Chapter 41 - 40 - Black Fire and Crimson Scales
Silence cloaked the forest like a thin fog holding the world’s breath. No sound, no movement—as if time itself had frozen to witness the silent duel between two beings who were never meant to stand as equals: a woman and a dragon.
Ashtoria stood motionless, her crimson eyes locked onto the sky, where the winged giant hovered—graceful, yet menacing. Their gazes clashed—sharp, cold, and unwavering. Like two flames trying to consume each other without ever touching.
Then—
A voice pierced the stillness—not through her ears, but directly into her mind. Heavy, echoing, and clearly not human.
**"Human... are you the one who stole my child?"**
Ashtoria didn’t move. Only her eyes narrowed slightly, her breath steady but deep. She answered without speaking, her thoughts cutting back like a sharpened blade.
"I’m not interested in your child." Her voice was cold, flat—like a sword freshly drawn. "But because of you, this man... is gravely wounded. Don’t expect me to let you leave here unscathed."
Another pause followed. But only for a moment.
The voice returned—this time accompanied by a harsh, guttural laugh that echoed as if from the depths of the earth.
**"Arrogant human. Answer me truthfully—where is my egg?! If you do not tell me, I will destroy you!"**
Ashtoria gave a faint smile—not warm, but sharp and scornful. She raised her chin ever so slightly before replying, her voice like an icy dagger.