Reyla and Aenys sat in the study, discussing the latest developments regarding the war. They needed to deliberate on their next moves and decide who would be deployed to the front lines. "The elves are advancing rapidly; we must find a way to stall them," Aenys stated gravely. "A dragon needs to be dispatched. Our soldiers will fight with far greater resolve and fearlessness knowing a dragon stands beside them." Reyla’s request was reasonable, yet a critical problem remained: all other dragons were actively engaged in combat elsewhere, leaving only two available—Alex and Baelon. Both had remained behind primarily because they were heirs, kept out of harm's way as a precaution. However, as the elven forces intensified their push, capitalizing on their advantage within the dense forests, Aenys and Reyla were forced to make a definitive choice.One of the two had to be sent. "I would have preferred to send Corlis, but that is impossible; operations at the Dragon Keep are far too demandin

Alex continued through the forest, utilizing his superhuman senses to pinpoint and eradicate any remaining Slaughter Ants. Drawing upon knowledge from his past life, he could have marched directly toward their primary hive, but clearing the immediate surroundings remained the top priority.Detecting rapid movement approaching his position, Alex drew his black sword and assumed a battle-ready stance. Five deer burst through the thickets in quick succession, fleeing in terror. Narrowing his eyes, Alex lunged forward, weaving cleanly between the panicking animals. As a Slaughter Ant pursuing the herd lunged at him, he ducked slightly to evade its snapping mandibles. Imbuing his black sword with Blood Flames, he severed its head in a single fluid motion. The entire engagement lasted less than five seconds.Alex had grown taller and noticeably more muscular. He wore a fitted black t-shirt that defined his build, and his hair—longer than before—was swept back loosely rather than tied. Durin

Godrey watched the embrace between Alex and Laena, his chest heavy with boiling resentment. Being of the same age as Laena and serving as her private instructor, he found the boy's presence deeply irritating. Although Alex belonged to the prestigious dragon riders, he remained a human—a species Godrey fundamentally despised."Are the ants truly gone?" Laena asked, her voice laced with anticipation."I settled the matter permanently this time," Alex answered smoothly. "The Queen has been eliminated. The kingdom will no longer be plagued by the Slaughter Ants."Laena's eyes sparkled with genuine delight. "I can hardly believe you accomplished all of that on your own! You are truly remarkable, Ali."Alex raised an eyebrow, amused. "Ali?"Laena giggled softly. "Ali—a nickname for Alex. It sounds much gentler to the ear.""Very well, if you prefer it, you may call me Ali," Alex replied smoothly.Godrey narrowed his emerald-green eyes, radiating silent animosity. Alex registered the intense

Early in the morning, Alex prepared his belongings with meticulous care. The time for his departure had finally arrived, and an uncontainable thrill coursed through him as he contemplated his next objective. Descending to the grand hall, he found the entire royal family gathered to bid him farewell—with one notable exception. Laena was nowhere to be seen. Although Alex feigned indifference, a small part of him had anticipated her presence.Releasing a quiet breath, Alex stepped forward with a composed smile. Queen Mylia dabbed her tears with a silk handkerchief—a display of emotion that secretly bewildered Alex, though he maintained his stoic expression. Elrond cleared his throat, offering a hushed, overdue gesture: "Thank you for saving my life." Alex merely nodded in acknowledgement without dwelling on the matter.King Zephyr approached him with grave dignity. "You have rendered great service to our realm during your stay. We extend our deepest gratitude.""The honor was entirely mi

Alex povI pondered the words Instructor Kevin had shared with me. A war was looming on the horizon—a conflict that might just yield an indispensable opportunity."Ed, are you alright?" Gerard approached, snapping me out of my deep contemplation."Yes, I am fine," I replied, offering a reassuring smile."Shall we head out?"I nodded and pulled an officially approved leave permit from my inner pocket, presenting it to him. Gerard stared at the document in sheer disbelief, snatching it from my hands. "How on earth did you manage to get this?" he asked urgently."Consider it one of my many talents," I boasted lightly.My mind rewound to the moment Instructor Kevin handed me the permit. I had told him, *'If war is truly coming, I wish to spend one last evening out with my friends.'* To my surprise, the notoriously strict instructor replied, *'Very well, I shall approve it. Have your fill of enjoyment, for this coming conflict will bear no resemblance to the minor skirmishes you have witne