Chapter 11: Life-changing decision
I woke up feeling restless, my mind still buzzing with thoughts of carrying a large clutch of baby dragons. I knew it wouldn't be an easy journey, but I couldn't shake the feeling that this was something I was meant to do.
As I wobbled around the nesting site, my silver scales glinting in the sunlight, I couldn't stop thinking about carrying a large clutch of baby dragons. I knew it was a big responsibility, but I felt an instinctual pull towards it.
My siblings, Vyraxys and Nyxoria, chased each other around the nesting site, their tiny roars and laughter filling the air. They were still so young, and I was too, but I felt a sense of maturity wash over me as I considered my decision.
As I step out of the mountain cave, the bright sunlight greets me, and the cool mountain air fills my lungs. I stretch my small dragon body, feeling the warmth on my silver scales.
Father Aetherius follows me, his albino scales glowing in the sunlight. "Be careful, Tharros," he says, his voice gentle but watchful.
I nod, knowing he's always looking out for me. I glance back at the cave, seeing Mother Thyriatrix watching over my younger siblings, Vyraxys and Nyxoria, as they play and tumble around the nesting site.
The view before me is breathtaking. The mountain range stretches out, with towering peaks and valleys as far as the eye can see. I feel a sense of wonder and curiosity at the world beyond our little cave.
Father Aetherius and Mother Thyriatrix watched over us with warm smiles, oblivious to the thoughts swirling in my mind. I knew I had a lot to learn and grow from before I could even think about carrying a clutch, but I couldn't help feeling excited about the possibility.
As I step out of the mountain cave, the bright sunlight greets me, and the cool mountain air fills my lungs. I stretch my small dragon body, feeling the warmth on my silver scales.
Father Aetherius follows me, his albino scales glowing in the sunlight. "Be careful, Tharros," he says, his voice gentle but watchful.
I nod, knowing he's always looking out for me. I glance back at the cave, seeing Mother Thyriatrix watching over my younger siblings, Vyraxys and Nyxoria, as they play and tumble around the nesting site.
The view before me is breathtaking. The mountain range stretches out, with towering peaks and valleys as far as the eye can see. I feel a sense of wonder and curiosity at the world beyond our little cave.
Father Aetherius's expression turns thoughtful, and he regards me with a warm, gentle gaze. "Ah, Tharros, you're growing up so fast," he says, his voice filled with a mix of nostalgia and affection. "As for having a family of your own... well, as a genderless dragon, that path might be more complicated for you."
He pauses, studying me for a moment before continuing. "But that doesn't mean you won't have a family or loved ones in your life, Tharros. You'll always have us, and who knows? Maybe you'll find other ways to build a family or community that's all your own."
I appreciate his words, but I know he doesn't realize the truth - that I'm capable of carrying baby dragons on my own. I keep that secret to myself, wondering when the right time will be to share it with him and the rest of my family.
I spoke, "I've been thinking I don't want a mate in my life!"
Father Aetherius's expression changes to one of understanding and acceptance. "That's perfectly okay, Tharros," he says, his voice gentle and reassuring. "Not every dragon needs or wants a mate to be happy and fulfilled. What's important is that you're true to yourself and follow your own path."
He pauses, studying me for a moment before continuing. "We'll always support you, no matter what you decide. You're our beloved child, and we want you to be happy."
I feel a sense of relief wash over me, knowing that my father accepts and supports my decision. But I also know that I'm still keeping a big secret from him and the rest of my family...
My father wrapped his wings around me, and I get that save heavan when I'm under my father wings
I snuggle deeper into the warmth and safety of my father's wings, feeling a sense of peace and security wash over me. It's a feeling I've always loved, ever since I was a tiny hatchling. Whenever Father Aetherius wraps his wings around me, I feel like nothing can harm me, like I'm protected from the whole world.
As I breathe in the scent of his scales and feel the gentle rustle of his wings, I let out a contented sigh. This is my happy place, my safe haven. I feel grateful to have such a loving and protective father, and I know that no matter what challenges I face in life, he'll always be here to support and care for me.
As I bask in the warmth and security of my father's wings, I feel my eyelids growing heavy. The sound of his gentle humming, a soothing vibration that seems to resonate deep within my chest, lulls me into a state of relaxation.
Before I know it, I'm drifting off to sleep, surrounded by the safety and love of my father's wings. It's a feeling I never want to end, a sense of being completely protected and cared for.
As I sleep, I'm vaguely aware of my father's wings adjusting to cradle me more comfortably, his gentle breath rustling my scales. I know I'm safe, and that's all that matters.
I sleep for a while, lulled by the warmth and security of my father's wings. When I finally stir, I feel refreshed and rejuvenated. I stretch my small dragon body, arching my back and extending my claws.
Father Aetherius smiles, his eyes warm with affection. "Feeling better, little one?" he asks, his voice low and soothing.
I nod, still feeling a bit sleepy. My father gently nuzzles me, his scales rubbing against mine in a comforting gesture.
As I look up at him, I feel a surge of love and gratitude. I'm so lucky to have a father like Aetherius, who always knows just what to do to make me feel safe and loved.