The red Dragon Egg suddenly gave a sharp crack, and a fracture appeared across its shell.
As the fracture spread rapidly, the entire Dragon Egg broke apart like shattered porcelain.
With a fledgling roar, a scarlet hatchling emerged, his body as vivid as a burning flame, dazzling to behold.
The hatchling was long and sleek, with a thick silver-purple crown atop his head. Each backward-pointing spike stood distinct and gleamed coldly, already offering a glimpse of the splendor he would one day possess.
Not only that, but the edges of his wings were covered in fine golden scales. They glittered in the sunlight as though countless brilliant gold beads had been set into them.
"Chirraak~"
With a clear little roar, the hatchling freed himself completely from the Dragon Egg. He stood where he was, beating his tender wings vigorously as he surveyed his surroundings with curiosity.
His large eyes darted about, revealing a lively, mischievous spark.
Unlike the hatchlings that had emerged before him, however, this little fellow did not seem particularly affectionate toward Danyla.
When Danyla reached out joyfully to scoop him up, he refused to oblige, even hissing a vicious warning at her.
"Oh!"
"This little fellow has quite a temper!"
Flames flickered in Danyla's palm as she prepared to teach him a lesson.
Yet just as she was about to act, the little fellow ignored her altogether and crawled straight toward the charred remains of the two little dragonfolk. His movements were swift and decisive, without the slightest hesitation.
Upon reaching the charred bodies, he unceremoniously opened his mouth, bared his sharp little teeth, and bit down hard.
"These surviving Valyrian dragon breeds really are a cut above ordinary Great Dragons!"
Danyla could not help marveling as she watched the little fellow wolf down his meal.
Of