Chapter 17: A Dragon is born
As Aether sat in his room, his gaze was fixed on the dragon egg before him. The system had informed him that today was the day it would hatch, given that he had completed the necessary quest. With a deep breath, he knew what he needed to do.
Aether placed his hands on the egg, focusing intently as he channeled his magical energy and the power of the 5th through magic into it. The process required absolute concentration; any mistake could have disastrous consequences.
Just then, the door to his room creaked open. Eula entered, intending to retrieve something, but her eyes widened when she saw Aether, who appeared deeply engrossed.
Eula approached him, concern etched on her face. "Aether, what's going on?"
As she touched him, her own energy inadvertently flowed into Aether and then into the egg.
In an instant, there was a sudden, powerful explosion. The force of it sent Aether and Eula crashing across the room. The shockwave was so intense that it was felt throughout the entire Knight of Favonius headquarters.
When the dust finally settled, Aether and Eula looked up to see a small child, no older than five, emerging from the remnants of the egg. He had a striking mix of light blue and yellow hair, and his eyes were a vibrant blend of yellow and blue. The child possessed two blue dragon wings and radiated an unmistakable dragon aura.
The dragon boy looked up at Aether and Eula, his voice innocent and curious. "Mama, Papa?"
Both Aether and Eula were stunned, their jaws dropping in disbelief. Even Paimon, who had been observing the scene, was left wide-eyed. Before they could react, the door burst open to reveal Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya. Amber and Lisa were visibly angry, their expressions cold and their weapons ready.
Amber, holding her bow with an arrow drawn, glared at Aether and Eula. "Explain."
Five minutes later, everyone gathered in Jean's office, including Diluc, who had heard the explosion from his work and rushed over to investigate. The room was filled with a tense silence as everyone looked at the dragon boy and then back at Aether and Eula, waiting for an explanation.
In the office, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Jean's eyes were locked on Aether and Eula, her usual calm demeanor replaced by a fierce determination to understand the situation. Diluc stood off to the side, his gaze focused on the dragon boy, a mixture of curiosity and concern in his expression. Amber and Lisa, still visibly fuming, maintained their threatening postures, while Kaeya's face was inscrutable.
Aether, still in shock from the unexpected turn of events, finally gathered his composure. He cleared his throat and addressed the room. "This... is our fault. I was trying to hatch the dragon egg, but something went wrong."
Eula, trying to regain her composure, nodded. "I was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. I didn't mean for my energy to interfere."
Jean's expression softened slightly, but her gaze remained serious. "Aether, Eula, you need to explain everything. What was this egg? How did you get it? And why did it hatch into a dragon child?"
Aether took a deep breath, ready to disclose what he knew. "This egg was a reward from a quest I completed. I was informed that it would hatch today if I provided it with enough magical energy. I didn't expect it to create such a powerful reaction. As for the dragon child, I didn't anticipate that outcome."
Jean nodded, her eyes never leaving the dragon boy. "And what do you plan to do now? This dragon child's presence raises many questions, not to mention the safety of Mondstadt."
Before Aether could respond, the dragon boy toddled over to him, reaching out with tiny hands. "Papa, Mama, where am I?"
Aether's heart ached at the innocent query. "We're in Mondstadt, a city of freedom. We need to figure out how to care for you now."
Diluc stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "This situation is unprecedented. We need to ensure the safety of Mondstadt and the child. For now, let's keep this matter contained and see how we can address it."
Amber, still holding her bow, reluctantly lowered her weapon but remained wary. "I want answers, and I want them quickly. We can't afford any more surprises."
Lisa, though calmer than Amber, added, "The child's magic and aura are unlike anything I've seen before. We need to understand what kind of influence he might have on our city."
Eula, feeling a pang of guilt, stepped forward. "I will assist in any way I can. I didn't intend for any of this, but I want to help resolve it."
Jean, after a moment of contemplation, gave a nod. "Very well. Aether, Eula, Diluc, and I will investigate this further. Amber and Lisa, please monitor the child's condition and report any anomalies. Kaeya, please ensure that the situation remains contained within the Knights of Favonius."
The group quickly fell into action. Diluc took Aether aside to discuss the next steps in a quieter corner of the office. "We need to find out more about this child and his origins. If he has any special abilities, we should be prepared to manage them."
Aether nodded, determination in his eyes. "I agree. I'll work with you to ensure we handle this properly."
Meanwhile, Amber and Lisa began examining the dragon boy, who was still clinging to Aether. Lisa, using her knowledge of magic, assessed the child's energy and aura. "He's powerful, but his presence here is not necessarily harmful. We'll need to keep a close watch on him."
Kaeya, stepping out to handle the containment measures, ensured that the news about the dragon boy remained within the confines of the Knights of Favonius. His demeanor was composed, but he was vigilant in his efforts to prevent any leaks to the public.
As the day wore on, the initial chaos began to subside. Aether, Eula, and Diluc worked closely to understand the implications of the dragon boy's arrival. They soon discovered that the child possessed both Anemo and Cryo affinities, an unusual combination that suggested a unique heritage.
In the evening, as the sun began to set over Mondstadt, the group gathered again. The dragon boy, now calmer and more comfortable, played with a small toy given to him by Lisa.
Jean addressed the group, her tone measured but hopeful. "We've learned that the child's magic is not inherently dangerous, but it's clear he has a strong connection to both elemental forces. We'll need to integrate him into Mondstadt carefully and ensure he's educated about his abilities."
Aether looked at the dragon boy, who was now playing contentedly. "I'll take responsibility for him. I'll make sure he learns how to control his powers and adapt to this world."
Jean nodded approvingly. "Good. For now, let's focus on making sure the child is safe and adjusting to his new environment. We'll continue our investigation and monitor any potential impacts on Mondstadt."
Lisa then looked at the Dragon boy as she spoke. "Dragon egg? Is it the same one we got from the wind temple when you first came to Mondstandt, the same one you told me not to destroy it"
Aether just looked at her. "Um yes, this is the same one we found that day".
Lisa's eyes widened in recognition. "That explains a lot. I remember the energy signatures from that egg were unusual, but I never anticipated it would hatch into something like this."
Jean, who had been listening intently, nodded thoughtfully. "That egg was indeed mysterious. We all felt something special about it when it was found. But I didn't expect it would result in a dragon child."
Amber, who had been quiet for a moment, spoke up. "Does this mean there's more to this egg than we originally thought? Could it be tied to any ancient legends or prophecies?"
Lisa shook her head. "I don't know of any specific prophecies, but given the egg's history and the circumstances of its hatching, it's clear that it's far more significant than we initially believed."
Diluc, who had been observing quietly, stepped forward. "Given the dragon boy's presence and the energy he radiates, we should consider the possibility of ancient connections or even old rivalries resurfacing. We need to be prepared for any potential consequences."
Jean agreed. "We'll need to conduct further research into the egg's origins and its potential implications for Mondstadt. It's important that we understand exactly what we're dealing with."
Aether, feeling the weight of responsibility, nodded. "I'll assist with the research and make sure the dragon boy, whom we should probably give a name soon, is well cared for."
Lisa smiled slightly at Aether's determination. "We'll figure this out together. In the meantime, we should focus on making sure the child is safe and integrating well into his new environment."
As the meeting concluded, the group set about their respective tasks. Jean and Lisa began delving into the archives to uncover any information related to the dragon egg. Amber and Kaeya continued to monitor the situation, ensuring that no external threats or disturbances arose. Diluc worked on fortifying Mondstadt's defenses, preparing for any potential issues that might arise from the dragon boy's presence.
Aether spent time with the dragon boy, who seemed to be adjusting well despite the upheaval. The child, still unsure of his new surroundings, began to explore and interact with those around him. Eula, who felt particularly responsible for the situation, took on a caretaker role, helping to calm and comfort the dragon boy.
As days passed, the dragon boy's presence became a part of daily life in Mondstadt. He was introduced to the city's residents, who were initially curious but soon accepted him as part of their community. The Knights of Favonius, working together, ensured that he was well protected and educated about his unique abilities.
Aether, now deeply involved in the dragon boy's upbringing, began to see the child not just as a quest reward but as a new responsibility. The bond between them grew stronger, and the dragon boy, who had initially been confused and frightened, began to show signs of affection and trust.
Despite the challenges, the presence of the dragon boy brought a sense of unity and purpose to Mondstadt. The Knights of Favonius, alongside Aether and his friends, worked diligently to ensure that the child's integration was smooth and that the city remained safe.
As Aether looked out over Mondstadt, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and determination. The dragon boy's arrival had indeed brought unforeseen changes, but with the support of his friends and the strength of their combined efforts, Aether was ready to face whatever came next, knowing that Mondstadt would stand strong together.
The next day arrived as everyone was gather again, as they put a few books down.
Lisa just sighed. "And we found noting, other then story of Stormterror sometimes turning into a human sometimes".
Jeanne just sighed and looked at them. "The Dragon is Cryo and Anemo Dragon, the same elements of Aether and Eula".
Diluc the spoke looking at both Aether and Eula. "Did you give the kid a name, you two are this boys"
Both Aether and Eula just looked at Diluc and spoken embraces. "Um about that....no"
Amber smacked her forehead as she looked at him. "What are meaning behind you two names"
Aether then spoke. "My name means, Brightness or Bright upper sky"
Eule then spoken looking at the group. "Mine means Well-spoken".
Diluc then thought for a bit. "So what would a name be if we mix those two".
Diluc's question hung in the air as everyone pondered the combination of Aether's and Eula's names. The room fell silent for a moment as the group considered potential names that could embody both meanings—brightness and eloquence.
Lisa broke the silence with a thoughtful expression. "Perhaps something that reflects both the sky and the ability to communicate or influence might be appropriate. We could look at names with meanings related to light and speech."
Amber nodded enthusiastically. "How about 'Luminis'? It combines the idea of light with a hint of nobility, which might be fitting for a dragon child."
Jean raised an eyebrow. "Or 'Celestine', which evokes both the celestial sky and has a refined, eloquent ring to it."
Aether and Eula looked at each other, considering the suggestions. Eula smiled softly. "I like 'Luminis'. It sounds fitting and has a nice ring to it."
Aether agreed, nodding in approval. "Luminis it is, then. It captures both the brightness and the sense of importance we want for him."
As the decision was made, the group prepared to introduce the dragon boy to his new name. Diluc, with his usual seriousness, added, "It's important that we continue to monitor his development closely. With his unique heritage, we need to be vigilant about any changes or issues that might arise."
Lisa concurred. "Agreed. We should also consider his education and integration into Mondstadt's society. Ensuring he understands his heritage and abilities will be crucial for his future."
The group dispersed, each taking on their respective tasks to support Luminis and ensure his well-being. Aether and Eula took special care in nurturing Luminis, helping him adjust to his new name and role within the community.
As the days went by, Luminis began to thrive under the guidance of Aether, Eula, and the Knights of Favonius. His unique abilities and heritage continued to be a source of fascination and concern, but with the support of his new family and community, he adapted well.
The presence of Luminis brought new challenges and opportunities for growth to Mondstadt, but it also brought a renewed sense of hope and unity. Aether and Eula, alongside their friends, faced the future with determination, knowing that the journey ahead would be filled with both excitement and uncertainty.
With Luminis now a part of their lives, the bonds between the characters grew stronger, and the city of Mondstadt embraced the changes brought about by the arrival of their new, unexpected member.
To be continued