The Bond Forged in Flame (91)

Aeron sighed, shaking his head as if to emphasize the absurdity of the situation. " That's the only logical explanation. One moment, no dragon. Next, a dragon shows up. "

Violet frowned, her brows furrowed in confusion. " Wait, a minute. There was a meeting? And nobody thought to tell me."

She scanned the area, as if searching for an answer in the shadows of the early morning. When the silence lingered too long, she huffed in frustration, shaking her head.

" I suppose I'm always the last to know, " she said, her voice tinged with disappointment. With his signature sarcasm, Aeron said, " Oh we definitely told you. Whether you chose to listen, well… that's another story. " 

Violet shot him a glare, crossing her arms. "Very funny, Aeron. You know I would have been there if I'd known." 

 As they looked back towards Starfania, they noticed her eyes slowly beginning to open.

" Finally, she's waking up! " exclaimed Violet, her voice ringing with excitement and immediately drawing Aeron's attention. The warm caress of the morning flame gently roused her from her slumber. Slowly, she blinked her eyes open, greeted by the sight of Atlas, still peacefully resting beside her. His long, elegant tail coiled around him like a protective embrace, and she felt a swell of gratitude knowing that her presence gave him such peace. Reaching out, she gently ran her fingers along the smooth scales of his head. Atlas stirred slightly under her touch but remained blissfully asleep, exuding a serene calm that matched the morning's tranquility. As she glanced up, she caught Aeron and Violet's gazes fixed on her. Aeron greeted Starfania with a confident smile and said, " Good morning, princess Star. "

Starfania couldn't help but smile back. With a playful tone, she said, " Good morning! And judging by your grins, it looks like you two are already up to your usual antics! "

 Without warning, Violet sprung onto Starfania's lap with a loud thud, playfully announcing her presence. Laughter immediately burst from Starfania; it was utterly impossible to feel anything but happiness when Violet was around. Aeron joined in the laughter, and together the three of them revealed this delightful and blissful moment. As Starfania turned, she was captivated by Atlas's sapphire eyes, which were gazing directly at Violet and Starfania. His tail wagged joyfully in response, perfectly capturing the sheer delight of the moment and spreading smiles to all their faces. Violet's wide-eyed fascination settled on Atlas as she asked, " Can I pet him? "

 With a nod of approval, Starfania watched as Violet tentatively reached out her hand to stroke the dragon. To their amazement, Atlas, attuned to her gentle touch, affectionately nudged her hand. His tail wagged eagerly, and his glowing eyes exuded a comforting warmth. When Violet scratched behind his ears, Atlas purred contentedly, a deep and soothing sound that echoed his complete satisfaction. He gradually relaxed under her gentle touch, his tail slowing to a stop as he closed his eyes with serene peace. Violet's eyes widened with wonder and fascination. She looked at Starfania, her curiosity brimming, and said, " I've never seen a dragon like him before. "