Dragon Reine renaît: Sacrifice au Dragon d'Argent | Film Complet en Français

Cecilia and I were chosen by our clan to become tribute brides to the dragons. Among the dragon clans there were no females, so every 50 years, young women from the human clans were selected and offered to them. No one knew what happened to those girls after they were taken away, all anyone knew was that none of them ever returned. As for which dragon each of us would belong to, that was decided by the drawing of lots. Cecilia drew the silver scale dragon while I was given to the black dragon. When the silver scaled dragon took on human form he was breathtakingly handsome, with long silver hair and a pair of silver slit pupaled eyes.

Cecilia fell for him at first sight and willingly accepted her fate as his bride. The black dragon however, never bothered to take on human form in front of us, as if humans were not even worthy of seeing his face. Cecilia believed the silver scaled dragon would be easier to please, so she followed the arrangement without fear and became his tribute bride. But after we were taken back to the dragon sanctum, the silver scaled dragon's true nature was revealed. He had never cared for Cecilia at all, he tormented her day after day for his own amusement, and even planned to hand her over to other dragons once he grew tired of her. Cecilia was tortured to the brink of death.

As for the black dragon, he turned out to be the black dragon king himself. After I slowly earned his trust and heart, he cherished me above all others, and after I carried his eggs, he crowned me as his dragon queen. Cecilia was driven mad by jealousy. With the last of her strength, she stabbed me to death. When I opened my eyes again, I had returned to the day of the offering. Ellara, Cecilia, if either of you can form a soul bond with your assigned dragon within year, one year, you will be granted a new life, and the human clans will receive the protection of the dragons spared from the demon-born hordes. This time, Cecilia had bribed the servants and switched our lots.

She believed would please the black dragon. She stood before him with quiet triumph. I almost laughed, since she was so eager to become nothing more than a breeding vessel, then as her younger sister, I would naturally help her get exactly what she wanted. Ellara, as your elder sister, I have to protect you. Lord Silas is clearly gentler and more approachable. As long as you win his favor, our people will still have hope. The black dragon is obviously dangerous and difficult to please. And I cannot let my younger sister face that kind of danger. Let me become the black dragon's bride instead. Her expression was sincere. Every inch the very image of a devoted elder sister.

I had not expected that even after being given another life, Cecilia would still try to send me to my death. In my previous life, Cecilia had been given to Silas, the silver scaled dragon. She had gone willingly because his dragon form was magnificent and his human form was beautiful and gentle. Those silver slit poopled eyes were especially good at deceiving people, and his tender appearance made Cecilia forget that he was still a dragon, a vile and depraved silver scaled dragon. As for me, I had already lost all hope, since I was going to be offered to a dragon no matter what, it hardly mattered which one it was.

No bride had ever returned to the human clans, and from the moment I was chosen, I had already considered myself dead. Even then, Cecilia had not forgotten to mock me. I was born lucky, Alarda. Lord Silas will cherish me, and I will become the most fortunate bride of all. Yet that very night, I heard what had happened after she was taken back to the dragon sanctum. Silas had forced himself on her so violently, that she nearly died. Once he grew tired of her, he intended to give her away to his companions. As for me, after I was taken to the dragon clans, Zarek cast me into a cavern and disappeared.

When he finally returned, he was gravely injured, and in order to survive, I had no choice but to please him, tend to him, and care for him while he healed. Zarek was cold, reserved, and dangerously temperamental. Every day, I tried every possible way to get close to him, and slowly win him over. At last, after his injuries healed, I earned his trust. He told me he was willing to form a soul bond with me, and protect the human clans behind me, but only if I truly loved him, and bore his offspring. After that, Zaker and I came to care for each other sincerely. I was even willing to carry his dragon eggs.

He declared to the dragon clans and to my own people that I was his mate, and he even brought me back to the human clans, allowing me to enjoy a status I had never known before. I knew exactly what Cecilia was thinking now. She envied the love and honor I had received in my previous life. She not only wanted to take Zarek from me, but also wanted me to suffer everything she had once endured. Cecilia, you are so good to me. You truly are my dear sister. Cecilia nodded with a look of practiced sorrow, then turned and walked towards Zarek. Zarek had not taken on human form.

His massive black body was coiled beside the offering altar, and his dark gold, slit-poo-piled eyes swept over Cecilia once without a word, which was enough to be taken as silent consent. On the other side of the altar, Silas had already taken on human form. With silver hair, silver eyes, and a handsome face softened by a gentle smile, he reached his hand toward me. Come here my bride. I did not move. I knew what was hidden behind that hand. It was torture, humiliation, and the fate of being discarded once he grew tired of me. But the lots had been switched, and my fate had already been decided. I was supposed to become Silas's tribute bride.

Just as I was about to hurl myself off the cliff and end everything, the sky suddenly darkened. I looked up and saw an enormous gray-white shadow diving down from the clouds. It crashed into the center of the altar, shaking the ground so violently that cracks spread beneath its claws. Stones flew in every direction, and Silas was forced to retreat several steps, the smile vanishing from his face. It was a dragon I had never seen before. His entire body was covered in gray-white stone scales, and he was much larger than Silas. His dark gold, slit-poo-peeled eyes swept coldly over everyone present.

There were no ornate decorations on him, and his scales were covered in scars from battle, making him look like a piece of ancient rock weathered by wind, frost, and time. High Priest Alden collapsed to the ground in terror. He lowered his head, and his dark gold, slit-poo-peeled eyes settled on me. His gaze was cold and domineering, as if he were already looking at something that belonged to him. This bride belongs to me. Silas's expression changed. Corbyn, this bride was offered to me by the human clans. The Drawing of Lots has already decided it. You have no right to stow, to steal her. The Drawing of Lots. My legs trembled as I walked toward him. My name is Corbyn.

Tell me, do you want to choose that vile, silver-scale dragon, or me? At that moment, hope rose inside me for the first time. Perhaps, in the hands of this unfamiliar dragon, I might still have a chance to live. Lord Corbyn, I choose you. The moment I spoke, everyone was stunned, while Silas stared at me with a gaze cold enough to kill. Corbyn whistled sharply toward Silas, then spread his dragon wings, pulled me into his arms, and rose into the air. From the ground below, I heard Silas roar in fury. Corbyn, just wait! I will kill you! Corbyn lingered in the air for a moment, then answered him with complete seriousness. I will be waiting in my cavern. You had better actually come.

The wind roared past us as Corbyn carried me through the sky, his arms steady around me while I looked up at the sharp, emotionless line of his profile, still struggling to understand what had just happened. Why did you take me? I finally asked. He didn't look at me, his gaze fixed ahead as he answered flatly. Because that bastard Silas doesn't deserve someone like you. That's it? I frowned, studying him with suspicion. In my previous life, when Cecilia had been chosen as Silas's bride, no dragon had ever come to take her away, not a single one. For a moment, he didn't respond, and I thought I heard the faintest hint of a sigh carried away by the wind. That's it.

I didn't believe him, not even a little, but I had no intention of pushing further. As long as I hadn't become Silas's bride, then no matter the reason, I still had a chance to survive. He flew for a long time before finally descending near a secluded cavern tucked deep within the mountains. When we landed, he set me down and gestured toward the entrance. Go in. I didn't move. Instead, I looked up at him and asked quietly, Corbin? His brows drew together immediately, irritation flashing across his dark gold, slit-poopled eyes. Don't compare me to those creatures who amuse themselves by tormenting human girls! He said sharply, clearly offended. I followed him inside.

The moment we stepped into the cavern, he began pulling out everything he had stored. Piles of gold coins, clusters of glittering gemstones, anything that caught the light, and laid them out in front of me as if presenting something important. I stared at him, confused, unable to understand what he was doing. As my bribed. He said, completely serious. It's only natural that I share the things I value most with you. What? He straightened slightly, his expression turning stern as he added, But you need to remember this. You are mine. You are not allowed to leave the dragon clans. And you are absolutely not allowed to fall for another dragon. If you do.

His pupils sharpened, his voice dropping into a low threat. I'll burn you to ashes. But if you behave and stay as my bride, everything here belongs to you. I can bring you food from anywhere, anything you want to eat. And I can take you flying wherever you wish. He was smiling as he said it, smiling, and somehow that made it even more unreal. His bluntness left me momentarily dazed because nothing about this resembled what I remembered from my previous life. When I had become Zarek's bride, he had despised my presence. He was clearly irritated that a human female had been forced into his territory. Neither of us had been given a choice. He could not refuse the dragon god's will.

And I could not refuse my clans. Whenever he was in a foul mood, he would knock over the food I had carefully prepared. Or tear apart anything I had tried to arrange in his cavern, leaving chaos behind him. He left without a second thought while I lived like someone beneath even a servant. Doing everything I could just to avoid being cast aside. Corbin on the other hand had already prepared food. This feeling of being cared for felt so foreign to me. After we ate, the sky outside had long since darkened, and the cold of night began creeping into the cavern. I hesitated as I looked toward where he usually slept, realizing immediately that it wasn't a place meant for a human at all.

He simply lay across his hoard of gold and gemstones as if they were ordinary ground. Was I supposed to sleep like that too? That would be unbearably uncomfortable. While I was still debating where I should go, Corbin suddenly disappeared deeper into his hoard, returning moments later, dragging out a thick blanket. He carefully spread it across a cleared patch of ground. You are my bride, so we should sleep together. People need something to warm their hearts, don't they? Yes. This kindness, unknown in my past life, made my head spin. In his own way, he provided the safest sanctuary. Perhaps the turning point of fate lies within this warm night. Sleep together? Just like that?

Everything was moving far too fast. I wasn't ready for this. Corbin, are you serious about this? The cave is cold at night. We should share the warmth. Before I could process it, he had already slipped under the blanket. It's warm now. Come in, Ella. He was clearly intending to warm it for me first. Thank you. I'll just stay on this side. But to my surprise, exhaustion crept in almost immediately. The warmth pulled me toward sleep before I could resist. You're so small. And so fragile. I felt the blanket shift as Corbin tugged it more securely around me. His arms came around me instinctively. It was so warm. A warmth I had forgotten existed. You're my bride now.

I have to take good care of you. I can't let you get cold. You're far too weak. Dragon caverns were never warm, especially at night. In my previous life, there were nights when I was so cold. Zarek never cared if I could endure the freezing dark. Zarek, please, it's so cold. May I... Don't touch me. You're just a weak, useless human. I tried to move closer to him for warmth, only to be pushed away. The only time he allowed me near was when he needed me. But now, this warmth feels so real. Corbin is different. He doesn't look at me with disgust. Are you really this kind, or is this just another dream? For the first time in two lives, I felt safe.

The treasures in this cave are cold, but the heart of its owner is not. Sleep well, little bride. I'm here. The defense I built over a lifetime was crumbling. Maybe choosing the silent stone dragon was the best decision I ever made. You're awake already? Drink this. It will help your body stay warm. His touch no longer felt like a threat. Thank you, Corbin, for everything. A new day began, and with it, a new life I never dared to imagine. I had never thought a cold dragon's cave could be this warm. I slept so peacefully. In Corbin's clumsy but sincere care, my broken heart seems to be healing. But this peace was soon shattered by a familiar voice from outside. Zarek, I'm your bride.

Don't worry. I'll take good care of you. Cecilia, she is walking down that path after all. This feeling of being cherished. I never dared to dream of it before. I had to see for myself how the wheel of fate would turn this time. Zarek, the man of my nightmares, was standing there. Get out. You call yourself a bride? Are you trying to die? Pain is only the first gift he gives you. How can you say that? I am your bride. If you didn't want one, why did you appear at the altar? This scene is exactly like my previous life. I know you don't like me, but I truly want to take care of you. Just think of me as a human servant, alright? To survive, she's imitating my past humbleness. A servant?

Interesting. Then act like one. Never let me hear the word bride again. She succeeded, but she has fallen into the abyss. Or I will tear your throat out myself. Zarek never changes. I am the one who changed. In this life, I am no longer that lowly servant. Corbin, that silent stone dragon is my salvation. If my sister wants that glory, let her enjoy it. I will wait here for my dragon to return. Corbin, you're back. Did I wake you? I? I picked some fruit. No, I just woke up. Thank you, Corbin. The armor is cold, but my heart is warm. I'm glad you like them. They're very sweet. This simple conversation is a miracle to me. The storm continues outside, but for now I am safe.

Zarek, Cecilia, we will settle our scores later. This time, I will be the one to decide my fate. He didn't even look back. To Zarek, we are nothing but tools. I can hear his heavy footsteps fading into the darkness, leaving her in the dust. In my past life, I was the one kneeling there. Now it's her turn. Alara, you... You're still alive? If you're still alive, Cecilia, why wouldn't I be? Don't flatter yourself. Zarek won't take long before he accepts me. She thinks she knows him. She thinks she can tame the beast. As for you, you were supposed to belong to Silas. Now you've been tainted by a mere stone dragon. A mere stone dragon has given me more respect than Zarek ever gave you. Respect?

You're sleeping in a cave of rocks. You're a disgrace. You'll be dead soon enough. Silas doesn't let go of what he thinks is his. She's so certain. Because in the timeline she remembers, Zarek eventually loved me. But that wasn't love. It was an obsession that ended in blood. I will be the queen of the black dragon and you will be a corpse in the mud. Then I wish you luck, sister. You'll need every bit of it to survive his love. How dare you look at me with pity. The ground is shaking. Someone powerful is coming. Silas wouldn't dare lay a hand on my bride. Did I hear someone threatening what belongs to me? You, the stone dragon. For a moment, the coldness in his eyes completely vanished.

I don't care who Silas is. If he comes, he'll find only a grave. He's always so quiet, but when he speaks, the world listens. You think he can protect you forever? You're a traitor to your bloodline. My bloodline sold me to a monster. I owe you nothing. Leave. Now, before I lose my patience. This isn't over, Alara. Don't you dare forget your mission. Mission? What are you talking about? Are you alright? Did she hurt you? I'm fine, Corbin. She's just lost in her own delusions. I won't let anyone take you back. Not Silas. Not Zarek. For the first time, I believe someone might actually fight for me. Cecilia is playing a dangerous game, and I need to be ready for the fallout.

The storm is calming, Alara. But my mountain will stand. Whatever mission they planned, I am no one's pawn. I didn't look back. In this life, I choose my own path. Ayla, you are abandoning your mission, our family's honor. Mission? You don't even believe in that yourself, Cecilia. How dare you? It's the destiny of our bloodline. The only thing I care about is whether I get to stay alive. She seemed desperate. What mission was she talking about? It's a long story, Corbin. A story built on blood and lies. I wondered if a dragon could truly understand human suffering. Let's walk. I'll tell you about the protection we buy with our lives.

Every 50 years, humans offer tribute brides to the dragon clans. Tribute brides? For what purpose? In exchange for protection from the demon-born horde. The demon-born? They are a plague to all living things. But in reality, that so-called protection is nothing more than a lie. A lie? The Asian packs are sacred to my kind. Sacred to you, perhaps. But to us, it's a death sentence. When the demon-born attack, the dragons are always late. I never knew humans felt this way about our protection. They come at all. Most of the time, humans are left alone. Left to defend themselves with sticks and stones. Yet, they still convince themselves they're being protected. It's almost laughable, isn't it?

Ayla, I'm sorry. I didn't know. I forgot. You're a dragon. I shouldn't have said that. Please, don't be angry. You're not wrong. Most dragons are exactly like that. They hide in their caves, hoarding gold, while the world burns. I'm not. I will not be one of them. His words? They were like a warm breeze in a frozen world. Drink this. It will help you sleep. Corbin, I don't care whether you are or not. I know. You've been through so much. I just want to stay alive. That's my only mission now. Then let that be our mission. Together. For the first time, I felt something other than fear. Maybe, just maybe, I can survive this world after all. He didn't argue, nor did he try to convince me.

Instead, he simply pulled me into his arms. My bride, I won't let anything happen to you. I promise. It was a promise made without needing to be believed. But at that moment, I wanted to believe it. The world outside is cruel. But here, you are safe. His hold was firm yet careful like a silent anchor. We stayed like that for a long time in our own world. This was the last peace before the storm. A few days later, the air changed. The scent of blood drifted through the mountain air. It was sharp and unmistakable, reaching even our cavern. Zarek had been injured heavily. I knew that place too well. It was a den of nightmares. But this time, I was just a witness to their destruction.

Cecilia had been staying by his side the entire time. You look so perfect when you are quiet, my king. While he lay unconscious, she would sneak close to him. Soon your blood will belong to me, and so will your power. She was trying to provoke his heat, forcing an intimacy. Wake up, Zarek. See who is truly here for you. Yes, feel me, Zarek. I am your only bride. What a pathetic struggle for a crown of thorns. How dare you touch me. Zarek, please. I was only... When he woke, he reacted exactly as I remembered. You disgusting leech, get out of my sight. No, I am the only one who stayed. I love you. Your love is a curse. You are nothing to me. He struck her, and rejected her without hesitation.

If I could stand, I would kill you myself. Why? Why do you hate me so much? His injuries left him unable to drive her away, trapping them in a tense struggle that neither could escape. I chose a different path, and I will never look back. Because my hope is right here, beside me. I thought escaping him would end the nightmare, but the echoes of his cruelty still reach me. Zarek was a wounded beast, and a wounded beast is the most dangerous. Zarek, please. The herbs will help the internal bleeding. Get this filth away from me. Every day repeated itself, a cycle of rejection and obsession. Do you think a few weeds can heal a dragon's pride? Aye. I will go back to the mountains.

I will gather more. She would return to the peaks, even when her own wounds hadn't closed. You are thinking about them again. I can feel the darkness spreading, Corbin. It's like a poison. She thought devotion could buy his heart. You need to eat to regain your strength, my lord. I told you to stay out of my sight. Then I will cook again, until you accept it. Why are you so persistent? You're nothing but a parasite. Because I am the only one who stayed. She called it love. I called it a death sentence. The heat is burning from within. And then came the moment where pride died completely. I can help you, Zarek. I can ease the pain. You? You are shameless. Call me whatever you want.

Just let me be the one. You disgust me more than the wound itself. Even a disgusted dragon needs a way to vent his fire. The black dragon's aura is unstable. He is losing control. She's throwing herself into the abyss, thinking she can fly. Do you really want this to be a mere tool for a beast? If it means I am yours, yes. In my past life, I was the one in that darkness. Now I watch her choose it. You are safe here, Ayala. His shadow cannot reach you. I know, but the storm is coming for everyone. There is no hope in a heart built on plunder and violence. Let them destroy each other. We have a miracle to protect. The real hope is yet to be born. Just as I expected, Zarek finally accepted her.

By the time his injuries were nearly healed, he no longer rejected her presence. Zarek, I've brought the medicine. Please, let me tend to you. You? You're letting me stay? You've proven your persistence, Cecilia. Don't make me regret it. He allowed her to remain by his side, as though she already belonged there. Not long after, he took her. She was so exhausted that she couldn't even get out of bed for three days. It was worth it. Everything I suffered. It was finally worth it. When she finally recovered, she insisted on coming to see me. Zarek supported her as if he were gentle and attentive. As though none of his earlier cruelty had ever existed. Alara, look at me.

Do you see the difference now? Zarek has accepted me. It won't be long before I'm carrying his child. I'll become the pride of the human clans, the mother of the next black dragon. And you? You're nothing more than a woman taken by a savage dragon. No one will ever want you. You are a disgrace to our bloodline. If that is what you need to believe to sleep at night, then so be it. You're just jealous. You're rotting here in the dust while I rise. Calm yourself, Cecilia. We shouldn't expect her to understand greatness. I looked at Zarek. The expression on his face. The controlled calm. It was all exactly the same as before. Zarek didn't change. He calculated every move, every touch.

He was playing a game. If he had accepted Cecilia, then he had made a deal. We will be leaving now. Try not to be too lonely, Alara. Goodbye, little sister. Try not to get buried in the rocks. Her words had no weight for me. They were just noise. Are you all right? Their presence always brings a storm. I've never been better, Corbin. I'm finally seeing the truth clearly. I had already decided I would never return to the human clans. And knowing him, that deal could only be about one thing. Power. Let them have their throne of lies. I have found something real here. Truth that Zarek will never understand. The game of survival has only just begun. And this time, I won't be the one to burn.

If I wasn't mistaken, the condition was simple. He needed an heir, a female hatchling. Cecilia would only give him male offspring. Again and again. Enough. This place reeks. We're leaving. I met his gaze briefly and saw it clearly. Not affection, not warmth, only irritation and calculation. All right. Let's go before my dear sister stares at you long enough to fall in love. I might get jealous. Cecilia either couldn't see it or chose not to. Zarek, you're too good to me. Even a Lara won't be able to resist you. I have no interest in her. Don't look so miserable, sister. It's unsightly. She has no idea she's just a pawn in his game. Which meant she was already walking toward her own end.

The silence that followed was heavy with the stench of betrayal. I turned back to the shadows, the only place I felt safe. The fire was small, but it was real. Not like Zarek's hollow promises. I had to be ready for the storm that was coming. Corbin's arrival was like a breath of fresh air after a suffocating fog. What did they want? Zarek isn't the type to show up without a reason. They came to show off. Show off? Yes. Cecilia wanted me to know that Zarek has accepted her. And that she'll soon be carrying his child. I could see the weight of my words settling on his shoulders. A child of the black dragon? This changes everything. It changes nothing for us, Corbin.

We already knew Zarek's greed knows no bounds. But the air. Zarek will be more dangerous than ever. A female air is what he wants, but he will never get it. Cecilia is walking into a trap of her own making. I trust your insight, Ellara. Whatever happens, I will protect you from the storm. For the first time, I wasn't facing the future alone. In this quiet territory, I thought I knew Corbin. But some questions change everything. He looked awkward. A faint flush crept across his face. Do you want one too? What? A child. Like what Cecilia expects. No, I don't want to have children. It hurts. I don't want that pain again. I see. I didn't mean to. He didn't push.

He just committed my answer to memory. Over the next few days, Corbin changed. You're leaving early again? Rest, Ella. I'll be back after dark. He never explained where he went or what he was doing. There was a quiet sense of purpose in his movements that I couldn't quite place. But it wasn't just Corbin. Someone else was missing. Cecilia. Someone like her thrives on showing off even the smallest advantage. Yet, I hadn't seen her at all. It was strange. She would never miss a chance to mock me unless... Unless she simply couldn't come. Zarek must have been keeping her constantly occupied. To the point where she couldn't even walk properly. That is the price of your favor, sister.

Thank you, Eja. He's hiding something. Something big. Corbin, what is happening out there? Tell me the truth. The balance of the Dragon Realm is shifting, Ella. I am making sure that when the storm hits, you are safe. Even if I don't give you an air? Especially because I only want you. In the darkness of the Dragon World, he is the only light I trust. She will bear my mark. No one escapes the shadow. The game has just begun. I will protect my destiny. Corbin has been disappearing into the shadows for several nights now. I tried to find answers in the silence, but instead I found an unwelcome guest. The sound of silk dragging against stone. A sound I knew too well. Cecilia.

She had crossed the desolate paths just to find me. Half a month later, she finally appeared. The moment I saw her, I understood everything. Lara, you look so miserable in this damp hole. I see you've brought Zarek's curse with you. Curse? No, this is my triumph. It won't be long before I give birth to Zarek's child. You have no idea what kind of monster you are carrying. Zarek told me that once the baby is born, he'll ask the Dragon God for greater protection. He will grant our people the ultimate blessing through this child. Zarek only uses people. He doesn't know the meaning of protection. You're just jealous because you're stuck with a silent rock.

And after that, he's going to return to the human world with me. We'll live there together, away from this desolate wasteland. I will be the queen of the Golden Castle once again. Everyone who looked down on us will kneel at my feet. You are living in a dream, Cecilia, a dream built on blood. You're just bitter, you have nothing, while I have everything. I have my freedom, you have a parasite that will consume you. How dare you? This child is a blessing from the Dragon God. The Dragon God? Zarek doesn't even believe in the gods. He loves me, he will do anything for our future. Then why are you here, Cecilia? Why do you need my validation?

She was speechless, her eyes darting around like a trapped animal. I came to show you what you lost, stay here and rot with your stone dragon. She left as quickly as she came, leaving only the stench of desperation behind. She is walking straight into her own destruction. But Zarek's move is faster than I expected. The shadow is already here. The fire flickered, sensing the darkness that Zarek's bloodline brought into this room. Corbin, where are you? I need to know what you found. I won't let the tragedy of my past life repeat itself. The real battle for survival has just begun. The storm is coming and this time I will be the one standing when it clears.

I watched her draped in gold and lies, unaware that her so-called blessing was a death sentence. Look at this. Zarek has given me more gold than our father ever saw in his entire life. Is that so? Cecilia, I truly envy you. Once the child is born, Zarek will take me back to the human world as his queen. I knew better. Zarek never intended to fulfill that promise. You will be stuck here with your silent stone dragon while I rule the world again. Then why wait? If he loves you so much, why hasn't he taken you back to see our family already? Because the dragon god must grant permission. Only Zarek is powerful enough to ask.

The idea that Zarek would willingly settle in a human village was absurd. Then why wait until after the child is born? Corbin, what are you doing in Zarek's territory? Lara, if you want to go back, I can take you to the human world right now. That is a lie. Zarek said only he has the privilege. If you miss your family that much, why hasn't Zarek taken you back to see them? He said it is for my protection. The dragon god is strict. The dragon god allows any dragon with a human bride to move freely between the world. Her pride cracked, replaced by something dangerously close to panic. You are lying. You are just jealous of my black dragon child. I have no reason to lie.

Zarek simply has no desire to set foot in a human village. He finds us disgusting, Cecilia. Even the one carrying his seat is nothing but a tool. No, he loves me. These treasures prove it. They must. These are just cold stones to him. A small price to keep your mouth shut. We are leaving. This place reeks of rot and deceit. Wait, Corbin. Tell me you are lying. Tell me I am special. Ask your master yourself if you dare to face the truth. I wondered what expression she would wear when her entire world finally collapsed. The world I remembered was waiting, but it was never meant for her. It can't be. It can't be true. Zarek loves me. Goodbye, sister. Enjoy your golden cage.

Do you truly wish to return to the humans, Ilara? Not yet. I want to see the world you promised me first. Then hold on tight. We have much to do before the storm arrives. For the first time, I felt the wind of freedom leaving the dragon's lies behind. I could see the cracks forming, not just in the ground, but in the lies Cecilia clung to. What are you implying? You are just a brute who stole a bride at the ceremony. Don't try to drive a wedge between me and Zarek. Words are the shield of the weak. How dare you look at me like that? Zarek will have your head for this. We are leaving. Where are we going, Corbin? To the boundary. To see what lies beyond the lies.

He didn't wait for her next insult. He chose a world where her voice didn't matter. Hold on tight, Ella. The wind will be fierce. The wind? It is so strong. Lean to me, Ella. I have got you. He was so careful. Every tilt of his wings, every shift in speed. It was all for me. You are doing this on purpose, aren't you? Making it smooth for me? A dragon protects his heart. Zarek never flew like this with Cecilia. He treated her like cargo. Because to him, she is. It is beautiful yet terrifying. The end of one world and the start of another. Thank you. I... I didn't feel sick at all. Good. You will need your strength for what is coming. He is here. Stay behind me.

You fly fast for a stone dragon, Corbin. You fly recklessly for a king. Zarek. In my past life, I was the one retching under the weight of a black dragon's cruelty. Cecilia, are you all right? You look pale. I am... I am fine. Just the altitude. But I saw it. The flicker of pure disgust in his eyes. He was annoyed by her weakness. Don't look at me like that, Ella. I told you. I am fine. You are trembling, Cecilia. Your body is rejecting something. The baby is a black dragon. It is stronger than anything you can imagine. Strength should not cost the mother her life. What you have is a death sentence, Cecilia. You just haven't read the verdict yet. The lines were drawn.

On one side, a dying lie. On the other, a terrifying truth. The wind here is cold, but the chains of my past life were colder. Zarek is taking me back as well. He was only waiting because flying would have been too hard on me. I said nothing. There was no need to argue with the ghost of my former self. He wants me to have the best life possible in the dragon's sanctum. Can your stone dragon give you that? She would understand that the cost of realization is far greater than any words. Do you want to go back? I froze. In my previous life, Zarek never gave me the choice. Yes, more than anything. Then, we shall go. I didn't look back. Her world was ending, but mine was just beginning.

Take me home, Corbin. The roar of the wind was the most beautiful music I had ever heard. Are you all right up there? I've never been better, thank you, Corbin. Hold on tight. We are crossing the border. He let me ride on his back, trusting me to hold on, trusting me not to fall. For the first time, I am the master of my own destiny. You are different from them, aren't you? There it is. The world I thought I would never see again. We are almost there, Ella. Welcome back. I am coming back to take what is mine. And this time, I have a true ally by my side. Returning to Valehaven wasn't the homecoming I expected. To them, I was just a stain on their honor. In their eyes, I wasn't a survivor.

I was the bride stolen from the sacred ceremony. You dare show your face here after shaming our entire clan, Ella? She is my mate. Watch your tongue, old man, or I might forget we are in your village. A thief and a disgrace. Get out of my sight. Go to the ruins at the edge of the woods. Let it be, Corbin. Their ignorance isn't worth your strength. We have what we came for. Don't expect a single drop of water from us. You are dead to this clan. Keep your water, Marlow. Soon you'll be begging for mercy instead. While I was cast out, Cecilia lived like a queen in the heart of the village. More wine. And make sure it's chilled this time, you useless girl. Of course, Holy One.

Anything for the mother of the black dragon's heir. Zarek smelling of death and sulfur, carrying a gift that cost him dearly. Cecilia, I have brought you a gift from the edge of the world, the dragon blood fruit. You truly are the only one who understands my worth, Zarek. This child will be a god. Eat. It will make our child strong enough to tear through anything, including you. Do you see this? I am the future of this world. Bow lower, you worms. You are the vessel for my legacy. Nothing less than the best for you, my dear. Our new home was a pile of stones and broken dreams, far from the warmth of the fire. I will make this place safe for you, Ella. I promise. No one will hurt you here.

They think they've won, Corbin. They have no idea that the blessing they celebrate is a death sentence. Does it hurt? Seeing them treat her like a goddess while you are cast out? No. I feel pity. Cecilia is dancing on the edge of a volcano, and she's enjoying the view. As long as I'm here, no dragon or man will touch you. I am your shield. I know. That's why I chose you over the tyrant. You are the only truth in this village of lies. Look at me. I am the future of this clan. Every woman in Valehaven envies me. Please, my lady. The dress is too tight for the ceremony. I didn't mean to. Then make it fit. Do I look like I care about your pathetic excuses? Power hasn't changed you, Cecilia.

It only made you louder and more desperate. The beggar returns. Come to ask for scraps from my table. Or maybe you want a real roof. I came to see if you're still breathing. That dragon blood fruit has a heavy price, sister. Jealousy is such an ugly look on you, Ella. Zarek adores me. He risks his life for me. Cecilia, once the child is out, what's left of you? Just a hollow shell. Shut up. You're lying, guards. Throw this trash out of my palace. Look in the mirror, Cecilia. Your skin is turning as gray as the abyss. The end is coming. The countdown to her destruction has already begun. And I will be there to see it fall. Inverhaven power is a lethal illusion and my home is drowning in it.

Cecilia has lost her mind, believing she is a goddess just because she carries a dragon's seed. Inside these walls the air is thick with her arrogance and the scent of rotting fruit. Zarek brings me the finest treasures, yet you serve me this? It's sour. Are you trying to poison me and my child? Who allowed you to bring me something this awful? Answer me. I am the woman Zarek loves and I am carrying the future of the black dragon. If anything happens to me, your worthless life won't even be enough to pay for it. Get out of my sight before I change my mind about letting you live. She thinks she is untouchable, but she is merely a gilded cage for Zarek's prize. I deserve better.

I deserve everything. I watch from the shadows recording every sin. The storm is coming. Zarek is here. I can feel the coldness of the abyss following him. The black dragon lord doesn't care for justice, only for his vessel's comfort. Zarek, look. He tried to poison me with that foul fruit. If she says you are guilty, then you are. No explanations needed. Your life is forfeited. That's what happens when you cross me. Are you satisfied now, Cecilia? Yes, my lord. But I want more. I want the whole world to bow. He feeds her greed with gold and blood, ensuring the container remains happy. Look at all this. It's all mine. Will you bring me more, Zarek? More than what Aayla ever had?

As long as you remain obedient, all of this is yours. Everything in Verhaven is your toy. Do not disappoint me. She is enjoying the feast before the slaughter. Poor Cecilia. The fruit is ripening, and soon the harvest will begin. Cecilia didn't just want to show off. She wanted to crush me with her happiness. Careful with those. They are more valuable than this entire house. I looked at her, and all I saw was a puppet dancing on Zarek's strings. Zarek loves me too much. He is so afraid I will get bored. He keeps finding these interesting things for me from different places. My room is already too full to hold them all, so I thought I would give you some.

She thought these trinkets would make me jealous. Elara, if not for me, you probably would never see treasures like these. Consider it a sister's charity. You need it more than I do. Life time? I have seen better piles of gold in Corbin's trash corner. Corbin's cavern was overflowing with ancient artifacts. Corbin, we need to clear this out. It's taking up too much space. If you don't like them, throw them away. They're just stones. Corbin liked gold coins more. They were more practical anyway. Maybe I could take these to town and exchange them for gold coins. At least they didn't take up as much room. Don't touch them. Before I could react, a wave of intense heat swept past me.

What are you doing? You monster. Those were Zarek's gifts. He didn't just burn them. He erased them. Corbin, why did you burn them? We could have used that gold. They carry the scent of a cursed dragon. A cursed dragon? Zara covered those treasures with a cursed dragon splite. Anyone who accepts them will be slowly poisoned. A gift? No, it was a death sentence wrapped in silk. No, Zarek wouldn't. He loves me. He said I was his queen. He loves his offspring. You are just disposable containers to him. He wasn't just trying to kill me, Cecilia. He was marking your territory with death. Shut up. You're just jealous. You're lying because you have nothing. We are leaving. This place reeks of rock.

Tell your... Lord Zarek. His cheap tricks won't work here. Corbin hadn't been here, I would have brought that curse into our sanctuary. She is living in a golden cage built of poison, and she calls it grace. The treasures of the black dragon are nothing but ash. Thank you, Corbin, for seeing what I couldn't. But this time, I am not the one who will burn. The truth Corbin revealed that night was more terrifying than any nightmare. Then, Cecilia, what will happen to her? Her body is already failing. Why do you think her temper has been getting worse? A cursed dragon splite eats away at the mind. It shortens the life of whoever carries it. She won't live long if this continues. I said nothing.

The weight of the secret felt like lead. It's just Zarek's twisted amusement. I told you before, he isn't a good dragon. And you're not allowed to compare me to him. I wasn't, truly. In that cold cave, his hand was the only warmth I had. Corbin, thank you. Thank you for saving me. We spent half a month in the human lands. A brief moment of peace. But we both knew this tranquility wouldn't last. Then Zarek came. He came to reclaim his prize. Cecilia's belly had grown visibly heavy, a burden of blood. It is time to lay the eggs in the dragon's sanctum. I will be the mother of the greatest dragon. He used the sanctum as an excuse to trap her forever.

The entire clan fell into a state of blind anticipation. When the child is born, the balance of power will shift. Everyone was waiting for the child she carried. You should be our next clan leader, my lady. They acted as if the outcome had already been decided. Enjoy your glory while it lasts, my little container. As for Corbin and me, we were ghosts in their feast. No one cared when we left and no one cared when we returned. We are the only ones who see the coming storm. Let them drown in their own greed. We have our own path. The blood of the black dragon is already reaching for them. The bloody sacrifice is about to begin. A storm is gathering over Haven and no one will be spared.

We had already been excluded from his world. That very night, Cecilia went into labor. Zarek didn't wait. He shifted into his true form immediately. His massive body coiled protectively and but not for her. He was dominating everything, like a king guarding his loot. Corbin and I stood outside, neither of us stepping in. It sounds... agonizing. Should we do something? No, we wait. We wait for the inevitable. Cecilia's screams echoed through the cavern, sharp and desperate. Listening to them, I couldn't help but remember. In my previous life, it was exactly the same. Zarek didn't even consider finding help. He didn't understand that human births required assistance.

To him, my pain had never mattered. The night dragged on. Only near midnight did the screams finally begin to fade. It sounded as though she had nothing left. As expected, Cecilia laid three eggs. Zarek would now take over the incubation himself. What he wanted had never changed. He needed a female hatchling. He needed power. I don't understand. I thought she'd die from the strain. Instead, she gave him three eggs. And he's guarding them. Don't tell me Zarek actually fell for her. Love? You think that's love? No, Zarek would never love Cecilia. The only thing he has ever cared about is the power granted by the dragon god. But the eggs, they are hers too. Doesn't that count?

To him, she was just the soil. Now that the seeds are sown, the soil is useless. You speak as if you've seen this ending before. I have, and it's much bloodier than you imagine. Corbin was confused, unable to follow my words. But he would understand soon enough. Everyone will understand soon enough. The end is already written in blood. When Cecilia regained consciousness, she found herself in Zarek's ruin. She learned she had laid three eggs, the price of her ambition. Despite her weakened state, she forced herself out of bed. I must show her. I must show Alara my victory. She came all the way to my cavern, just to show off.

She dragged her dying body through the barren cliffs, driven by a vanity more toxic than any dragon's breath. You will see, Alara. You will finally see who is the superior one. I was waiting for her. I knew this moment would come. She looked like a ghost, haunting her own past. Alara, look at me. I've given Zarek three eggs, three future kings. Once they hatch, he'll take me back to the human clans. I'll become the clan leader. I'll have power beyond your imagination. And you? You're nothing but a woman taken by another dragon. We shouldn't even be called sisters anymore. The next time you see me, you should bow. I didn't bother arguing. There was no point.

Why waste time on someone standing at the edge of death? Wait until the day you actually become clan leader. Wait until then before you say things like that. Besides, I'm no longer the person I used to be. The moment I was pushed as an offering, that version of me died. You're the only one still clinging to the idea of going back. And tell me, are you really certain you'll be able to return? Do you truly believe Zarek will take you back? I saw the doubt flicker in her eyes, though she fought it. Wake up, Cecilia. Don't say I didn't warn you. Shut up. You know nothing. You're just jealous. He loves me. I am his queen. I will rule. Her anger was a mask for her growing terror.

She was drowning in her own delusions. You will rot in this cave while I sit on the throne. Then go. Go back to your master. Go and see what fate awaits the mother of his eggs. She ran away from the truth, back into the abyss. The crown she worshipped was already broken. The final act of her tragedy has just begun. Being taken by that stone dragon must be miserable, isn't it? No one welcomes you back home. And even here, no one respects you. But don't worry, once I become clan leader, I'll remember that we were sisters. I'll have Zarek speak to Silas for you. Maybe he'll take you back and put everything where it belongs. So that was it. Even now she still wanted to send me back.

Back to Silas. Back to that life worse than death. Thank you for your concern. That night I thought I could finally escape the shadows. Corbin's warmth was the only thing pulling me under into a peaceful sleep. For a moment the world was quiet. But peace is a fragile thing in Verhaven. She spent those days intoxicated by a lie. I will soon stand above everyone else. This clan will finally have a leader they deserve. And my child will inherit everything. Zarek loves me. He needs me. Look at me, Ayla. Soon everyone will kneel before me. I am the mother of the future clan leader. You are just a shadow. You're chasing a ghost, Cecilia. It will consume you. You're just jealous of my glory.

She failed to notice how Zarek's eyes had changed. For half a month he was obsessed with one thing. Almost. My legacy's almost here. Zarek, let me in. We should celebrate together. You have done your part, Cecilia. Now stay out. She repeated her triumph until even she believed it. He's just tired. He'll come back to me. I am the chosen one. No, Zarek, what are you doing? Let me go. The eggs need the strength of the mother to break the shell. No, I am your queen. You can't do this to me. You were a vessel. Nothing more. Ayla, help me. I warned her. I tried to save her in another life. But she chose the path of blood. He's not just hatching eggs. He's consuming her. We cannot wait any longer.

We must end this. I know. The nightmare ends tonight. Then, let us face the darkness together. Ayla. Zarek thinks he's winning. But he's forgotten one thing. I've seen this ending before. And this time, I'm the one holding the blade. The air in the cave was thick with the scent of sulfur and death. Zarek remained in his true form. A silent mountain of shadow. Ilara, watch carefully. Witness the beginning of my true future. She insisted I be here. She wanted me to witness her triumph. My children are about to be born. Zarek will take me back. You will still be that pitiful woman dragged away during the ceremony. While I will be the one standing above everyone. Everyone. I didn't respond.

There was no need to interrupt her dying illusion. The obsidian shells began to shake, leaking a strange golden light. Zarek, look, they are coming. Our legacy is here. He didn't even look at her. To him, she was already a ghost. His presence was overwhelming. A predator waiting for its prize. Zarek, tell her. Tell Allara how powerful our children will be. I simply watched the cracks spread like a curse. We were ready. The moment of reckoning was finally here. Yes, break free, my princes. Rule this world with your father. Thin lines of light seeped through like something forcing its way out. This wasn't a birth. It was an extraction. Roar. Zarek, what is it? Why are you so angry?

They are your sons. He isn't angry, Cecilia. He's hungry, and he's focused. What did you say? You're lying. You're just jealous of my glory. A small, wet hatchling tumbled out, struggling to breathe. Its body was covered in dark scales, a shadow of its father. My son. Look at him, Allara. He is a king. Zarek, what are you doing? Be gentle with him. She still thought this was a beginning. She was wrong. The air didn't smell like life anymore. It smelled like a slaughterhouse. The clock is ticking, Cecilia, but not for your coronation. The blood dead of two lifetimes was about to be collected, and she was the first one on his list. I stood in the shadows, watching the end begin.

The air was thick with the scent of impending death. The first shell cracked. Cecilia thought it was the start of her glory. She was wrong. Finally, my glory is born. Look at the light, Zarek. A male, devoid of any trace of emotion. That's fine. A son is strong, just like you, Zarek. He will be a king. Another male. Another disappointment, hidden behind Zarek's frozen mask. Look. Two sons. Our lineage will be unstoppable in the human lands. She couldn't hear the warning in his silence. She only saw her own greed. The final hope. Or the final nail in her coffin. The air grew heavy. Three warriors. Zarek, I have given you an army. We will return. They will all kneel before us.

No one can stop the black dragon's blood. But Zarek didn't want warriors. He wanted a sacrifice for the dragon god. I knew what would happen next. I had seen this nightmare once before. Claim them, my lord. Show them their father's power and love. He moved, not with love, but with cold, calculated cruelty. Zarek, what are you doing? Why are you raising your hand? No, my son, why? Why are you doing this? Useless trash. I have no need for more rivals in my kingdom. To a monster, even his own blood is just fuel for the fire. This wasn't the future you promised. You said we would be kings. The dragon god demands a daughter. You gave me nothing but garbage.

The bargain failed, and Cecilia's dream is now a bloody grave. It's time, Ira. The gap in his power is finally open. Yes, let the darkness consume itself. We strike now. It wasn't supposed to be like this. Please, no. Goodbye, sister. You chose the dragon. Now die with him. Our miracle is waiting in the stone lands. Don't look back. I will not be a sacrifice. I will be the end of this curse. Two lives, one chance to burn it all down and start again. Burn. Let everything that was rotten turn to ash. I stood in the shadows, a silent witness to the end of a nightmare I once called my life. Every drop of blood spilled today was a debt being repaid by the universe. I didn't come for revenge.

I came to watch them destroy themselves. For a heartbeat, Cecilia didn't react. Then, the silence was shattered. Zarek, what are you doing? Each strike was precise, efficient, and final. Their lives were extinguished in an instant. Flames rose from his claws, devouring them completely. Not even ash remained. No, stop it. Zarek, stop. Zarek, have you lost your mind? Those were our children. Our flesh and blood. Children? You call those failures children? What I needed was a female hatchling, and you gave me males. But they were strong. They were dragons. The dragon clans have no shortage of males. What use are they to me? They cannot carry the bloodline sacrifice. They are trash.

If you cannot give me what I need, then what use are you? What, what are you saying? I'm saying you're worthless. As my tribute bride, your only purpose was to give me a female heir, and you failed utterly and miserably. The dream she built on my suffering was finally crumbling into dust. And Zarek, in his arrogance, was exposing his only weakness. Just kill me then. Killing you is too easy. You will witness your own worthlessness. This is it. The moment I've been waiting for. While he is blinded by his own rage, I will strike. The end of the black dragon begins now. I stood in the shadows, watching the end of her reign. The blood on the floor was the price of her ambition.

Cecilia was no longer the proud lady I once knew. Zarek looked down at her, his eyes filled with nothing but disgust. So you might as well join them. Only then did she understand. This was the end. No. No, please, Zarek. I can still give birth. Next time, it will be a female. I swear. Next time? You produce three males in your first clutch. Zara, help me, please. We're sisters. You have to help me. Sisters? When you switched the lots, did you remember we were sisters? You pushed me towards Silas just to save yourself. Did being sisters matter to you then? When you mocked me for being taken by Corbin. When you called me worthless, did you remember we were sisters?

And now that you're about to die, you suddenly remember that we share the same blood? Her lips trembled, but no words came out. It's too late. Something inside her broke completely. Lara, you bitch, I'll kill you. I'll come back again, and when I do, I'll kill you before anything else happens. I stepped back without answering her. Zarek had no patience left for her madness. The past was finally burning to ashes. She had chosen her path long ago. I didn't need to see the end to know it was over. The gold she craved would be her only witness. My journey continues, but hers ends here. Justice is a cold blade, and it has finally struck. Goodbye, Cecilia. In this life, and the next.

In my previous life, she envied me and killed me. In this life, she thought she could take everything for herself. You really think you will get another chance? What do you mean? Answer me, Alara. There is nothing left to explain. Zarek didn't care about her, please. To him, she was just a failed tool. The bloodline backlash had made him a monster without mercy. No, Zarek, please, I can still give you... He glanced at me once, saying nothing. Then, the judgment fell. No. A scream tore through the cavern. Then silence. Then there was only silence. Don't look, Alara. I didn't resist. For the first time, I felt safe. Corbin, I am not afraid. It's over now. I am happy. Truly happy. I know.

I needed to see the end of my nightmare with my own eyes. She fell harder than she ever imagined. It was nothing more than the ending she had chosen for herself. Cecilia was dead. This time, it's final. Alara, why are you looking at me like that? Nothing. Just thinking how lucky I am. But the danger wasn't gone. Zarek was becoming more unstable. We cannot stay here. Zarek has lost his mind. He just lost his wife. I won't let him set his eyes on mine. Your wife? We are going back to the stone dragon territory. Now. He wanted to take me home. Away from this death trap. No more rebirth. No more second chances for her. While I am still alive and finally free. The stone clan will protect you.

I will protect you. I believe you, Corbin. A new chapter was beginning. Toward a future that Cecilia could never steal from me. The real miracle is just beginning. Leaving the black dragon's lair felt like waking from a long, bloody nightmare. Revenge was done. Cecilia was gone. And for the first time, I could breathe. Corbin was right there, my silent guardian, ready to start a new life with me. We're almost at the border, Corbin. We're finally free. Yes, Elara. We are. Corbin, what's happening? Corbin! Is it your stomach? Are you poisoned? Speak to me. I'm... I'm alright, Elara. Don't worry. You're vomiting like this. We need to find a healer immediately. It's not poison.

I'm just pregnant. What did you just say? You're... What? I am carrying our children, Elara. But you're male. This is impossible. I must be dreaming. I truly thought I had heard him wrong. A male dragon? Pregnant? Sit down, Elara. Let me explain everything to you. In the dragon world, males are capable of carrying dragon eggs themselves. But it requires an enormous amount of strength and life energy. That's why almost no dragon is willing to take on that burden. They prefer human women to suffer for them, don't they? Yes. They use you, then they handle the incubation afterward. Elara, I've been waiting for the right time to tell you this.

I couldn't bear to let you suffer through pregnancy again. You did this because of my fear? I know you're afraid of dragon eggs. So I decided I would do it. He took the hell that belonged to me and carried it himself. Whether they are male or female, they will be our children. And I will love them all the same. Elara. Thank you, Corbin. For everything. So when the time comes, you have to take very good care of me. I promise I will be by your side every single second. I thought I was saved by a dragon, but I was saved by love. Finally, we are home. Rest now, Corbin. In this life, I don't have to be a sacrifice anymore. I have a protector, a partner, and a future. This is our story.

A story of dragon sacrifice and a new hope. We finally return to the Stone Dragon Clan's territory. A place that felt like a true sanctuary. Corbin, I promise I will take good care of you. I trust you, Elara. More than anyone else. I meant every word. I won't let anything hurt you again. Being with you is all the protection I need. At that moment, I felt a heavy responsibility, but also a strange sense of peace. The journey was long, but home was finally within reach. Corbin introduced me to his people. I was prepared for judgment, but I found none. This is Elara. She is the one I have chosen to protect with my life. None of them looked at me with contempt.

They only saw Corbin's choice as something worthy of respect. Welcome home, child. We honor the sacrifice our leader has made for you. Thank you, Elder. I will do my best to support him. It was so different here. They treated his pregnancy not as a weakness, but as a rare and difficult strength. See? You are one of us now. In human form, his pregnancy was almost impossible to notice. But I knew the truth. Drink this, Corbin. It will help you regain your strength. You've been working too hard for me, Ella. You should rest too. I can't rest while you're carrying this burden alone. Let me do this. Only when he shifted into his true form could I faintly see the change.

His belly had become slightly rounder. It was a miracle and a weight all at once. Does it hurt today? He always tried to calm me down, even when he was the one in pain. I wanted everything to be perfect for him. Every blanket, every pillow. As the day of his delivery drew closer, I became more and more nervous. Ella, breathe. We are safe here. Everything will be fine. How can you be so calm? You're the one going through this. Because I've waited a long time for this moment. For us? A thought I had buried for a long time suddenly rose again. Corbin, the more I think about it, the stranger it feels. You knew me long before the offering ceremony, didn't you?

In my previous life, Corbin had never appeared at the ceremony. I was left to a fate of darkness and pain. No one came to save me. But this time, everything changed. You descended from the sky. You took me away in front of everyone. You gave me hope when I had none. Some things are meant to be different this time. Ella. Why? Why did you come for me this time? What do you know that I don't? I have always known you, Ella. In every life. In every dream. In every life? What does that mean? It means that at this time, I won't let the tragedy repeat itself. The mystery of our connection was deepening, but for the first time, I wasn't afraid of the truth.

The silence in the cave was heavy, broken only by the crackling of the flames and Corbin's labored breathing. He had been watching me for a long time, his dark gold eyes filled with a question I couldn't yet understand. Finally, he spoke, his voice so soft it was barely a whisper. Elara, if I hadn't appeared and taken you away from that altar, what would you have done? I didn't need to think. The memory of that despair was still etched into my soul. I would have jumped from the cliff. Then you did trust me, didn't you? Even when you didn't know why. His warmth flowed into me and suddenly his pupils flashed with a faint golden light.

Through his gaze, a door in my mind swung open, revealing a memory I had long forgotten. It started with a fall, a mistake made by a curious child. I was falling into the abyss, certain that my life was over before it had truly begun. But the impact never came. Instead, I felt the strength of ancient stone. It was him. Corbin in his true, magnificent form. He had saved me. He carried me back through the woods, his presence a silent shield against the shadows. Careful, little one. The forest is no place for a child alone. You're a dragon, a real dragon. And you are a very brave human. Go home now. I'll come back tomorrow. I'll bring you the best food from our village to thank you.

I promised him, I swore I would return. But fate had other plans. That very night the darkness claimed more than just the day. A high fever took hold of me. For three days and three nights, I hovered between life and death. Everyone thought I wouldn't make it. The village whispered of a curse. When the fever finally broke, the girl who woke up was not the same. I had forgotten everything. The fall, the cliff, and the dragon who had saved me. Why does my heart feel so heavy, like I've lost something important? The promise was broken. I never went back to the forest. I left him waiting in the shadows for years.

I lived a life of ignorance, never knowing that a dragon was watching over me from afar. But he never forgot. He waited through the centuries, through the cycles of life and death. The realization hit me like a physical blow. My voice trembled as I spoke. So I was right. Cecilia and I were able to be reborn because of you. I couldn't let you fall again, Ilara. Not after I found you. You were the one who gave us another chance, wasn't it? You traded your own safety for my life. I only wanted you to be free. I didn't expect the price to be so high. He had appeared at the ceremony to save me from my fate. He hadn't wanted me to suffer again. He had manipulated time itself.

A forbidden ritual to bring back the soul he had lost. But the ritual was imperfect. It brought back Cecilia too, and with her a new set of thorns. He simply hadn't expected Cecilia to willingly steal the miserable life that had once belonged to me. Two lives, woven together by a single promise made by a child and kept by a dragon. He had given everything to rewrite my story. Now it was my turn to protect his. Rest now my dragon, I will be the shield you were for me. The truth was a blade to my heart. I made a wish to the dragon god. The prize was that. I would never be able to fly again. A dragon who could no longer fly. Was that still a dragon? For me, you gave up the sky?

For you, the sky is nothing compared to a lifetime. All these years, you were waiting for me to remember. To fulfill the promise we made as children? Hey, Lara. Corbin, what's wrong? I think the hatchlings are coming. The moment of destiny had arrived. Corbin, what can I do? Tell me what to do. I had never seen a dragon lay eggs. I'm here. I'm not leaving you. Just... stay with me. I will. I'll hold you through it all. Every low groan felt like a crack in my own soul. Breathe, Corbin. Just breathe. And then, the miracle happened. Three white eggs, plain yet divine. They're... they're beautiful. So different from the darkness Cecilia brought forth. Corbin, Corbin, look at me. Are they...

safe? Yes, they are perfect. You did it. Are you all right? Please tell me you're okay. I am tired. So tired. He gave up the sky to give us a home. Now it is my turn to be the shield. You will grow up in a world of love, not blood. I will protect this peace with everything I have. Our new chapter begins here. No more running. No more fear. I am Alara, the guardian of the stone dragon's legacy. The morning light felt heavy as I watched Corbin struggle for every breath. My heart ached for the sacrifice he made. Alara, don't look at me with such sadness. How can I not? You gave up the sky for me. I'm fine. It's only that I won't be able to take you flying through the sky anymore.

Our eggs will also need the others to help incubate them. I am too weak now. It doesn't matter. Corbin, as long as you're alive and well, that's enough for me. We entrusted the three eggs to your siblings. They will be safe, I promise. Everything went smoothly during those quiet days of waiting. He suffered so much for our future. I will never let that sacrifice be in vain. Today is the day. The day our destiny finally changes. Stay back. Give them space to breathe. Will they be healthy? Will they survive? Corbin insisted on being here. He wanted to see his children enter the world. You made it, brother. Just in time. Then, the first shell cracked. A sound that echoed through my very soul.

Female hatchling. Gods, it's a female dragon. Before we could catch our breath, when the third egg broke, it was still female. Three dragon eggs. Three female hatchlings. Another female. This is impossible. It was something the dragon clans had never dared to imagine. A miracle born from love. We did it, Ellara. We really did it. Yes, my love. Our children will grow up in a world of freedom. Just then, dark clouds gathered across the sky. A tremendous presence descended. Corbin. Ellara. You have brought hope and revelation to the dragon clans. True female hatchlings are born from the willingness of male dragons to carry them. Receive my blessing. Your sacrifice shall be rewarded.

Corbin shall fly again, and Ellara shall share his life and fate. From this day forward, you shall live and die together. I watched in awe as his wings unfurled once more, stronger than ever before. Come with me, Ellara. Let's reclaim the sky. To the ends of the world, Corbin. I am yours. He swept me into his arms and rose into the sky, carrying me above everything. On, we were no longer bound by chains, but by the life we chose for ourselves. We are the heart of the stone dragon clan. We are hope. Our story is just beginning. Together forever.