Show Me Your Breath

Arthur let out a low growl, molten energy swirling around his massive claws. His tail lashed behind him, the weight of it leaving deep grooves in the volcanic ground.

"They were delicious."

The wyrm didn't flinch. Its massive eyes remained fixed on Arthur, unblinking. Then, slowly, the creature inclined its head. "... My children were too weak."

The dismissiveness in its tone sent a ripple of irritation through Arthur, but he kept his expression neutral. The wyrm's massive head shifted slightly, its glowing slits narrowing further as it leaned closer. The heat radiating from it was unbearable—at least for anyone other than Arthur.

"... You ate the Codex too."

Arthur's third eye opened instinctively, glowing faintly with its otherworldly power. He met the wyrm's gaze, his tone sharp. "And?"