Chapter 59: Riding in Style

As Xavier lay next to Jessica, drifting into a deep sleep, his mind entered the dream state. The familiar presence of Elior greeted him. "Xavier," Elior's voice echoed in the vast space of the dream realm, "I see you're trying to master the Ethereal Draconic Step."

Xavier nodded, his determination unwavering. "I've never had a chance to fully try it, Elior. Now, with this new power, I want to see how far I can push myself. But something feels different… the connection to my bloodline is clearer, stronger."

Elior's voice became more focused. "Indeed. The Sky Rank seems to have unlocked something deeper within you. Now, the Ethereal Draconic Step can be refined, allowing you to move with unparalleled speed and grace. But it's not just about physical movement—it's about channeling the draconic energy that courses through you."

Xavier took a deep breath, focusing on the energy within him. He could feel the pulse of his bloodline, the connection to the dragons, stronger than ever. He reached within himself, calling upon the ancient power that had awakened.

Slowly at first, Xavier's body began to move with fluidity, his muscles reacting to the will of his mind. Then, as he concentrated, his body vanished from his current position, appearing 20 feet away in the blink of an eye. The transition was seamless, the air around him almost undetectable as he moved, leaving no trace.

Xavier's heart raced as he tried again, his movements becoming smoother with each attempt. The sensation was surreal—he was no longer just moving quickly. It was as if he had become one with the wind, flowing between spaces effortlessly.

"I can do this," Xavier whispered to himself, his voice steady with newfound confidence. "I can control it."

Elior's approval echoed in the background. "You're mastering it quickly, Xavier. The Ethereal Draconic Step is a tool of the dragons, allowing their descendants to bend the very fabric of space for a moment. But you must learn restraint. It is not only about speed. It's about precision. Every movement must have purpose."

Xavier nodded, honing his focus. He spent hours in the dream realm, moving and refining the technique until it felt as natural as breathing. He could now vanish and reappear with ease, his control over the Ethereal Draconic Step surpassing what he'd ever hoped.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Xavier awoke, the knowledge and the sensation of his new ability still fresh within him. He looked over at Jessica, a small smile creeping onto his face, before getting up to prepare himself for the challenges ahead. 

Xavier's excitement grew as he snuck away from the palace, eager to surprise everyone with a new acquisition. He made his way to a nearby town, known far and wide for its exotic and tamed spiritual creatures. The market was bustling, filled with merchants selling everything from rare spiritual beasts to medicinal herbs. As Xavier wandered through the streets, he marveled at the variety of creatures on display—each more impressive than the last.

After some time, Xavier's attention was drawn to a group of four majestic phoenixes, their fiery plumage glowing even under the muted sunlight. The birds were unlike any other he had seen, their powerful auras emitting a sense of raw, untamed energy. He approached the merchant, who stood proudly beside the creatures.

"How much for these phoenixes?" Xavier asked casually, already knowing that he would take them.

The merchant's eyes widened slightly upon seeing the powerful aura around Xavier, but he quickly recovered. "Each phoenix is priced at 10 million silver coins, my lord," he replied, his voice respectful but eager. "But if you are interested in all four, I can give you a discount. The total will be 40 million silver coins."

Xavier didn't hesitate. "I'll take them all," he said, reaching into his storage ring and pulling out the required amount. Without even flinching at the hefty price, he paid the merchant and gave a small, satisfied smile.

The merchant, surprised at how effortlessly Xavier handed over the large sum of silver, quickly arranged for the phoenixes to be released from their cages. Xavier didn't waste any time, hopping onto one of the magnificent creatures. With a single command, the phoenix flapped its fiery wings, soaring into the sky with incredible speed. The other three followed suit, flying gracefully in formation.

Xavier felt a thrill as he flew through the air on the back of the phoenix, the wind rushing past him, carrying the scent of fire and freedom. He could feel the creatures' loyalty already taking root, sensing their strong bond with him.

The journey back to the palace was swift, and as Xavier approached, the massive wings of the four phoenixes created a gust of wind that swept across the land. The sight was awe-inspiring—a true display of power and majesty. As they landed in front of the palace, Xavier couldn't help but smile, already imagining the look on his clan's faces when they saw what he had brought back.

Xavier dismounted from his phoenix, walking over to the others. The fiery birds landed behind him, their majestic forms now standing proudly in front of the palace. The guards and his clan members who had gathered nearby watched in awe, their eyes wide with surprise.

"What… are those?" Mara asked, her voice full of astonishment as she stepped forward.

Xavier, with a grin on his face, looked at his disciples and the others. "Meet my new companions," he said. "The four phoenixes. They'll make a fine addition to our clan."

Everyone stood in stunned silence for a moment before Raiden, ever eager, spoke up. "How did you… even afford these? Phoenixes are rare, and each one costs a fortune!"

Xavier shrugged nonchalantly. "I have my ways."

Jessica approached, her eyes gleaming as she marveled at the majestic creatures. "They're beautiful, Xavier. How do you plan to use them?"

Xavier smiled confidently. "They'll be used to enhance our power, of course. Phoenixes are incredible creatures, especially for a clan like ours. And besides, it's about time we add a bit more fire to our ranks."

Tonya, her eyes wide with admiration, added, "This is beyond anything I've seen before."

Xavier spoke to all of his friends, Jessica and his disciples. "Now that we are all here only five of us can go so with that being said my disciples still being young will stay." Turning to Raiden a smile on his face. Xavier said "don't think this as a punishment I'm trusting that you will help Tonya break through to the earth realm before we get back." 

Raiden stood straight, meeting Xavier's gaze with a look of determination. "I understand, Master. It's an honor to be entrusted with such responsibility. I will help Tonya break through to the Earth realm, and I will not disappoint you."

Tonya, standing beside Raiden, nodded earnestly, her eyes full of both gratitude and resolve. "I will focus on my cultivation, Master Xavier. You can count on me."

Xavier smiled, his gaze softening. "This isn't just a test of strength, but of your character. I'm confident that both of you will rise to the challenge. Raiden, I trust you will guide Tonya well. And Tonya, I know you have the potential to reach the Earth realm."

Raiden gave a small bow, looking both proud and humbled. "I will make sure of it."

Xavier then turned to Jessica, Liana, and the others. "The rest of you will be joining me. We have a difficult journey ahead, and I'll need all your strengths. But know that Raiden and Tonya have an important role to play in keeping the clan's progress moving forward."

Jessica, standing by Xavier's side, gave a firm nod. "We understand, Xavier. We'll make sure everything is taken care of here. You don't have to worry about us. Just return safely."

Mara, Eddie, and Felix stood silently behind Xavier, each of them ready for the challenges that awaited them. Xavier could feel the growing bond among them, a team forged by trials and victories alike.

"You five," Xavier continued, "are the core of this clan. Your strength is what will carry us forward, and I know we will face the coming trials together."

With that, Xavier turned to Raiden once more. "Do not rush your training. Take your time with Tonya and help her reach the Earth realm at her pace. When we return, we will celebrate your success."

Raiden gave a confident nod. "We will succeed, Master."

Xavier looked over the group, feeling the weight of the moment but also the strength of their unity. "Let's prepare. Tomorrow we leave at dawn."

With his plans set and his disciples ready, Xavier turned towards Jessica and the others. They were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, and together, they would push the clan toward greater strength and victory.