studied the cub for a moment before nodding. "Good. Let's see how well you two work together." Well that's weird i guess my father's kinda socially awkward.
I blinked. "Right now?"
"Right now," he confirmed, stepping aside to give us space. Damn this man always lives in the present huh.
I took a deep breath, turning to Umbra. "Ready?"
The cub growled in affirmation, its eyes gleaming with excitement.
My father conjured a training golem, its massive form towering over us. "Show me what you've got."
---
The golem charged, its heavy footsteps shaking the ground. I reacted instinctively, summoning a Wind Blade and hurling it at the construct.
Umbra, meanwhile, activated Shadow Veil, disappearing from sight.
The golem stumbled as my Wind Blade struck its leg, but it quickly regained its balance. Before it could retaliate, Umbra reappeared behind it, slashing at its back with its claws.
"Nice one, Umbra!" I called, weaving another spell. "Frost Lance!"
The icy projectile struck the golem's shoulder, freezing part of its arm. Umbra took advantage of the opening, leaping onto the construct's back and sinking its teeth into its neck.
The golem let out a mechanical groan, swinging its arm in an attempt to dislodge the cub.
"Wind Step!"
I dashed forward, aiming a Lightning Sphere at the golem's chest. The explosion knocked it off balance, and Umbra leapt free just as the construct toppled to the ground.
---
My father clapped, a rare smile on his face. "Impressive. You and Umbra already move like a team."
"Thanks," I said, panting slightly.
Umbra padded over to me, nuzzling my side. I scratched behind its horns, feeling the bond between us strengthen.
"Looks like we're off to a good start," I murmured.
But as I looked at Umbra, I couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning. There was so much more to learn about my new companion—and so many challenges ahead. So many powers and abilities to unlock best yet now thay i have a draconian bond i have exlusive access to draconian Supreme Mana Arts. Too excited for this.
To Be Continued…