The Dragon's Chosen

The ground trembled beneath Eira's feet as the distant roar of dragons grew louder. Dust fell from the ceiling as cracks spread along the stone walls of the royal archives.

Kael grabbed her arm. "We need to go now!"

Prince Alric's face was pale with fear, his once-calm demeanor shattered. "You brought them here," he hissed. "Do you realize what you've done?"

Eira glared at him. "The dragons aren't my enemy but you made them yours when you tried to control them."

Before Alric could respond, another roar pierced the air louder, closer. A blast of scorching heat burst through the walls, sending debris flying.

Seren pulled a dagger free, eyes sharp. "If we don't move, we're going to be buried alive."

Ryven stretched lazily, though his glowing crimson eyes betrayed his tension. "I'm guessing talking our way out isn't an option anymore?"

Eira didn't answer. She clutched the journal tighter, knowing the truth inside could change everything if they survived.

Kael took the lead, cutting down two more guards as they charged through the shattered doorway. The castle shook beneath them, screams echoing through the halls as the sky outside turned red with dragon fire.

When they reached the courtyard, Eira's breath caught in her throat.

Three massive dragons circled above, their scales gleaming like molten metal. At their center flew a dragon larger than the rest its wings casting shadows over the castle. Its eyes burned with golden fury.

"The High Dragon," Eira whispered. The leader of all dragon-kind and the one who would decide her fate.

Kael pulled her close, his sword still drawn. "If they're here, they're not just testing you. They're delivering judgment."

The High Dragon landed with a thunderous crash, sending shockwaves through the earth. Its voice rumbled through the air, ancient and unforgiving.

"Eira, Dragon's Chosen you have crossed the line. The kingdom's betrayal is known, but your power has become a threat. If you cannot control it…"

The dragon's gaze burned into her. "We will end you."

For a heartbeat, the entire courtyard fell silent.

Eira stepped forward, fire flickering at her fingertips. "I never asked for this power but I won't let you destroy me because of your fear!"

A dangerous silence followed her words. Then, the High Dragon unleashed a torrent of flame.

Kael yanked Eira aside, barely avoiding the blast as the heat scorched the air. Seren and Ryven leaped into the fray Seren's daggers flashed as she cut down approaching soldiers while Ryven's black fire clashed against the dragon's breath.

Eira's magic surged to the surface. Golden wings of flame erupted from her back as she launched herself toward the High Dragon. Her heart pounded in her chest as she met the beast's burning gaze.

"If you want me to prove myself," she shouted, "then fight me!"

The High Dragon roared in response, its claws slashing toward her. Eira blocked the strike with a shield of flame, the force sending her tumbling backward.

Kael was at her side in an instant. "Eira this is madness!"

But she couldn't stop now. If she backed down, the dragons would never trust her. And if she lost, the kingdom would destroy everything.

Summoning all her power, Eira faced the High Dragon again. "I will not be controlled. Not by the kingdom. Not by you!"

The dragon's eyes gleamed with something new interest.

"Very well, Dragon's Chosen." Its voice echoed through her mind. "Prove that you are worthy to lead us or be consumed by your own fire."

As the sky burned and the castle crumbled, Eira realized this battle wasn't just about survival.

It was about proving she was more than a pawn in the kingdom's game.

And she wouldn't lose.