Starfania glanced at Atlas, who stood unwavering before Lutu, his sapphire eyes locked onto the Seraphithorn. A silent understanding seemed to pass between them–a recognition of strength, a bond not yet formed but waiting to be acknowledged. Lyam clapped his hands together with a satisfied nod. He said, " Since we've wrapped up our discussion, allow me to guide you to your living quarters. "
Exhausted from the long day, Starfania grinned. " That sounds like a plan. "
Aeron stretched his arms with a groan. " A comfortable bed sounds like a dream right now. "
" I'm with you on that one, brother. " Violet agreed, rubbing her tired eyes.
" If there are no further questions, please follow me. " Lyam said. Without hesitation, they all followed and fell in line behind him. As they moved forward, Lutu, who had been walking with regal grace, suddenly slowed his pace.
With an air of silent curiosity, he chose to match Atlas's stride. Atlas glanced at him, his sapphire eyes reflecting a flicker of surprise before settling into a quiet understanding. The two walked side by side, their steps in sync, an unspoken bond beginning to form. Following Starfania's lead, Atlas approached her, keeping close, while Lutu still kept the same pace as Atlas. Ahead, Drogo moved with swift determination, overtaking Aeron and Vi. The two exchange a glance, their curiosity piqued by the dragon's interactions. Their attention shifted to Lutu, who remained poised and observant, his sharp mind calculating everything around him. With a shared smile, Aeron and Vi fell into steps beside Lyam, embracing the journey ahead. Lutu, ever watchful, remained close behind, his presence a silent reassurance that they were not just travelers–they were a pack.
As they wandered through the Primara Nation following behind Lyam, he showed them where the village market was, and they could hear the lively chatter of the locals and the rich aroma of freshly baked goods surrounding them. Their path eventually led them to a towering mountain, its rugged facade standing like an ancient sentinel against the sky. As they approached, something unusual caught their eye–a subtly yet finely crafted doorway, expertly concealed within the stone. The sight of it piqued their curiosity, its presence hinting at secrets long hidden. Lyam stepped forward, his gaze gleaming with quiet knowledge as he reached out, unlocking the ornately adorned entrance. Aeron and Vi followed eagerly, while Drogo and Lutu lingered outside, their keen eyes scanning the doorway.
Just as Starfania was about to step inside, a loud thud echoed through the hallway. Startled, she turned around to find Atlas struggling to squeeze through the narrow entrance. His sapphire eyes flickered with determination before he huffed, out of frustration. Aeron chuckled playfully. " Looks like Atlas doesn't take ' no ' for an answer. "
Vi giggled, covering her mouth. " He's persistent, I'll give him that. "
Starfania stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Atlas's snout. Starfania said with a small smile. " How about you join the others outside instead? "
Atlas exhaled, his warm breath fanning over her as he finally relented, stepping back with reluctant grumble. Drogo, who had been observing the scene with wild amusement, let out a deep rumble that almost sounded like laughter, while Lutu stood tall, his piercing gaze locked onto Atlas, as if silently acknowledging the struggle.
However, Atlas was determined to get through that door, so he walked closer and started sniffing around. Testing to see which body parts would fit in first as he slowly breathed out some air to make him slimmer. As he turned his body just a bit and wiggled his way in, almost like a cat fitting into small places. Starfania couldn't help but chuckle at his antics.
"You're not a cat, Atlas," she teased gently, watching him navigate the tight space with a surprising grace. Drogo continued to rumble, the laughter evident in his deep voice, while Lutu shook his head, a hint of a smile crossing his usually serious face. With a determined flick of his tail, Atlas made another attempt to squeeze through the door. He pressed his great snout against the frame, assessing the fit. Starfania stepped back, giving him the room he needed, though she couldn't shake off the feeling of both admiration and amusement.
"Come on, big guy, you can do it!" She encouraged him, her voice light and playful. With a final push, Atlas managed to slot his bulk through the doorway, toppling into the hallway with a soft thud. Shaking himself off as if to shake away the embarrassment of being stuck. Once inside, Atlas paused, taking in the sights. The stair was spiraling upward, and the other watched in surprise.
Starfania watched as he took a few tentative steps, his ears perked up and alert. Slowly, he joined the fray, his earlier reluctance forgotten. After ascending the last steps of the grand staircase, they found themselves before another door. Lyam stepped forward, effortlessly pushing it open to reveal a breathtaking room bathed in warm ambient light. A luxurious space stretched before them, its grandeur undeniable. At the far end, an elegant balcony beckoned, its door flung open to showcase a sweeping panoramic view of the entire Primara Nation. They wandered in, taking in the opulence from every angle. The room radiated sophistication, adorned with tastefully arranged furniture and intricate details that spoke of both refinement and comfort.