As the three of them stood in reverent silence, Atlas shifted again, a low rumble vibrating through the air. Their gaze turned back to focus on the two dragons that were still in a heated battle. With unwavering focus, Drogo launched a powerful fireball, its flames illuminating the land around them as it hurled towards Lutu. Yet, in a display of masterful agility, the Seraphithorn dragon dodged the attack with ease. Then, with a mighty stomp, Lutu caused thick branches to surge up from the earth, twisting and writhing like serpents. Drogo, quick on his paw, leaped nimbly, his powerful tail slicing through the wooden tendrils.
He landed a forceful strike on Lutu, but before he could press his advantage, a swift branch lashed out, knocking him off balance. Disoriented, Drogo struggled to regain his footing, leaving himself vulnerable. In that split second, Lutu unleashed a searing blast of flames. The attack stuck true, and Drogo collapsed, unconscious. Lutu let out a victorious roar, celebrating his triumph. Concern, Aeron rushed to Drogo's side, kneeling beside his fallen companion. Just as worry settled in, Drogo stirred, his light brown eyes flickering open to meet Aeron's gaze. Relief washed over him as he realized Drogo was alright. Lyam stepped forward, approaching the proud Seraphithorn dragon. His expression was one of admiration as he warmly said, " Exceptional job, Lutu. "
Upon hearing his master's voice, Lutu's tails started to wag with joy. With an eager stride, he sprinted toward Lyam. Lyam extended a hand, running his fingers affectionately over Lutu's head. The dragon let out a contented roar, nuzzling against his master's touch. A smile played on Lyam's lips as he said with genuine warmth, " You truly are exceptional, Lutu, my loyal friend. "
With a glance towards them, he added, " Lutu, I'd like you to meet some new people. "
Lutu's piercing gaze bore into them, filled with suspicion, as if they were wild beasts trespassing on his sacred domain. His deep brown eyes radiated distrust, and his rigid stance served as an unmistakable warning to keep their distance. The air grew heavy with tension as they hesitated, uncertain of how to proceed.
Then, to their astonishment, Atlas took a bold step forward. Without a hint of hesitation, he closed the distance between himself and Lutu, his movements fluid and fearless. The Seraphithorn dragon peered down at him, seemingly indifferent to his presence, as if Atlas was unworthy of his attention. Yet, something in Lutu's demeanor shifted ever so slightly–his rigid expression softened, betraying a flicker of intrigue. Encouraged by Atlas's boldness, Starfania and her friends step forward as well. They moved in unison, a quiet show of solidarity, hearts racing with a mix of fear and excitement. The air crackled with energy, thick with the tension of the moment. Starfania glanced at her companions, reading the determination in their eyes. Each step felt like a leap into the unknown, but they wouldn't turn back now.
" Lutu is undeniably a magnificent specimen, " Starfania said in awe. Lyam chuckled, his pride evident. " I couldn't have said it better myself. "
" Without a doubt, " Violet agreed, her voice brimming with admiration.
Suddenly, Violet tugged on Lyam's sleeve, drawing his attention. He glanced down at her, curiosity flickering across his face. Lyam said, " How can I help you? "
Violet hesitated before voicing her thoughts. " What made Lutu and Drogo fight in the first place? "
Lyam let out a soft chuckle, ruffling her hair playfully.
" Dragons are far more complex, " he said. " They battle not out of hatred but as a way to test each other's strength–to determine who among them is fit to be the alpha. "
Aeron, intrigued, leaned in. " If that's the case, then who currently holds the alpha position? "
Lyam's lips curled into a smirk as he answered, " That honor belongs to Lutu. "
Aeron's eyes widened slightly as understanding dawned on him.
" Ah, so that's why Drogo challenged him, " he mused. " That is my dragons for you. His species Draconics are known to be very prideful. "
Violet's brow furrowed as she processed this new information.
"But isn't it risky?" she asked, concerned creeping into her voice. "What if one of them gets seriously hurt?"
Lyam shrugged, his expression thoughtful. "In their world, injury is just a part of the process. They know the stakes and accept them. Only the strongest can lead."
Aeron nodded, still pondering the dynamics. "So, if they're always testing each other, does that mean they're never truly at peace?"
Lyam leaned back, the light catching the glint of mischief in his eyes. "In a sense, yes. Their fights are intense but brief. Afterward, they often settle back into a reluctant camaraderie."
Violet sighed, feeling a mix of admiration and worry. "It sounds exhausting. Always proving yourself, never really resting."
Lyam chuckled again, "That's the nature of their world. Strength and resilience are everything."
Aeron glanced at them, curiosity sparking anew. "Have you ever seen them fight?"
Lyam's smirk returned. "Oh yes, more than a few times. It's breathtaking, powerful and… chaotic. But there's a beauty in it too, a rhythm you can't help but appreciate."