A Bold Request to the Dragon Queen

A Bold Request to the Dragon Queen

The idea of leaving the comfort and familiarity of the Eryndor estate to join the Imperial Academy weighed heavily on Basil's mind. Sitting in his chamber, he struggled to find a way out of this situation. His pride wouldn't allow him to outright refuse his father's wishes, but he couldn't ignore the unease stirring within him. He needed a plan—something bold, something that would satisfy his need for control over the situation.

As the gears in his mind turned, a thought began to take shape. It was risky, outrageous even, but if it worked, it would ensure he entered the Academy on his terms.

With newfound determination, Basil made his way to his mother's chambers. The gentle hum of magic lingered in the air as he knocked softly on the door.

"Come in," came Lady Anarya's melodic voice.

Basil stepped inside, finding his mother seated by the window, her dragon-like features glowing softly in the evening light. Her golden eyes met his, filled with curiosity.

"Basil," she said warmly, "what brings you here?"

He hesitated for a moment, then decided to dive straight into his plan. "Mother, you were once the Dragon Queen, a ruler whose name commanded respect across the lands. Your influence is unmatched, and your legacy is one of unparalleled strength."

Anarya raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing on her lips. "Flattery, my dear son? What is it you want?"

Basil smiled faintly, knowing his mother saw right through him. "I'm expected to join the Imperial Academy in a month. Father announced it at dinner earlier."

"And you're not thrilled about it," she guessed, folding her hands in her lap.

"Not exactly," he admitted. "But if I'm going, I want to do it in a way that reflects the strength and pride of our family. Specifically, your strength, Mother."

Anarya's eyes narrowed slightly, intrigued. "Go on."

Basil took a deep breath. "I am your son, a part of your legacy. I want to make an impression at the Academy, one that leaves no doubt about the power of the Eryndor family. What better way to do that than by arriving on a dragon? A symbol of your reign as Dragon Queen."

For a moment, there was silence. Then Anarya threw her head back and laughed, a rich, melodic sound that filled the room.

"Oh, Basil," she said, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye. "You never fail to amuse me. Do you truly think riding a dragon into the Academy is the way to show our family's strength?"

"Why not?" he countered, his tone serious. "It would be a spectacle no one could ignore. It would set me apart from the very beginning and solidify our family's reputation in the eyes of my peers."

Anarya leaned back in her chair, studying her son with a thoughtful expression. "And where, pray tell, do you intend to find a dragon willing to let you ride it?"

Basil smirked. "You're the Dragon Queen. Surely you still have connections in the Dragon Lands?"

Her golden eyes sparkled with mischief. "Connections, yes. But dragons are not so easily tamed, my dear. Even I would not presume to command one to do my bidding."

"I'm not asking for it to be easy," Basil replied. "I'm asking for a chance. A chance to show the world that I am your son, and that the blood of dragons runs through my veins."

Anarya's expression softened, and she rose from her chair, approaching her son. Placing a hand on his shoulder, she said, "You're serious about this, aren't you?"

"I am," he said firmly.

She regarded him for a long moment, then smiled. "If you can convince a dragon to let you ride it, I won't stand in your way. But be warned, Basil: this will not be an easy task. Dragons are proud and independent creatures. They will test you in ways you cannot imagine."

"I wouldn't expect anything less," he said, determination blazing in his eyes.

Anarya chuckled, shaking her head. "Very well, my son. I will arrange for you to visit the Dragon Lands. But remember: this is your challenge to overcome. Prove to me, and to the dragons, that you are worthy of such an honor."

Basil bowed his head. "Thank you, Mother. I won't let you down."

As he left her chambers, a sense of purpose filled him. The path ahead would be perilous, but if he succeeded, he would not only secure his place at the Academy but also carve his name into legend.

For now, though, he needed to prepare—both for the journey to the Dragon Lands and for the trials that awaited him there.