Cherreads

Chapter 60 - discussion

The warm sunlight streaming through the windows awakened me. I stretched, feeling a bit stiff from the unexpected nap. Thyriatrix lay beside me, her eyes closed, her chest rising and falling with each gentle breath.

As I sat up, Thyriatrix stirred, opening her eyes. "Good morning, Aetherius," she said softly, a hint of a smile on her lips.

I smiled back, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. "Good morning, Thyriatrix. How are you feeling today?"

Thyriatrix stretched, her wings unfolding from her back. "I'm feeling a bit better, thank you for asking. The rest did me good."

I nodded, relieved. "I'm glad to hear that. We should get moving soon, though. We have a lot to discuss, and I need to check on Kealith."

Thyriatrix nodded, and we both stood up, shaking off the slumber. As we walked out of the room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. What would the day bring?

Pov Tharros

I woke up under the warmth of my father's wing, feeling refreshed and ready for the day. As I stretched, his eyes opened lazily, and I smiled, feeling grateful for the comfort and security of his presence.

After a quiet moment, I slipped out from under his wing and stood up, shaking out my silver scales. He nodded, and I could sense his approval. I was growing stronger, and he knew it.

Just then, Kealith appeared, his eyes gleaming with a fierce intensity. "Tharros," he said, his voice low and urgent. "I've been thinking. We can't just sit back and wait for Kieraxys to make his move. We need to take action."

I nodded in agreement, my mind racing with the possibilities. "I've been thinking the same thing, Kealith. But what did you have in mind?"

Kealith's eyes gleamed with determination. "I think we should gather our allies and launch a preemptive strike against Kieraxys. We can't let him gain the upper hand."

I considered his words, weighing the pros and cons. It was a bold plan, but it might just work. "I like it," I said finally. "But we'll need to be careful. Kieraxys is still young, but he's growing fast."

Kealith's expression turned thoughtful. "I remember when I last saw you and your siblings, you were all just cubs. Now you're growing into powerful dragons. And Kieraxys... I've never met him before, but I've heard rumors about his abilities."

I nodded, my heart swelling with pride. "We'll need to be strategic if we're going to take him down."

Kealith nodded, a fierce grin spreading across his face. "I'm counting on it."

Kealith smiled. "And also, wow, you are quite robust the last time I saw you in the starlight gathering where you spent most of the event hiding under your father wing because you are scared from other big dragons and when he folded his wing you ran and almost get lose by it!" He giggled

I chuckled, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Hey, I was only 2 years old back then! I was just a scared little hatchling. But I'm not that hatchling anymore." I puffed out my chest, trying to look as dignified as possible. "I'm a strong and powerful dragon now."

Kealith laughed, clearly amused by the memory. "I'm glad to see you've grown so much, Tharros. But I have to admit, that was a pretty adorable moment."

I rolled my eyes, grinning. "Yeah, yeah. Just remember, I'm not that little hatchling anymore. I'm a force to be reckoned with."

My father sighed. "He is still that same afraid hatchling! You literally saw him come out under my wing after he woke up from his sleep!"

I blushed, feeling embarrassed. "Father, stop! That's not the point!" I protested, trying to defend myself.

Kealith burst out laughing. "Haha, I think your father has a point, Tharros! You're still a bit of a scaredy-cat, aren't you?"

I glared at Kealith, trying to maintain my dignity. "I am not a scaredy-cat! I'm just... cautious. Yeah, that's it."

But I know I'm still a scaredy cat most of the time, and it is because father wings has always been my safe haven when I was 1 day old

Father smiled. "My wing has always been his safe haven he always feels calm and comfortable and safe when he is hiding in there!"

I felt my face grow hot with embarrassment, but at the same time, I couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort and security. I thought to myself, 'It's true, Father's wing has always been my happy place.'

I felt overwhelmed embarrassment, and I had a feeling going back under Father Wing again

I took a step back, feeling my eyes darting towards Father's wing. It was as if my body was instinctively seeking the comfort and security of that familiar haven. Father's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled, and he stretched out his wing, inviting me to come closer.

I hesitated for a moment, feeling a mix of emotions: embarrassment, comfort, and a deep-seated desire for security. Then, without thinking, I slipped under Father's wing, feeling the familiar warmth and protection envelop me. I let out a deep sigh, feeling my tension melt away. Father wrapped his wing around me, holding me close. "It's okay, Tharros," he whispered. "You're safe."

Kealith giggled by seeing this

Kealith's giggles turned into a full-blown laugh, and he doubled over, holding his sides. "Oh, Tharros! You're still a daddy's boy, aren't you?" he teased, chuckling.

I nodded

Pov Aetherius

I smiled warmly, watching my son Tharros snuggle deeper under my wing. I could sense his embarrassment, but I also knew that he felt safe and comforted here. I wrapped my wing tighter around him, holding him close. "Don't tease him too much, Kealith," I said with a gentle rumble. "Everyone needs a little comfort and security sometimes."

Kealith chuckled and nodded, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I'm just joking, Aetherius. I know Tharros is a tough dragon." He grinned at Tharros, who was still hiding under my wing. "But it's nice to see him showing his softer side."

I nodded, feeling a sense of pride and love for my son. "Yes, Tharros may be a strong and powerful dragon, but he's also still a young dragon who needs guidance and protection." I looked down at Tharros, who was peeking out from under my wing. "And I'll always be here to provide that for him."

Tharros smiled, looking relieved, and snuggled deeper under my wing. I could sense his gratitude and love, and I felt my heart swell with emotion. Being a father was the most rewarding thing I had ever experienced, and I was grateful for every moment I got to spend with my son.

I smiled. "He will always be my little boy that I would protect and keep him alive as possible!"

My voice was filled with conviction and love, and I could feel Tharros's heart swell with emotion as he heard my words. He peeked out from under my wing, his eyes shining with tears, and I could sense his deep gratitude and love for me.

Kealith smiled warmly, his eyes misting over with emotion. "That's the most beautiful thing I've ever heard, Aetherius," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "You're an amazing father, and Tharros is lucky to have you."

I felt a surge of pride and happiness at Kealith's words, and I wrapped my wing tighter around Tharros, holding him close. "I'm the lucky one," I said, smiling. "I get to be Tharros's father and watch him grow into a strong and powerful dragon."

Pov Tharros

I felt a lump form in my throat as I listened to Father's words. He was always so protective and caring, and it made me feel safe and loved. I peeked out from under his wing, looking up at him with tears in my eyes.

"Father..." I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion. I didn't know what to say, but I wanted him to know how much I appreciated him.

Father's eyes softened, and he smiled, his voice filled with warmth. "I love you, Tharros," he said, wrapping his wing tighter around me. "Always remember that, no matter what happens."

I nodded, feeling a sense of comfort and security wash over me. I knew that Father would always be there for me, no matter what.

Father chuckled. "I would willing sacrifice your well-being and mental health to keep you safe and protected because I love you, son!" I sighed, not even felt afraid he sometimes said that when his love towards me is overfull

Pov Aetherius

I chuckled, watching Tharros's reaction. I knew my words often came out more forcefully than I intended, but I couldn't help it. As a father, it was my instinct to protect my son at all costs.

I looked at Tharros, seeing the familiar mix of exasperation and affection on his face. I smiled, feeling a warmth in my chest. "I know it sounds extreme, son," I said, "but I just want what's best for you. And if that means sacrificing a little bit of your independence or freedom, so be it."

Tharros rolled his eyes good-naturedly, and I could sense his amusement. He knew I was just trying to protect him, even if my methods were a bit...unorthodox. I smiled, feeling grateful for the special bond we shared. Being a father was the most rewarding thing I'd ever experienced, and I was grateful for every moment I got to spend with Tharros.

Kealith looked at me in shock on that I would sacrifice his well-being and mental health for his safety

Kealith's eyes widened in alarm, and he took a step back, looking at me as if I had just grown an extra head. "Aetherius, what...? You can't be serious," he stammered, his voice laced with concern. "Tharros's well-being and mental health are just as important as his physical safety."

I raised an eyebrow, slightly taken aback by Kealith's strong reaction. "Of course, I'm serious," I said, my voice firm but calm. "As a father, it's my duty to protect my son, no matter what it takes."

Kealith shook his head, looking at me with a mixture of confusion and worry. "But at what cost, Aetherius? Tharros's happiness and mental health are crucial to his overall well-being. You can't just sacrifice those things for the sake of physical safety."

I sighed. "So what?! I'm so he won't hate me for it in the future, and I'm sure he will not hate me!"

Kealith's expression turned from concern to shock, and he took another step back, his eyes wide with alarm. "Aetherius, that's...that's not how it works," he stammered. "Tharros's feelings and well-being can't be guaranteed, no matter how hard you try to protect him. And sacrificing his mental health for the sake of physical safety is not worth it."

I frowned, feeling a surge of defensiveness. "You don't understand, Kealith," I said, my voice rising. "I'm doing this because I love Tharros, and I want what's best for him."

Tharros, who had been quietly observing the conversation, suddenly spoke up. "Father, I think Kealith has a point," he said, his voice soft but firm. "I appreciate your love and protection, but I don't want you to sacrifice my happiness and well-being for the sake of safety."

I look at Tharros. "So what?!"

Tharros's eyes dropped, and he looked away, a hint of sadness and frustration in his voice. "Nothing, Father. Never mind." He shrugged and fell silent, his shoulders slumping in defeat.

Kealith's expression turned stern, and he stepped forward, his voice firm. "Aetherius, that's not fair. Tharros has a right to express his feelings and concerns. You should listen to him and consider his perspective."

I felt a surge of anger and defensiveness, but Kealith's words struck a chord. I looked at Tharros, seeing the hurt and frustration in his eyes, and my expression softened. Maybe I was being too harsh, too controlling. Maybe I needed to listen to my son and trust him to make his own decisions.

Kealith took a deep breath and said "Aetherius you are my friend, alright, but I'm not like that moron varkorus that I have to clean up his damn mess all the time!"

I giggled. "I know, but he is my friend too, and I know he is your friend as well, but you don't like his antic!" Kealith nodded

Kealith nodded vigorously, a hint of exasperation in his voice. "Exactly! Varkorus can be a handful sometimes. I swear, that dragon has a talent for getting into trouble." He chuckled, shaking his head.

I laughed, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Kealith. "Yes, Varkorus can be a bit of a wild card, but that's part of his charm, right?" I smiled, thinking of my friend's antics.

Kealith grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I suppose you're right. But still, I'm glad I'm not the only one who has to deal with his messes." He chuckled, shaking his head.

Tharros, who had been quietly observing the conversation, suddenly spoke up. "Hey, Father? Can we talk about something else? This conversation is starting to sound like a Varkorus-bashing session." He smiled, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

I look at Tharros "just a second. And by the way, you have a good friendship because he knows the area of Nyxoria, the West Continent, after all! Where we live." I look at Kealith

Kealith nodded thoughtfully, his eyes sparkling with understanding. "Yes, that's true. Varkorus has been a valuable guide and friend, especially when it comes to navigating the complexities of Nyxoria." He paused, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Speaking of which, Aetherius, have you given any more thought to exploring the ruins of the ancient city of Eldrador? Varkorus has been bugging me to go with him, but I'd much rather go with you and Tharros."

I smiled, intrigued by Kealith's question. "Actually, I've been thinking about that a lot lately," I said, my eyes lighting up with excitement. "The ancient city of Eldrador is said to hold many secrets and treasures. I think it would be an amazing adventure to explore it with you and Tharros."

Tharros's eyes sparkled with amusement, and he leaned back, a hint of a smile on his face. "Father, I've already been to Eldrador City with Lyriath when we were little," he said, his voice filled with nostalgia. "But I wouldn't mind going back and exploring it again with you and Kealith."

Kealith nodded "Yeah and isn't that place in a human city, and we are Western dragons and isn't that place like less then 80 years old and there are only a few human because human are near extient?"

I nodded slowly, acknowledging Kealith's words. "Yes, that's correct. Eldrador City is a human settlement, and as Western dragons, we don't typically venture into human territories. And you're right, the city is relatively young, and the human population is...scarce, to say the least." I paused, considering Kealith's points. "I suppose I got caught up in the idea of exploring a new place. But perhaps it's not the most practical or safe destination for us."

Tharros looked up at me with a big smile, his eyes shining with excitement. "I wanna see the humans, Father! And I wanna know who named Eldrador City! I like saying Eldrador City, it's fun!" He giggled, his little body wiggling with enthusiasm. "Can we go, pleeease, Father?"

I sighed "later Tharros and the last time we went there, they were scared as hell, and I think I made them even scared when I shouted a bit!"

Tharros's face fell, and he looked down, his lower lip jutting out in a pout. "Okay, Father..." he said, his voice small and disappointed. After a moment, he looked up at me with big, round eyes. "You shouted at the humans?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

Kealith's eyes met mine, and he raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in his expression. "Aetherius, you shouted at the humans?" he repeated, his voice laced with a mixture of surprise and teasing.

Kealith's expression turned puzzled, and he tilted his head to the side, his eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to process what he had just heard. He opened his mouth to ask another question, but then closed it again, seemingly unsure of how to phrase his inquiry.

Kealith's puzzled expression deepened, and he looked at Tharros, who was still snuggled under my wing, before turning his gaze back to me. The silence between us stretched out, filled only by the sound of Tharros's gentle breathing. Finally, Kealith spoke up, his voice low and measured. "Aetherius, perhaps we should discuss this further in private?"

I nodded slowly, my eyes meeting Kealith's in a silent understanding. I gently nudged Tharros, who was starting to doze off under my wing. "Tharros, why don't you go play with Lyriath for a bit? Kealith and I need to talk about something." Tharros rubbed his sleepy eyes and nodded, before scrambling out from under my wing and taking off towards the nearby clearing where Lyriath was playing.

As Tharros disappeared into the clearing, his laughter and shouts of excitement mingling with Lyriath's, I turned my attention back to Kealith. His expression was still puzzled, but there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes.

"Aetherius, what's going on?" Kealith asked, his voice low and measured. "You shouted at the humans in Eldrador City? What happened?"

I sighed, rubbing my temples with a claw. "It's a long story, Kealith. But I suppose it's better if you know. You see, when Tharros and Lyriath were little, Thyriatrix and I took them to Eldrador City. We wanted to show them the human settlement, and maybe even make some connections with the humans."

Kealith's eyes widened, and he leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Go on," he encouraged.

I took a deep breath, remembering the events of that day. "Well, things didn't exactly go as planned. The humans were scared of us, of course. They've always been wary of dragons. But Tharros...he's always been a curious one. He wanted to explore the city, and he ended up getting separated from us."

Kealith's expression turned concerned. "What happened to him?"

I shook my head, a mixture of guilt and frustration swirling in my chest. "I had to shout to get the humans' attention, to make them understand that Tharros was just a little dragon, and that he didn't mean any harm. But...I think I might have scared them even more."

Kealith nodded thoughtfully, his eyes never leaving mine. "I see," he said. "And now Tharros wants to go back to Eldrador City?"

I nodded, a hint of a smile on my face. "Yes. He's curious about the humans, and he wants to learn more about them. And...I think he wants to prove to himself that he's not scared of them."

Kealith's expression turned thoughtful, and he leaned back, his eyes gazing into the distance. "I think I understand," he said. "But Aetherius, are you sure it's a good idea to take Tharros back to Eldrador City? The humans might not be so welcoming this time around."

I frowned, unsure of what to do. Part of me wanted to protect Tharros from the humans, to keep him safe from harm. But another part of me wanted to encourage his curiosity, to let him explore the world and learn from his experiences.

I have an idea "If they ever dare to hurt or try to attack Tharros, I will burn and swallow them alive while they move around in my stomach!" I said evily, and Kealith looked at me in horror

Pov Tharros

I was playing with Lyriath in the nearby clearing, chasing each other around and laughing. But when I heard Father's voice, I stopped in my tracks. He sounded...different. Scary. I looked over at Lyriath, who was also staring in the direction of Father's voice.

I cautiously made my way back to Father, my heart beating a bit faster. When I saw Kealith's face, I knew something was wrong. He looked like he had seen a ghost.

"Father, what's wrong?" I asked, my voice shaking slightly.

Father turned to me, a strange glint in his eye. "Nothing, Tharros. I'm just discussing something with Kealith."

But I knew Father was hiding something. And when I looked up at Kealith, I saw his mouth "be careful" to me.

Pov Aetherius

I smiled and looked at Kealith. "So what do you think?"

Kealith's eyes were still wide with horror, and he looked like he was trying to process what I had just said. He took a deep breath before speaking, his voice measured. "Aetherius, I think you might want to reconsider your...approach. Threatening to burn and swallow humans alive might not be the best way to keep Tharros safe."

I chuckled, a low rumble that vibrated through my chest. "Oh, Kealith. You know me too well. I'm not going to hurt anyone...unless they hurt my family." I glanced over at Tharros, who was watching us with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "I'll do whatever it takes to keep my children safe."

Kealith's expression turned skeptical, and he raised an eyebrow. "And you think threatening to devour humans is going to keep Tharros safe?" he asked, his voice dripping with doubt.

I nodded without hesitation

Kealith's expression turned from skeptical to alarmed, and he took a step back, his eyes wide with concern. "Aetherius, I think you're letting your emotions cloud your judgment. Threats like that will only lead to more fear and hostility towards dragons. Is that really what you want?" He paused, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "What about Thyriatrix? What would she say if she knew you were making threats like that?"

Thyriatrix question behind Kealith "What do I think of what?" She questioned, and she brought Kieraxys to meet Kealith for the first time. Kieraxys copper scales gliming in the light outside

Kealith's eyes widened in surprise as Thyriatrix appeared behind him, and he turned to face her. "Ah, Thyriatrix, I was just discussing something with Aetherius," he began, but his words trailed off as he caught sight of Kieraxys.

Kealith's eyes lit up with curiosity, and he took a step forward, his gaze fixed on Kieraxys's copper scales. "Ah, this must be Kieraxys," he said, his voice filled with excitement. "I've heard so much about him."

Kieraxys, seemingly unaware of the attention, looked up at Kealith with a curious expression, his copper scales glinting in the sunlight. Thyriatrix smiled, her eyes shining with pride. "Yes, this is Kieraxys. Our little bundle of energy."

I watched the scene unfold, a warm feeling spreading through my chest. It was moments like these that reminded me of how much I loved my family, and how grateful I was to have them in my life.

I smiled "Thyriatrix do you want to know what me and Kealith were discussing?" She nodded

I took a deep breath, my smile fading slightly as I recalled the conversation. "Kealith and I were discussing the humans in Eldrador City. Tharros wants to go back and learn more about them, but I'm...concerned about Tharros safety." I glanced at Kealith, who was still watching Kieraxys with interest. "I may have made a...strong statement about what would happen if they were to harm Tharros."

Thyriatrix's expression turned serious, and she looked at me with a hint of warning in her eyes. "Aetherius, what exactly did you say?"

I answered, "I will burn their city to the ground and swallow them alive while they move around in my stomach if they dare to hurt or attack Tharros!"

Thyriatrix's eyes widened in shock, and she took a step back, her voice barely above a whisper. "Aetherius, how could you say such a thing?" She glanced at Kealith, who looked like he was about to faint, before turning her attention back to me. "You know that's not the way to protect Tharros. Threats like that will only lead to more fear and hostility towards dragons."

Kieraxys, sensing the tension, nestled closer to Thyriatrix's side, his copper scales glinting in the sunlight. Kealith, still looking pale, cleared his throat. "I-I think Thyriatrix is right, Aetherius. We need to find a better way to protect Tharros, one that doesn't involve...swallowing humans whole."

I grunted "Oh come on! What kind of hostility are you talking about Thyriatrix?!"

Thyriatrix's expression turned stern, and she folded her arms across her chest. "The kind of hostility that leads to wars, Aetherius. The kind that makes humans view us as monsters, rather than intelligent beings. You know as well as I do that our kind has been persecuted and hunted for centuries. Do you really want to give them another reason to fear and hate us?" Her voice was firm, but there was a hint of worry beneath the surface.

Kieraxys, sensing the tension, looked up at me with big, round eyes, as if pleading with me to understand. Kealith, still looking uneasy, nodded in agreement with Thyriatrix. "Aetherius, she's right. We need to think about the consequences of our actions."

I sighed. "You know humans are near extient way longer before I hatch! So what the point!"

Thyriatrix's expression softened slightly, and she took a step closer to me. "I know, Aetherius, that the demon lord's containment has allowed humans to coexist with us, despite being on the brink of extinction. But that's exactly my point - we've been given a rare gift, a chance to live alongside humans without fear of persecution. By making threats like that, you're putting our entire way of life at risk."

Kealith nodded in agreement, his eyes locked on mine. "Aetherius, think about Tharros and the other children. Do you want them to grow up in a world where humans and dragons are at odds? Where they're constantly reminded that humans are fragile and vulnerable, and that we must be careful not to harm them?"

Kieraxys, who had been quietly observing the conversation, suddenly spoke up in a small voice. "Father, I don't want to be scared all the time. I want to be able to play with the humans, and learn from them, without worrying that they'll be hurt."

I surge "look human are near extient, yes, but what can they do if they attacked us? Well, the answer is that the demon lord can freely kill them if they dare to do so. Let this help me help with their job!"

Thyriatrix's eyes narrowed, her voice taking on a stern tone. "Aetherius, that's exactly the kind of thinking that's going to get us into trouble. Just because the demon lord has contained humans and prevents them from being a threat to us, it doesn't mean we should take advantage of that. We're not predators, Aetherius. We're guardians, protectors. We should be working to maintain the balance, not exploiting it for our own gain."

Kealith shook his head, his expression disapproving. "Aetherius, you're not thinking about the long-term consequences of your actions. What happens if the demon lord's containment fails? What happens if humans begin to fight back?"

Kieraxys looked up at me, his eyes wide with concern. "Father, please don't say things like that. It scares me."

I grunted. "Oh yeah, let see then! If i can't do that."

Kealith looked at me "Aetherius you know I'm an elder. You should listen to me of this." I grunted again

Thyriatrix's eyes flashed with annoyance, and she stepped forward, her voice firm. "Aetherius, that's enough. You will not disrespect Kealith like that. He is an elder, and his wisdom and experience are invaluable. You will listen to him, and you will respect his counsel."

Kealith's expression remained calm, but his voice took on a slightly stern tone. "Aetherius, I understand that you want to protect Tharros, but there are better ways to do so. Let us work together to find a solution that does not involve threatening humans. We must consider the well-being of all, not just our own kind."

Kieraxys looked up at me, his eyes pleading. "Father, please listen to them. I don't want anything bad to happen."

I folded my claws across my chest, my scaly demeanor softening slightly as I gazed at Kieraxys. His pleading eyes struck a chord within me, and I felt my resolve begin to waver. I glanced at Thyriatrix and Kealith, their expressions firm but concerned.

"Fine," I rumbled, my deep voice a little softer. "I'll listen. But I'm not promising anything. I just want to keep Tharros safe."

Kealith's expression relaxed, and he nodded. "That's all we're asking for, Aetherius. Let us work together to find a solution."

Thyriatrix placed a gentle claw on my scaled arm, her touch warm. "We'll find a way to keep Tharros safe, Aetherius. Together."

I smiled. "If they ever dare to hurt and attack Tharros! I won't hesitate to burn and swallow them alive!"

Thyriatrix's eyes widened in alarm, and she grasped my arm, her claws gently but firmly digging into my scales. "Aetherius, no! You can't keep saying things like that. It's not the way to protect Tharros."

Kealith shook his head, his expression stern. "Aetherius, you're not listening. Threats like that will only lead to more fear and hostility towards dragons. We need to find a better way to protect Tharros."

Kieraxys looked up at me, his eyes wide with worry. "Father, please don't say things like that. It scares me."

I shook my head

Thyriatrix's grip on my claws tightened, her voice firm but worried. "Aetherius, please. You're being stubborn and unreasonable. Think about the consequences of your actions. Think about Tharros's future."

Kealith stepped forward, his eyes locked on mine. "Aetherius, as an elder, I'm telling you that this behavior is unacceptable. You need to learn to control your temper and think before you act."

Kieraxys's voice trembled as he spoke up. "Father, I don't want you to get into trouble. Please listen to them."

I snorted, a puff of smoke escaping my nostrils as I shook my head, my scales rustling with the motion. Thyriatrix's grip on my arm remained firm, her claws digging gently into my scales.

Kealith's eyes narrowed, his voice taking on a stern tone. "Aetherius, you would do well to listen to wisdom. Your temper will be your downfall if you do not learn to control it."

Kieraxys's voice trembled again, his eyes welling up with tears. "Father, please... don't make me worry about you." I shook my head again

Thyriatrix's grip on my claw tightened, her voice firm but laced with desperation. "Aetherius, stop! You're not listening. You're being reckless and impulsive. Think about your family, your friends, your entire clan. Think about the future."

Kealith's eyes blazed with a fierce inner light, his voice thundering through the air. "Aetherius, you will listen! You will control your temper and think before you act. You will not bring shame and danger to our clan."

Kieraxys's tears spilled over, his small voice shaking with fear. "Father, please... don't make me lose you."

Kealith, look at Kieraxys. "It nice to finally meet you for the first time, Kieraxys, but I have to go now!"

I nodded slowly, my expression softening as I gazed at Kieraxys. "I'll be careful, little one," I rumbled, my deep voice gentle. "I promise."

Thyriatrix's eyes lingered on mine, her expression searching. Then, seeming to find what she was looking for, she nodded. "I will leave you now, Aetherius. May our words stay with you."

Kealith nodded at me, his eyes locked on mine. "Remember, Aetherius. Reflection and wisdom are key to a long and peaceful life." With that, he turned and spread his wings, taking to the sky as he flew towards his home.

Kieraxys looked up at me, his eyes still shining with tears. "Father, I'm scared," he whispered, his small voice trembling.

Pov Tharros

I sighed while still under his wing "Father even know the demon lord, keep the human contain, and they are near extient now, and me and you will visit a human city again and I know you just want to protect me! And I do, in fact, love you, Father!"

My father's claws gently wrapped around me, his warm breath rustling my hair. "Tharros, my little one," he rumbled, his deep voice filled with emotion. "I'm sorry if I've been too overprotective. It's just that...the world can be a cruel place, especially for a half-dragon like you."

He paused, his scaly chest heaving with a deep breath. "But I promise you, Tharros, I will try to be more understanding. We will visit the human city again, and I will let you experience the world without being too restrictive."

His claws relaxed, and he gazed at me with warm, loving eyes. "And I love you too, Tharros. More than anything in this world."

Father question "did I scare you?"

I looked up at him, my eyes locking onto his. "A little," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "But I know you were just trying to protect me, Father."

My father's expression softened, and he gently nudged me with his snout. "I'm sorry, Tharros. I didn't mean to scare you. It's just...the thought of anything happening to you is unbearable to me."

He paused, his eyes searching mine. "You're my precious son, and I would do anything to keep you safe. Your mother would want me to protect you too."

Mother sighted "I know you love Tharros very much dear but Don't overdue it to the point that if Tharros go to the human city and if they hurt or attack Tharros that you would burn their city and eating them alive just don't go that far into that kind of love! Please promise me."

Father smiled. "I can't make that promise!" He laughed

I rolled my eyes, chuckling at my father's response. Mother's expression turned stern, but a hint of amusement danced in her eyes. "Aether...I mean, dear, you're not helping," she said, her voice laced with a mix of exasperation and affection.

Father's laughter grew louder, his deep rumbling voice causing the ground to vibrate. I grinned, feeling a warmth in my heart at the familiar sound. Kieraxys, who was standing beside Mother, looked up at Father with wide eyes, a smile spreading across his face.

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