A Dragon's Approval

A Dragon's Approval

Basil stood confidently before Nytheria, the towering black dragon elder in her humanoid form, her golden eyes gleaming with curiosity and a hint of challenge. Her presence was overwhelming, even for someone like Basil, who had faced countless trials.

"So, you've accepted my request," Nytheria said with a teasing smirk. "Let's see if you're truly worthy. I need to examine your cores first."

Without hesitation, Basil nodded. "Do whatever you need to."

Nytheria stepped forward and placed her hand gently on his chest. A sudden rush of energy flowed between them as her power probed his aura and mana cores. Her eyes widened in shock, and for the first time, her composed demeanor faltered.

"You…" she muttered, her voice filled with disbelief. "You have a 4-star Aura Core and a 4-star Mana Core… and your mana affinity… it's with all elements!"

The hall fell silent. Even the other dragon elders who had been watching with suspicion could feel the weight of her words. Basil stood still, watching her reaction, a smirk tugging at his lips.

Nytheria composed herself quickly, though her shock lingered in her gaze. She stepped back and crossed her arms, her smirk returning as she looked him up and down.

"Well, I knew I was something special," she said teasingly, her tone laced with sarcasm.

Basil chuckled. "Is that so? Should I start calling you 'Elder Know-It-All' now?"

In a flash, Nytheria's hand darted out, lightly smacking his shoulder. "Cheeky brat," she said, feigning annoyance. "You're under my care now. No more being your mama's boy."

Basil grinned, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Oh, but I have to flex a little. After all, my mother is the strongest dragon to ever exist. It's only natural I have something to brag about."

Nytheria's eyes narrowed, and she hit him again, a little harder this time. Yet, she said nothing further, turning away as a faint blush dusted her cheeks.

In her mind, however, a different thought echoed. You truly are special… perhaps even destined for greatness.

The other dragons in the hall looked at Nytheria with curiosity and slight awe, unsure of what had just transpired between the two. But one thing was clear—Basil had earned the interest and approval of one of the mightiest dragons in the land.

As Basil watched Nytheria's retreating form, he couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. His journey with Nytheria as his dragon companion was just beginning, and he knew it would be anything but ordinary.