Chapter 2: Learning the Ropes

It would have been lovely in your old world when the first light of morning painted the sky in gentle pink and gold tones, but here it seemed strange, as though the sky itself was alive. It wasn't until you blinked in an attempt to acclimate to the light that you realized everything had changed. The air you inhaled, your body, and your senses.

A few steps ahead, the love interest was seeing the sunrise with a calm look. In sharp contrast to the turbulence roiling inside of you, they appeared content in this world. The Companion flew around you, a little, playful creature with big eyes and a never-ending smile, commenting on everything in a voice that was somehow irritating and oddly charming.

"First things first," the love interest said, turning to grin gently in your direction. "You have to realize who you are right now. There are many different kinds of beings in this universe, each with special powers. If you want to survive here, you'll have to learn how to manage yours."

You nodded, but doubt crept in your stomach. It felt weird—this new body of yours—too sensitive, too powerful. It seemed as though every muscle was taut and prepared to contract, and every nerve was on high alert. Even though you had no idea what you looked like, you occasionally caught a glimpse of something enormous in a nearby stream. It had wings that were uncomfortably tucked against your back, scales that shimmered in the sun, and claws that snapped against the earth.

Hovering in front of you, the Companion chirped, "Let's start with something simple." "Try spreading your wings a little. I bet you haven't even attempted to fly yet.

taking off. The mere notion caused your heart to speed. You were able to fly! But it seemed ridiculous to think about really employing them. Nevertheless, you took a hesitant look at your love interest and decided to give it a shot after receiving an encouraging nod.

As soon as you opened your wings, the early air grabbed them and pulled you just a little off balance. With a chuckle, the Companion scurried about your skull. "Not in that manner! Before you even get off the ground, you'll collapse!"

Your face was shot with heat; did you still blush?Yet you gave it another go, with more restraint this time. Gradually, flapping your wings clumsily, you felt yourself lifted a few inches off the ground by the air. It was simultaneously horrifying and thrilling.

The Love Interest was amused and impressed at the same time. They gave you a hand and said, "Not bad for a first try," as you staggered back to the floor. You felt anchored in this odd new world by their warm touch. "It'll take time, but you'll get the hang of it."

You trained under their tutelage over the following few hours, learning how to move across the world in your new shape. You learned that your wings could generate strong gusts of wind, which you could use to knock enemies down or even to eliminate obstructions. You also learned that your wings weren't only for flying. The claws that you originally had, despite being perceived as a barrier, turned out to be very sharp and able to cut through hard materials. And your scales, which you felt gave you a monster appearance, were as strong as armor and shielded you from the elements.

But it wasn't always simple. Your newfound skills were erratic and even overpowering. There were times you unintentionally sent the companion flying with a too forceful flap of your wings, or you tripped and fell in a tangle of limbs and frustration due to your claws being trapped in the ground. The companion laughed at every slip-up, and the love interest patiently encouraged you to try again and never gave up.

One especially difficult instance occurred when you tried to breathe fire, which the companion strongly advised against possessing the ability to perform. You inhaled deeply, concentrated on the warmth rising in your chest, and then released the breath, only to release a little puff of smoke that vanished in an instant.

The companion rolled around on the ground in fits of laughter and howled. Is that all? I've seen younger dragons perform better."

Even your love interest smiled despite your scowl at the little creature. "It's alright," they comforted you, resting a hand on your shoulder. It will eventually appear. As you still get used to it."

Even with the disappointments, there were victories. It was an incredible feeling the first time you were able to soar above the trees and feel the wind surge through your wings. The view of the huge and abundant world below you, many opportunities, gave you a sense of independence you had never experienced. The love interest's triumphant expression proved that all your efforts were worthwhile when you were able to eventually call forth a modest, controlled flame.

At the end of the day, you felt worn out yet satisfied. Your romantic partner brought you to a serene lakeside spot where you all took a seat to unwind. At your side, snuggled up in a ball of fur, was your companion, silent for once. With the dusk deepening, the Love Interest sat close by, their presence soothing.

They remarked, gently and with compassion in their voice, "You're doing well." "This world is challenging, but you're stronger than you know."

As you gazed at them, your heart began to pound with thankfulness and something more, with greater. You had discovered something unexpected in this odd new body and strange new world: a bond that went beyond your previous existence.

You came to the realization that perhaps, just possibly, this new existence wasn't all that horrible as the stars started to glimmer in the night sky.