The evening air outside was tinged with the soft hues of dusk, streaks of violet and gold melting into the deepening blue above. The academy grounds glowed faintly under the lanterns lit along the pathways, their light flickering gently against the cool stone walls. A breeze drifted through, carrying with it the faint scent of blooming night-flowers.
Luca stood still for a moment, drawing a deep breath before extending his hand. A ripple of mana shimmered in the air, and from it emerged a small Kunpeng in its bird form, feathers glowing faintly with azure and silver light. It spread its wings wide before twirling in the air with elegance, circling around him like a streak of starlight.
Luca's face broke into a rare, unguarded smile. His voice trembled with joy as he exclaimed,
"You're finally back, Aira!!"
The little Kunpeng instantly dived down and tapped him sharply on the head with its beak.
"Again with that stupid nickname."
