The hunt became their rhythm. Wake, track, fight, kill, then cultivate in the quiet hours of dusk. The days blurred, but the difference in their bodies was undeniable. Nyra's spells snapped sharper, Rael's strikes landed heavier, and Arden could feel his own core pressing against the ceiling of his realm. Every kill left more life energy churning inside him, and through their bond, Zephyra drank from it as well.
Nyra stretched after one long session, sweat glistening on her forehead. "At this rate, even a realm above won't scare us."
Rael smirked, rolling his shoulders. "Won't scare you, maybe. I plan on flattening them."
Arden didn't look up from where he sat cross-legged. "Confidence's good. Overconfidence gets you buried."
They laughed, but they knew he meant it.
By the fifth evening, Arden decided it was time to push higher.
