Embrace of the void

Upon arriving home, Michael felt a wave of excitement surge through him. He had been eagerly anticipating this moment—summoning Raven Nightshade once more. With a flick of his wrist, he called forth the crow, who materialized from the void with a magnificent display of dark feathers and ethereal grace. However, the crow was so large that it nearly filled the entire room, making it difficult for him to maneuver.

"You're so big! Do you have the ability to control your size?" Michael asked, marveling at the creature's imposing form.

In an instant, Raven Nightshade shrank down, settling comfortably on Michael's shoulder. The transformation was seamless, and Michael couldn't help but chuckle at the sight. "That's much better!"

"Can you talk?" Michael inquired, curiosity piqued.

"Yes, sir," Raven replied, his voice smooth and deep, resonating with an otherworldly quality.

"Well, I know most of your skills, but can you explain a bit more about the Eyes of the Void, the Senses of the Void, the Void Clones, and your innate ability?"

Raven paused, his expression shifting slightly, as if concentrating. "My memory is foggy, and I don't have extensive information about my skills and innate abilities. However, I can share what I know."

He continued, "The Eyes of the Void allow me to peer through void dimensions without being detected. It's like having a window into places that should remain unseen."

Michael nodded, impressed. "That sounds incredibly powerful."

"As for the Senses of the Void," Raven continued, "I can sense the voids and my surroundings, detecting subtle changes in the environment. It's essential for tracking and awareness."

"And what about the Void Clones?" Michael asked, intrigued.

"Void Clones enable me to create smaller copies of myself. Although they can't engage in combat, they excel at sneaking, hiding, observing, and even delivering messages," Raven explained.

Michael pondered this for a moment. "That sounds strategic. And your innate ability?"

"My innate ability allows me to sense spatial fluctuations around me, no matter how minute," Raven said. "It's like having an instinctual understanding of the space I occupy."

"Your Senses of the Void should be similar to Nyxar's skill," Michael mused, realization dawning. "This will help you train it effectively."

He then gave his new companion a task. "Now, your mission is to monitor our surroundings and ensure that no one sneaks into our home. Use your Void Clones to scout the area and keep

"Understood," Raven replied, determination in his voice.

"Also, don't call me 'sir'—just 'Michael.' You're family now," he added, a warm smile spreading across his face.

With a nod, Raven released three small, shadowy copies of himself, each taking flight with silent grace. They dispersed into the air, scouting various directions around the house. Michael felt a rush of pride as he watched them go.

Activating his {Ethereal Link} skill, Michael found himself observing his home from the perspectives of the three clones. He could see the surroundings clearly, noting every shadow and movement with heightened awareness.

"Good job, Raven. Now I need to focus on my training and prepare for the final exams. Morgoth and Vragoth, out!" Michael commanded, summoning his other companions from the depths of his shadow.

With a whisper, Morgoth and Vragoth emerged, taking their places beside him. The air was thick with anticipation as they gathered, ready for whatever lay ahead.

"You can train with Nyxar and Raven while I focus on my studies and training," Michael instructed, feeling a mix of excitement and responsibility.

"Okay," Morgoth responded, his tone serious yet eager.

Michael retreated to his room, the door clicking shut behind him. Inside, he felt the weight of his responsibilities pressing down, but the presence of his companions gave him strength. Vragoth, Morgoth, Nyxar, and Raven settled in, engaging in conversation while Michael prepared himself for the tasks ahead.

As he organized his notes and training materials, Michael couldn't shake the feeling that he was on the precipice of something monumental. With Raven Nightshade at his side and the support of his companions, he was ready to face whatever challenges awaited him. Each moment felt charged with potential, and he was determined to harness it fully.

Michael dedicated the last six days to relentless training and studying, preparing himself for the impending final exams. Each moment was a blend of sweat and determination, pushing himself to hone his skills and deepen his knowledge.

As the day of the exams approached, Michael felt a surge of confidence.

 "Are you ready?" Nyxar asked, leaning back in his chair with a casual air.

 "Yes, I am," Michael replied.

 "Have you made any progress?" Michael inquired, genuinely curious.

Morgoth, busy chewing on a piece of meat, chimed in. "I've increased my proficiency in many of my skills."

 "Me too," Vragoth added succinctly, his expression serious.

 "I've mastered the Void Clone Technique," Raven announced, a hint of pride in his voice. "I can now create five copies of myself."

Michael glanced around,"What about you, Nyx?"

 "I've also made strides with my skills and techniques," Nyxar responded. "I focused primarily on breaking through my rank.

 I plan to head to school for the exams soon. Raven sent some copies to scout the school in advance."

Michael nodded. "As for you two, return to my shadow for now."

With a swift motion, Vragoth and Morgoth melded into Michael's shadow, their presence a comforting weight. With his companions momentarily secured, Michael turned to Nyxar.

 "Let's go," he said, determination fueling their steps. Together, they left for the school, ready to confront the challenges ahead.