Call of the night

Ever since my fight with Nyla, sneaking out of Blackstone Academy has become my go-to pastime. It's only been a week, but the monotonous training has already lost its charm. The prospect of flying through the night, exploring Amer - the capital of the Demon Kingdom - calls to me like a siren's song.

As I don my cloak, a grin spreads across my face. The thrill of freedom washes over me as I slip out of my room, double-checking that no one's watching. With a gentle leap, I take to the skies, the wind catching beneath me and lifting me effortlessly into the air. I soar above the academy, the sprawling grounds bathed in moonlight, before setting a course for the vibrant city below.

Amer pulses with life - a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. As I touch down on a cobblestone street, I tug my hood low, blending into the shadows. The aroma of roasted meats and sweet pastries wafts through the air, tempting my senses. I can't resist the allure, so I hit up a nearby food stall, exchanging a few coins for a skewer of grilled meat. I take a bite, the flavors exploding on my tongue, and I can't help but chuckle at how something so simple can feel so monumental after a week of strict training.

I wander through the bustling streets, taking in the merchants calling out their wares, the colorful banners fluttering in the evening breeze. Distant laughter and the thump of music spill from an open tavern door, drawing me in. I pause to listen, the rhythmic beat of the drums and the lively melody inviting me to join in the revelry. But I shake my head, reminding myself I'm here to explore, not to get caught up in the festivities.

As I stroll, I take in the architecture - tall stone buildings adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals depicting the kingdom's history. The city feels alive, pulsing with energy. I weave through crowds of demons, some oblivious to my presence while others eye me curiously. The thrill of being an unseen observer exhilarates me. I'm just a kid in a cloak, and they have no idea who I really am.

After a while, I find myself drifting towards a quieter part of town. The noise of the marketplace fades, replaced by the eerie stillness of an alleyway. I glance around, intrigued. Something about the darkness pulls me in, and I decide to investigate further.

As I step into the alley, I hear laughter - harsh, mocking chuckles that break the silence. My curiosity piqued, I peer around the corner. A group of demons is lounging against the wall, their eyes scanning the streets with malicious intent. They're clearly up to no good.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" one of them sneers, noticing me and stepping forward. "A little kid in a cloak. You lost, runt?"

I smirk, unfazed by their taunts. "What do you want?"

They exchange glances, their intentions clear. "We're just looking for some fun, kid. Why don't you come a little closer?"

I take a step back, sizing them up. They have no idea who they're dealing with. "I don't think you're ready for the kind of fun I can bring," I reply coolly, feeling the wind at my fingertips.

The first demon moves closer, his smug grin growing wider. "Oh yeah? What can you do?"

"Enough to make you regret coming after me," I state confidently, my voice steady.

Their laughter falters as I shift my stance. I take a deep breath, subtly channeling the wind around me.

"Why don't you just let me go? I'll forget this ever happened," I suggest, my tone firm.

"Who do you think you are?" another demon scoffs, but there's uncertainty in his voice now. They're starting to realize I'm not just any kid.

"I'm not someone you want to mess with," I reply, keeping my eyes locked on theirs.

The group exchanges glances, their bravado waning. "You're just a kid," the first demon says, though doubt laces his words.

With a swift decision, I choose to have some fun. I step forward, a grin spreading across my face as I summon a gust of wind, knocking the first demon off balance and sending him crashing into the others. They stumble, confusion marring their expressions as they regain their footing.

"Wait! What the—?" one of them exclaims, eyes wide.

I dart forward, my movements fluid and swift. The second demon tries to throw a punch, but I easily dodge, I didn't even need foresight for that one. I Countered with a sharp kick that sends him sprawling to the ground. Laughter bubbles up inside me; it's amusing to see how quickly they crumble.

"Is this the best you can do?" I taunt, enjoying the rush of adrenaline. The remaining demons look at each other, uncertainty creeping in as they realize they're outmatched.

The last demon lunges at me, but I sidestep him easily, grabbing him by the collar and lifting him off the ground. "Think you'll remember not to mess with kids in cloaks?" I ask, my voice low and steady.

"Okay, okay! Just let me go!" he stammers, panic flickering in his eyes.

With a smirk, I toss him aside, letting him scramble away. I take a moment to revel in the thrill of victory, the rush of taking down those would-be kidnappers. It's not every day I get to put a group of foolish demons in their place, and I can't help but feel a surge of power.

As the last of them disappears into the shadows, I feel invigorated. I've had my fun, and the encounter only adds to my confidence. I continue my stroll through Amer, a smile on my face and a bounce in my step.

The night air is cool against my skin, and I relish the freedom of the city around me. There's so much to explore, and I'm just getting started. I'm Aiden, the son of the Demon King, and I won't let anyone or anything ruin this moment.